Maybe vs. Potentially — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 17, 2024
Maybe indicates a possibility or uncertainty, often used in everyday language to express that something might happen. Potentially indicates that something has the capacity or potential to happen, often used in more formal contexts to discuss future.
Difference Between Maybe and Potentially
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Maybe is an adverb used to express uncertainty or possibility in casual conversation. It implies that an event might occur, but there is no definite assurance. For example, "Maybe it will rain tomorrow." Potentially is also an adverb, but it suggests that something has the inherent capacity or potential to happen. It is often used in more formal or technical discussions about possibilities or risks. For example, "This project could potentially increase our revenue."
While maybe is more commonly used in everyday speech to convey simple uncertainty, potentially is used to discuss possibilities that involve a degree of potential or capacity, often implying a more analytical or evaluative perspective.
Maybe is direct and straightforward, often used to express doubt or hesitancy. Potentially is more formal and often used when discussing scenarios that require consideration of various factors or future developments.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Indicates possibility or uncertainty
Indicates potential or capacity to occur
Usage Context
Informal, everyday language
Formal, analytical, or technical contexts
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Implication
Simple possibility, no assurance
Capacity or likelihood based on potential
Example Sentence
"Maybe I'll go to the party."
"This plan could potentially succeed."
Tone
Casual
Formal
Compare with Definitions
Maybe
Indicates doubt or indecision.
Maybe I left my keys at home.
Potentially
Something has the capacity to happen.
This medication could potentially save lives.
Maybe
Expresses that something might happen.
Maybe we'll see a movie tonight.
Potentially
Evaluating possible outcomes.
There are potentially serious consequences to this decision.
Maybe
Dependent on certain conditions.
Maybe if it stops raining, we can go for a walk.
Potentially
Discusses possible future developments.
The new policy is potentially beneficial for the company.
Maybe
Perhaps; possibly
Maybe I won't go back
He was standing maybe 20 or 30 feet away
Potentially
Depends on certain factors being met.
The investment could potentially yield high returns.
Maybe
A mere possibility or probability
No ifs, buts, or maybes
Potentially
Inherent capability to develop.
This area has the potential to become a tourist hotspot.
Maybe
Used to indicate uncertainty or possibility
We should maybe take a different route. Maybe it won't rain.
Potentially
Capable of being but not yet in existence; latent or undeveloped
A potential problem.
A substance with many potential uses.
Maybe
An uncertainty
There are so many maybes involved in playing the stock market.
Potentially
(Grammar) Of, relating to, or being a verbal construction with auxiliaries such as may or can; for example, it may snow.
Maybe
An uncertain reply
It's better to receive a fast and honest no than a drawn-out maybe.
Potentially
The inherent ability or capacity for growth, development, or future success
An investment with a lot of potential.
A singer who has the potential to become a major star.
Maybe
Modifies a verb, indicating a lack of certainty: it may be (that)...
Maybe I was imagining it, but I could swear that the dog understood what I was saying.
Potentially
The possibility that something might happen or result from given conditions
A tense situation with the potential to turn into a riot.
Farming practices that increase the potential for the erosion of topsoil.
Maybe
Perhaps that is true expressing no commitment to a decision or a neutral viewpoint to a statement.
Potentially
See electric potential.
Maybe
Certainly.
Maybe not the best idea.
Potentially
See gravitational potential.
Maybe
Possible; uncertain.
Potentially
See magnetic potential.
Maybe
(informal) Something that is possibly true.
Potentially
(Grammar) A potential verb form.
Maybe
(informal) An answer that shows neither agreement nor disagreement.
The results of the poll were inconclusive. We got two yeses, three nos, and four maybes.
Potentially
In a manner showing much potential; with the possibility of happening in a given way.
Maybe
(informal) A future event that may or may not happen.
About your raise: it's a big maybe.
Potentially
(obsolete) Powerfully, strongly.
Maybe
Perhaps; possibly; peradventure.
Maybe the amorous count solicits her.
In a liberal and, maybe, somewhat reckless way.
Potentially
With power; potently.
Maybe
Possible; probable, but not sure.
Then add those maybe years thou hast to live.
Potentially
In a potential manner; possibly, not positively.
The duration of human souls is only potentially infinite.
Maybe
Possibility; uncertainty.
What they offer is mere maybe and shift.
Potentially
With a possibility of becoming actual;
Introducing possibly dangerous innovations
He is potentially dangerous
Potentially useful
Maybe
By chance;
Perhaps she will call tomorrow
We may possibly run into them at the concert
It may peradventure be thought that there never was such a time
Maybe
Offers a potential idea or option.
Maybe you should try restarting the computer.
Maybe
Non-committal response.
Maybe I can join you for lunch, I'll let you know.
Common Curiosities
Can maybe be used in formal writing?
Maybe is typically used in informal contexts; in formal writing, it’s better to use potentially or other similar terms.
Is potentially more certain than maybe?
Potentially implies a consideration of factors and a more analytical view, but it still does not guarantee certainty.
Is maybe used to express indecision?
Yes, maybe can express indecision or doubt about a decision or event.
What does potentially mean?
Potentially suggests that something has the capacity or potential to occur.
Can potentially be used to describe risks?
Yes, potentially is often used to discuss risks or possible negative outcomes.
What is an example of potentially in a sentence?
"This policy change could potentially benefit all employees."
Is maybe more suitable for everyday conversation?
Yes, maybe is more commonly used in everyday conversation.
Does potentially require a deeper analysis?
Yes, using potentially often involves considering various factors and the inherent capacity for something to occur.
What does maybe mean?
Maybe indicates a possibility or uncertainty about an event or action.
Can potentially indicate a positive outcome?
Yes, potentially can describe both positive and negative possible outcomes.
Is potentially used in scientific contexts?
Yes, potentially is often used in scientific, technical, and formal contexts to discuss possibilities.
Does maybe imply a higher chance than potentially?
Maybe implies a simple possibility without detailed consideration, while potentially involves an assessment of capability, not necessarily indicating a higher chance.
What is an example of maybe in a sentence?
"Maybe I'll take a day off next week."
Can both maybe and potentially be used to describe future events?
Yes, both can describe future events, but maybe is more casual, and potentially is more formal.
Can maybe and potentially be used interchangeably?
While they both indicate possibility, they are not always interchangeable due to their different connotations and levels of formality.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
