maybe not

Perhaps I'm wrong

A response that hedges or reverses a previous statement, suggestion, or assumption.

It softens outright rejection: Want to try that new restaurant? Maybe not—I heard it's expensive.

It can signal reconsideration: I thought I'd go for a run, but maybe not.

The phrase often stands alone as a complete thought, trailing off to imply unstated reasons.

Related

let me think · wavering · skeptical · second guessing · reconsidering · unsure · on the fence · nah · iffy · questionable · on second thought · pause · pump the brakes · reluctant · hedging · backpedaling · cold feet · think twice

Opposites
certainty of affirmation

maybe notdefinitely

With complete certainty

absolutely · certainly · yes · for sure · of course

certainty of denial

maybe notdefinitely not

Emphatic negative response

absolutely not · no way · certainly not · no · never

Family

may, not, maybe, mayhap, been, being, nought, nothing

Familiarity
Top 5,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Everyday, not technical · Rated G