Langimage
English

possibly

|pos/si/bly|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈpɑːsəbli/

🇬🇧

/ˈpɒsəbli/

(possible)

capable of being done

Base FormNounAdverb
possiblepossibilitypossibly
Etymology
Etymology Information

'possibly' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'possibilis,' where 'posse' meant 'to be able.'

Historical Evolution

'possibilis' transformed into the Old French word 'possible,' and eventually became the modern English word 'possible' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'capable of being done,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'perhaps or maybe.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a manner that is not certain or definite; perhaps.

She will possibly attend the meeting tomorrow.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35