A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Maybe" in French
The French word for 'maybe,' used to express uncertainty or possibility politely.
Peut-être
puh-TET-ruhneutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use 'peut-être' when you're not sure about something, like if you can meet a friend later or if a shop is open. It's a polite way to hedge your bets.
Alternatives
- ProbablementUse this when you mean 'probably,' which is stronger than 'maybe.'
- Sans douteThis actually means 'without a doubt,' so it's the opposite of 'maybe'!
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing the 't' at the end
The final 'e' in 'peut-être' is silent, so don't pronounce it.
Confusing with 'peux'
'Peux' is 'can' (je peux, tu peux), while 'peut' is 'can' (il/elle/on peut).
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
How to say maybe in French casually?
'Peut-être' is perfectly fine for casual use. You might also hear 'ouais, peut-être' which is even more relaxed.
What's the difference between peut-être and probablement?
'Peut-être' means 'maybe,' indicating a possibility. 'Probablement' means 'probably,' suggesting a higher likelihood.
Can I use peut-être when I'm not sure about a plan?
Yes, absolutely. Saying 'On pourrait y aller, peut-être?' (We could go, maybe?) is a common and polite way to suggest something uncertain.
