かも知れない

• Reading: かもしれない
• Romaji: kamoshirenai
• Kanji breakdown: 知 (shi) — to know
• Pronunciation: /ka.mo.ɕi.ɾe.na.i/

Meaning

Maybe; perhaps; might be. Expresses uncertainty or possibility about something.

An expression attached to the end of a plain-form verb, adjective, or noun to indicate possibility. More uncertain than だろう and less formal than かもしれません. In casual speech, often shortened to かも. Very frequently used in everyday conversation to soften statements or express doubt.

Examples

1. 明日は雨が降るかも知れない。 It might rain tomorrow.
2. あの店はもう閉まったかも知れない。 That store might already be closed.
3. 彼女の言うことは正しいかも知れない。 What she says might be right.

Usage Guide

Context: daily conversation, speculation, planning

Tone: tentative

Origin & History

Derived from the particle かも (perhaps) combined with 知れない (cannot be known), literally meaning 'it cannot be known whether.' The expression evolved from classical Japanese epistemic markers.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal