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maybe

adv. · n.
US //ˈmeɪbi// UK //mˈeɪbiː// maybe
  1. 1 perhaps (adv.)
    A1 Beginner

    used to say that something might happen or might be true.

    used to indicate that something is possible or probable but not certain.

    Example

    Maybe we can go to the park if the rain stops later.

    Example

    Maybe the initial projections were too optimistic, given that the market has shifted so significantly in the last quarter.
  2. 2 making a suggestion (adv.)
    A2 Elementary

    you use this to suggest something politely without being too direct.

    used as a pragmatic marker to soften a suggestion or request, making it less assertive.

    Example

    Maybe you should call him and ask for more information.

    Example

    Maybe we should reconsider the current strategy before committing the remainder of the annual budget to this project.
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  1. 3 an uncertain answer (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal

    an answer that is not 'yes' or 'no'.

    a response or status indicating uncertainty or a lack of commitment to a binary choice.

    Example

    I asked if she was coming to the party, but she only gave me a maybe.

    Example

    The client's response was a frustrating maybe, leaving the production team unable to book the necessary equipment for the shoot.
Origin

From an ellipsis of Middle English it may be, equivalent to may + be. Compare mayhap.

Idioms1 entry

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