maybe
Translation
perhaps, possibly
Examples
Maybe we can go to the park later.
Perhaps we can go to the park later.
"Are you coming to the party?" "Maybe."
"Are you coming to the party?" "Maybe."
Grammar Patterns
((at start of sentence)) expressing possibility Maybe it will rain tomorrow.
((as a standalone answer)) expressing uncertainty "Are you hungry?" "Maybe."
Similar Words
Synonyms: perhaps, possibly; Antonyms: definitely, certainly
Etymology
From Middle English 'may be', literally 'it may be'. A compound of 'may' and 'be'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as the two words 'may' and 'be' joined together, expressing the possibility that something 'may be' true.