arguably
/ˈɑːɡjuəbli/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Meaning · English
As can be supported or proven by sound logical deduction, evidence, and precedent, but without absolute certainty.
Adverb
Examples
In the early 1770s the bogey figure for opposition politicians was arguably not so much North in the Commons as Mansfield behind the curtain, the country's greatest lawyer (and another Caledonian to gratify the Scotophobes) keeping an irresolute Cabinet committed to waging war in America.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “arguably” mean?
As can be supported or proven by sound logical deduction, evidence, and precedent, but without absolute certainty.
Is “arguably” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.