How to say 'maybe' in Chinese

也许 is a fixed adverb meaning 'maybe' or 'perhaps'. It's not built from smaller parts that carry separate meanings; it functions as a single unit to express uncertainty.

Use 也许 when you're not sure about something, like 'Maybe I'll go' or 'Perhaps it's true'. It's neutral in tone and works in both casual and slightly formal settings. English speakers often overuse '可能' (kěnéng) for 'maybe', but 也许 is more natural for expressing personal uncertainty.