possibly
adv.-
1 perhaps (adv.) A2 Elementaryused to say that something might be true or might happen.
indicates that a proposition is potentially true or that an event is likely to occur, though certainty is absent.
ExampleIt will possibly rain this afternoon, so you should take an umbrella.
ExampleThe archaeological team suggested that the ruins could possibly date back to the Bronze Age, though carbon dating is required for confirmation.
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2 ability or feasibility (adv.) B1 Intermediateused with 'can' or 'could' to emphasize if something is able to be done.
used to indicate the limits of ability or feasibility, often appearing in negative constructions or questions to emphasize difficulty.
ExampleI cannot possibly finish all this work before the weekend.
ExampleThe director wondered how the crew could possibly manage such a complex set change in under three minutes without compromising safety.
UsageOften follows 'can', 'could', or 'cannot' for emphasis.
- at all
- by any means
From possible + -ly.