arguably
gb/ˈɑɹɡjuəbli/ us/ˈɑɹɡjuəbli/
C1
English
~ 7300
Senses
0 senses
adverb
C1
property
1
it can reasonably be said
Used before a statement to say that good reasons can be given for it, but some people may not agree.
Usage pattern:
arguably, [clause] / [be] arguably [adjective/noun phrase]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes use "arguably" when they want to show very strong personal opinion, similar to "definitely". However, "arguably" actually softens the statement and shows that it can be discussed or disagreed with. Another common mistake is putting it in the wrong place in the sentence; the most natural positions are at the beginning ("Arguably, ...") or before the main adjective or noun phrase ("arguably the best", "is arguably the best").
Synonyms
perhaps (More general and less focused on giving reasons; can sound less strong than "arguably".)
|
possibly (Emphasizes chance rather than the idea that reasons can be given.)
|
debatably (Very close in meaning, but slightly more formal and often used for clearly controversial points.)
|
it could be said (Longer phrase; often sounds more careful or polite than "arguably".)
Antonyms
undoubtedly (States that something is certain and not open to argument, the opposite of a claim that invites debate.)
|
certainly (Expresses strong confidence and lack of doubt, rather than something open to argument.)
Collocations
arguably the best
|arguably the most
|arguably one of
|could arguably be
|is arguably
|was arguably
Themes
communication
|opinions
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- She is arguably the most influential writer of her generation.
- This was arguably the turning point of the entire campaign.
- The new law is arguably too strict for first-time offenders.
- He is arguably more experienced than anyone else on the team.
- That decision was arguably a mistake, given what we know now.
Learner examples
- He is arguably the best player on the team.
- This is arguably the most important question in the test.
- The movie is arguably too long for young children.
- It is arguably a bad idea to drive in this storm.
Grammar
Dictionary form
arguably
IPA
GB/ˈɑɹɡjuəbli/
US/ˈɑɹɡjuəbli/
Syllables & stress
ar - gu - ably (3 syllables)
Stress on 1st syllable (ar)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: arguably
- Plural: arguablies
Word family
Expressions
No expressions linked to this entry yet.