Maybe vs. May Be: Quick Grammar Fix to Boost Your Writing
Maybe is an adverb meaning “perhaps”; may be is a two-word verb phrase meaning “might be.”
Because they sound identical, people type the single word when they actually need the verb phrase, especially on phones where autocorrect favors the shorter form.
Key Differences
Maybe modifies an entire clause: “Maybe we should leave.” May be is a verb: “We may be late.” Spot the verb slot—if you can swap in “could be,” use may be.
Examples and Daily Life
Text your friend: “Maybe pizza tonight?” Later, you write: “There may be traffic, so I’ll check the route.” One sets tone, the other states possibility.
Is “maybe attending” correct?
No; “maybe” can’t be a verb. Write “may be attending.”
Can “maybe” start a sentence?
Yes: “Maybe we’ll win” is perfectly natural.