maybe we can

USAGE SUMMARY

'maybe we can' is both correct and commonly used in written English.
It is a common phrase used to express possibility or uncertainty. Example: "Maybe we can go out for dinner tonight?" Sarah suggested, looking at her husband hopefully. In this example, 'maybe we can' is used to suggest the possibility of going out for dinner, but it is uncertain if it will actually happen.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Maybe we can help.

The New Yorker

Maybe we can share".

The New York Times

Maybe we can collaborate!

The New Yorker

"Maybe we can do better".

The New York Times - Science

"Then maybe we can help".

The New York Times - Magazine

Maybe we can change it.

The New York Times - Magazine

Maybe we can move then".

The New York Times

"Maybe we can get £500.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Maybe we can win overseas".

The New York Times - Sports

"Maybe we can drive out of it".

The New Yorker

Maybe we can make some goshdarned progress.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "maybe we can" to introduce suggestions or possibilities, especially when seeking collaboration or agreement. It softens the proposal and invites others to participate in the decision.

Common error

While versatile, "maybe we can" can sound too informal in professional or academic writing. Opt for stronger, more decisive language, such as "we propose" or "it is possible to", to maintain a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "maybe we can" primarily functions as a modal phrase, used to express possibility, suggestion, or uncertainty about a future action. This aligns with Ludwig AI which validates the correctness and common usage of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "maybe we can" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to suggest possibilities or plans in a tentative manner. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It is most prevalent in News & Media contexts. While versatile, remember to adjust the formality based on the context: opting for more decisive language like "we propose" in formal settings. Consider alternatives such as "perhaps we could" or "possibly we might" depending on the nuance you wish to convey. "Maybe we can" is a helpful tool for collaborative suggestion, just ensure its register aligns with your audience and writing objectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perhaps we could

More tentative and polite, using "could" instead of "can".

possibly we might

Introduces a slightly lower probability and uses "might" for added uncertainty.

it's possible that we can

More formal and explicitly states the possibility.

we could potentially

Highlights the potential aspect of the action.

we might be able to

Emphasizes the ability to perform the action, with a degree of uncertainty.

conceivably we could

Suggests that something is within the realm of possibility, even if unlikely.

we may be able to

A more formal and cautious way of expressing possibility.

it's conceivable that we could

A very formal way of suggesting a possibility.

we should consider

Shifts focus to suggesting consideration rather than stating a possibility.

how about we

More informal, direct, and action-oriented suggestion.

FAQs

How can I use "maybe we can" in a sentence?

"Maybe we can" is used to suggest a possibility or a plan that is not yet certain. For example, "Maybe we can try a different approach" suggests an alternative solution that is worth considering.

What's a more formal alternative to "maybe we can"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "it is possible that we could", "we might consider", or "we may be able to". These options convey a similar meaning with a higher degree of formality.

Is it grammatically correct to say "maybe we can"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "maybe we can" is a common and acceptable way to express a possibility or suggestion in English.

What's the difference between "perhaps we can" and "maybe we can"?

Both phrases convey a similar meaning, but "perhaps we can" is often perceived as slightly more formal or refined than "maybe we can". The choice depends on the context and desired tone.