maybe
/'meibi:/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- 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
- 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