Words / B2

AHG-yoo-uh-blee/ˈɑːɡjuəbli/

Arguably means you could reasonably make this claim — a cautious booster, not a fact stamp. Arguably the best hedges the praise; definitely does not, and possibly is weaker, less about a reasoned claim. It is common in essays and reviews; in speech, you could say or I would argue is more natural. Do not use it to hide a guess with no reasons.

Meaning

Used to say that something can reasonably be claimed.

Examples

• “This is arguably the best essay in the class.”
• “This is arguably the clearest chapter in the book.”
• “Arguably, shorter tests reduce anxiety without lowering standards.”

Good to know

Hedge: you could reasonably claim. Weaker: possibly. Stronger: definitely. Everyday: you could say.

Near in meaning

possibly

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