Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

arguably

British  
/ ˈɑːɡjʊəblɪ /

adverb

  1. (sentence modifier) it can be argued that

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Explanation

Use the adverb arguably to describe something that can be asserted or shown to be a certain way. For example, you might say that your favorite teacher is arguably the best teacher in your school. If you declare that a certain restaurant makes what's arguably the best milkshake in town, you mean that a solid argument can be made in favor of their shakes. Use arguably when you want to emphasize or back up a statement or opinion. The word was first used in the late 19th century to mean "as may be shown by argument," from the Latin root word arguere, "make known, prove, or demonstrate."

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If there is one idea that epitomises Kompany's Bayern, it is arguably movement off the ball.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

Here is an arguably better one: For decades, the Dodgers and Lakers have dominated Los Angeles sports and left every other team far behind in popularity.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

Goldman’s stock was, arguably, relatively expensive heading into earnings, with a forward price/earnings ratio of 14.8.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 13, 2026

Rather, he is doing something else entirely, something arguably more pernicious.

From Salon • Apr. 13, 2026

And that gaze was arguably more intense and open to manipulation than ever.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama