arguably
Britishadverb
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."
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.
He was arguably too aggressive with Lewis Hamilton at the first chicane on the first lap, forcing his team-mate into the gravel and dropping him to 10th, and crashed out a lap later.
From BBC ● Sep. 8, 2026
James, a first-team All-Pro, returns as arguably the best defensive back in the NFL.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 7, 2026
Hermès is the luxury brand that is arguably making the best attempt of it.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 7, 2026
Understanding what caused the issue is more complicated — and arguably just as important.
From Salon ● Sep. 1, 2026
The first and arguably most important point is that criminal justice reform efforts—standing alone—are futile.
From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.