# plausibly

/ˈpɫɔzəbɫi/ (US) · /plˈɔːzəbli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/plausibly
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

in a way that sounds true or believable, even if you are not completely sure. You use it when something could easily be true.

For teachers: in a way that appears believable or reasonable, without asserting certainty. Often introduces a tentative explanation or hypothesis.

## Examples

- She plausibly says she forgets his name.
- The student plausibly explains that his laptop died right before the deadline, so the teacher gives him extra time.
- The historian plausibly traces the unrest to rising grain prices, though surviving records are too thin to prove the link beyond doubt.

## Synonyms

convincingly, believably, credibly

## Antonyms

unbelievably

## Usage notes

- Often placed before the main verb or at the start of a clause when offering a tentative explanation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.