B1adverb2K

UK/["/ˈpɒsəbli/"]/US/["/ˈpɑːsəbli/"]/

Meaning of Possibly

used to say that something might exist, happen or be true, but you are not certain

In simple words: maybe or maybe not; not sure

Possibly in a sentence

  • It could possibly rain tomorrow, so take an umbrella.
  • She is possibly the best candidate for the job.
  • We might possibly finish the project earlier than expected.
  • He possibly left his keys at home.
  • There is possibly a misunderstanding in the instructions.

How to use Possibly

Use 'possibly' when you want to express uncertainty or doubt about something. It's generally neutral, suitable for both spoken and written contexts, but avoid it in very formal writing where you might prefer words like 'potentially'.

Grammar pattern

possibly + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'possible' with a little twist of doubt, like a question mark at the end.

Related words

Collocations with Possibly

  • possibly true
  • possibly available
  • possibly dangerous

Synonyms for Possibly

Opposites of Possibly

Common mistakes with Possibly

  • 'Possibly' is often confused with 'probably'—they mean different things.
  • Learners may omit 'possibly' in sentences where it's needed.
  • Some learners incorrectly use 'possibly' with the gerund form (e.g., 'possibly going').

Possibly appears in

Possibly in other languages

More words like Possibly

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Frequently asked questions about Possibly

What does Possibly mean?

maybe or maybe not; not sure

What is the definition of Possibly?

used to say that something might exist, happen or be true, but you are not certain

How do you use Possibly in a sentence?

It could possibly rain tomorrow, so take an umbrella.

Can you give another example of Possibly?

She is possibly the best candidate for the job.

What are synonyms for Possibly?

Common alternatives include perhaps.

What is the opposite of Possibly?

Opposite meanings include definitely, certainly.

What words go with Possibly?

It commonly pairs with possibly true, possibly available, possibly dangerous.

What are common mistakes when using Possibly?

'Possibly' is often confused with 'probably'—they mean different things. Learners may omit 'possibly' in sentences where it's needed. Some learners incorrectly use 'possibly' with the gerund form (e.g., 'possibly going').

How do you pronounce Possibly?

US: /["/ˈpɑːsəbli/"]/, UK: /["/ˈpɒsəbli/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Possibly?

Use 'possibly' when you want to express uncertainty or doubt about something. It's generally neutral, suitable for both spoken and written contexts, but avoid it in very formal writing where you might prefer words like 'potentially'.

What CEFR level is Possibly?

"Possibly" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.