Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Perhaps; possibly: Used to indicate that something is uncertain or not definitely known. It expresses a degree of doubt or suggests an alternative possibility.
   • By chance: Used to suggest something might happen or be true without certainty.

Usage

• Position in a sentence: "Maybe" is typically placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause, or before a verb. It modifies the entire statement.
• Function: It softens a statement, making it less definite. It is used to suggest, speculate, or express polite hesitation.

Examples

• At the beginning of a sentence:
  • Maybe she will call tomorrow. (It is possible she will call tomorrow.)
  • Maybe we should leave earlier. (I am suggesting we consider leaving earlier.)
• Before a verb:
  • We may possibly run into them at the concert. (It is a chance we will meet them.)
  • He maybe knows the answer. (It is possible he knows.)
• As a short, standalone response:
  • "Are you coming to the party?" "Maybe." (I am not sure yet.)

Advanced Usage

• "Maybe so": Used to acknowledge a possibility without full agreement.
  • "I think it will rain." "Maybe so, but the forecast said sunny."
• "Maybe not": Used to express doubt about a negative possibility or to politely disagree.
  • "Is this a good idea?" "Maybe not."
• Contrast with "may be": "Maybe" (one word) is an adverb. "May be" (two words) is a verb phrase consisting of the modal verb "may" and the verb "be".
  • Maybe he is late. (Adverb: Perhaps he is late.)
  • He may be late. (Verb phrase: It is possible that he is late.)

Variants and Related Words

• Perhaps (adv.): A more formal synonym for "maybe".
• Possibly (adv.): Indicates a chance, often with a slightly higher degree of uncertainty than "maybe".
• Peradventure (adv., archaic): By chance; perhaps. (e.g., )
• Conceivably (adv.): Used to say something can be imagined or believed to be possible.

Synonyms

• Perhaps
• Possibly
• Potentially
• Perchance (literary/archaic)

Related Phrases

• It could be that...: A phrase introducing a possible explanation.
  • It could be that the train is delayed.
• There's a chance that...: Explicitly states a possibility exists.
  • There's a chance that we'll win.

Idioms

• Maybe, maybe not: A phrase expressing complete uncertainty or ambivalence.
  • "Will they offer you the job?" "Maybe, maybe not. I have no idea."

Adverb

1. by chance
   • perhaps she will call tomorrow
   • we may possibly run into them at the concert
   • it may peradventure be thought that there never was such a time