maybe Meaning & Definition
What Does Maybe Mean?
Maybe is used as an adverb meaning Perhaps, possibly. It is also used to mean Perhaps that is true. As an adjective, it means Possible; uncertain. As a noun, it means Something that is possibly true.
Word Facts for Maybe
| Part of speech | adverb, adjective, noun |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ˈmeɪ.bi/ |
| Syllables | 2 |
| Synonyms | peradventure, perchance and perhaps |
| Plural | maybes |
| Comparative / superlative | more maybe, most maybe |
Maybe Definition (Adverb)
- Perhaps, possibly.
A small extra effort now can maybe save you much work later.
- Perhaps that is true .
- Certainly.
Maybe not the best idea.
Maybe as an Adjective
- Possible; uncertain.
Maybe as a Noun
- Something that is possibly true.
- An answer that shows neither agreement nor disagreement.
The results of the poll were inconclusive. We got two yeses, three nos, and four maybes.
- A future event that may or may not happen.
About your raise: it's a big maybe.
Synonyms of Maybe
Maybe synonyms and antonyms →Maybe in a Sentence
A small extra effort now can maybe save you much work later.
Maybe I was imagining it, but I could swear that the dog understood what I was saying.
Maybe not the best idea.
The results of the poll were inconclusive. We got two yeses, three nos, and four maybes.
About your raise: it's a big maybe.
Word Forms & Grammar
maybe (not comparable)
maybe (comparative more maybe, superlative most maybe)
maybe (plural maybes)
Words That Rhyme With Maybe
Origin of Maybe
From an ellipsis of Middle English it may be, equivalent to may + be. Compare mayhap.
Pronouncing Maybe
The standard pronunciation of maybe is /ˈmeɪ.bi/, spoken in 2 syllables, with the main stress on the first syllable (meɪ).
Frequently Asked Questions About Maybe
Is maybe an adverb or an adjective?
Maybe is mainly used as an adverb, but it can also be used as an adjective and a noun.
What is another word for maybe?
You can replace maybe with words such as peradventure, perchance and perhaps. See the full list of maybe synonyms and antonyms.
What is the plural of maybe?
The plural of maybe is maybes.
What are the comparative and superlative forms of maybe?
The comparative form is more maybe and the superlative form is most maybe.