Epistemic stance – indicating that something is possible but not certain (informal).

To introduce suggestions, tentative statements, or open‑ended proposals without committing certainty.

When making everyday decisions, offering informal advice, or presenting a low‑commitment option.

Casual conversation, text messaging, emails with friends/colleagues; rarely used in formal academic writing.

maybe

maybe

none

• maybe not
• maybe so
• maybe just

• perhaps (more formal)
• possibly (more tentative)

Using ‘maybe’ in formal academic writing where a more neutral term like ‘perhaps’ is preferred.

perhaps (formal equivalent), it might be that (heavy)

Learners often confuse the adverbial use of ‘maybe’ with its verb‑phrase form ‘may be’, which has different grammatical properties.

• Informal possibility markers

Conveys openness to possibility while keeping language informal and friendly; it signals willingness to consider alternatives without asserting certainty.

Softens proposals, invites negotiation or further discussion by signaling that the speaker’s stance remains tentative.

"Maybe we should …" – gentle suggestion cue

The chunk 'Maybe' is a simple and versatile adverb used to express uncertainty or possibility in informal contexts. It is essential for learners to understand its usage in everyday conversations and casual written communication. The chunk is used to soften statements, proposals, or questions, making them sound less assertive and more open to discussion. Learners should be aware of its informal nature and avoid using it in formal or academic settings.

Maybe → Perhaps → It might be advisable to