but maybe more

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but maybe more" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest that there is a possibility of an additional quantity or extent beyond what has been mentioned. Example: "I think I can run five miles today, but maybe more if I feel good."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The actual story is more nuanced, but maybe more alarming.

The New Yorker

But maybe more importantly we share common values".

The Guardian - Opinion

But maybe more importantly, it might actually be something that changes the progression of the disease.

Cornell University

Mr. Strauss-Kahn appeared relaxed, she said, "but maybe more than he really was".

The New York Times

Twenty years ago this prize would have been sycophantic but maybe more justified.

The Guardian

20 years ago this prize would have been sycophantic but maybe more justified.

The Economist

She's clearly got groove, but maybe more suited to a party than a ballroom.

The Washington Post

It paralyses the audience – but, maybe more importantly, also the presenter.

The Guardian

"The first's always the most difficult, but maybe more will follow.

The Guardian - Sport

"We are bullish on all these countries for the long term, but maybe more cautious for the short term".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"We don't want to score one, but two, maybe more.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but maybe more" to introduce an alternative that is not necessarily certain but represents a potential increase or greater significance than the preceding statement. This helps add nuance and possibility to your writing.

Common error

While "but maybe more" is acceptable, excessive use can make your writing sound hesitant. In formal writing, consider stronger alternatives like "however, it is likely that..." or "furthermore..." to convey more confidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but maybe more" functions as a conjunctive phrase, linking a previous statement to a potential addition or alternative. Ludwig examples illustrate its role in adding uncertainty and possibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but maybe more" is a grammatically correct and very commonly used conjunctive phrase to introduce an alternative or addition, implying uncertainty but suggesting a potentially greater extent than the initial statement. As Ludwig AI validates, it's acceptable across various contexts, with a primary presence in news and media, academia and science. While versatile, it's essential to consider the formality of the context, opting for stronger alternatives in situations requiring a more assertive tone. When used appropriately, it adds a layer of nuance and possibility to written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but possibly more

Replaces "maybe" with "possibly", suggesting a similar degree of uncertainty but a slightly stronger likelihood.

but possibly even more

Combines "possibly" and "even", reinforcing both the likelihood and increased intensity.

but perhaps even more

Emphasizes the additive aspect and introduces a higher degree or intensity than initially considered.

but quite possibly more

Strengthens the possibility with the addition of "quite", suggesting a higher confidence.

but potentially more

Highlights the potential for a greater quantity or extent.

or even more

Omits the "but" and "maybe", offering a more direct additive suggestion.

but conceivably more

Introduces a sense of conceivability to the potential increase.

if not more

Poses a stronger challenge to the initial statement, implying the likelihood of a greater extent.

but perhaps a bit more

Introduces a slight understatement with "a bit", softening the additive suggestion.

if anything, more

Indicates that the reality is likely to be an increase rather than a decrease.

FAQs

How can I use "but maybe more" in a sentence?

Use "but maybe more" to suggest an alternative possibility that could be of greater quantity, degree, or importance than what was initially stated. For instance, "I expect to finish three chapters, "but maybe more" if I have time".

What are some alternatives to "but maybe more"?

Alternatives to "but maybe more" include phrases like "but possibly more", "or even more", or "if not more". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "but maybe more" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "but maybe more" might sound slightly informal for some formal contexts. Consider using stronger, more direct alternatives to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "but maybe more" and "but certainly more"?

"But maybe more" suggests uncertainty and possibility, while "but certainly more" indicates a high degree of confidence or assurance that the alternative is true. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects your level of certainty.