tal vez
/ˌtal ˈbeθ/
The Spanish phrase for perhaps is tal vez.
tal vez is used to indicate that something is possible but not certain.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase tal vez literally translates to such time or such maybe, where tal means such and vez means time or instance.
Which one should you use?
While tal vez can be used with the indicative mood to state a possibility that the speaker considers a likely fact, using the subjunctive mood shifts the emphasis toward a higher degree of uncertainty.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, tal vez is frequently used. In Spain, the terms a lo mejor and quizás are commonly used. In Argentina, speakers use capaz or puede ser to convey a similar meaning.
How does it change in a sentence?
When tal vez expresses doubt or uncertainty, it often triggers the use of the subjunctive mood in the following verb.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌtal ˈbeθ/
Did you know?
- The common Spanish alternative a lo mejor literally translates to 'to the best', yet it is used as a casual way to say 'maybe'.
- While tal vez is common, a Spanish speaker might use the word capaz to mean 'perhaps' in Argentina. This uses an adjective that usually means 'capable' to express possibility.
- If you use the phrase a lo mejor instead of tal vez in Spain, you should generally avoid using the subjunctive mood. Unlike tal vez, a lo mejor typically pairs with the indicative.
Examples in context
- Tal vez pueda ayudar.Perhaps I can help.This sentence shows how to use tal vez to express a possibility of being able to help.Tatoeba #7923194 by fpp, translation #3393270 by CK
- Tal vez eso es cierto.Perhaps that's true.This sentence uses tal vez to express the possibility of something being true.Tatoeba #1296673 by marcelostockle, translation #67318 by CK
- Tal vez lo encontremos.Perhaps we will find it.This sentence shows tal vez used to express the possibility of finding something.Tatoeba #1105204 by Shishir, translation #1388180 by CC
- Tal vez vaya al cine mañana.Perhaps I will go to the cinema tomorrow.
- A lo mejor nos vemos más tarde en el café.Maybe we'll see each other later at the café.
- 28 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Javier and Sofía are discussing plans for the weekend.
- Javier¿Quieres ir al cine mañana?Do you want to go to the cinema tomorrow?
- SofíaTal vez, si termino mi tarea.Perhaps, if I finish my homework.
- JavierEntiendo, avísame cuando sepas.I understand, let me know when you know.
- SofíaSí, te llamaré más tarde.Yes, I will call you later.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry tal vez, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
