possibly

[ pos-uh-blee ]

adverb

1. perhaps; maybe:

   It may possibly rain today.

2. in a possible manner:

   She has all the money she can possibly use.

3. by any possibility:

   Could you possibly check this information for me?

possibly

/ ˈpɒsɪblɪ /

sentence substitute

1. 1. perhaps or maybe
   2. ( as sentence modifier )

      possibly he'll come

adverb

1. by any chance; at all

   he can't possibly come

Word History and Origins

Origin of possibly¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; possible + -ly

Example Sentences

He is sure to receive a fine, and possibly more severe punishment, in the coming days.

From Los Angeles Times

They are asking themselves how this could have possibly happened.

From Salon

“There have definitely been people who are like, ‘No, this cannot possibly be true,’” Griswold says.

From Science Magazine

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today, she said: "I think possibly there is an argument for pausing while this investigation takes its course, and maybe not airing it tonight."

From BBC

His far-reaching, avowedly disruptive proposals seem destined to have a major impact not just in the short term, but possibly well beyond.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• conceivably
• likely
• perhaps
• probably