Talvez vs. Quem Sabe: Say ‘Maybe’ in Brazilian Portuguese
Talvez is a direct ‘maybe,’ quem sabe sounds like ‘who knows,’ and pode ser often accepts a possible plan.
Real Life Portuguese · 6 min read · Updated October 14, 2026
The short answer
Talvez means ‘maybe’ or ‘perhaps.’ Put it near the beginning or before the verb to show that you are not sure: talvez eu vá (maybe I’ll go). In careful Portuguese, talvez often appears with the subjunctive when the outcome is uncertain; learners will also hear indicative forms in spontaneous speech.
Use talvez to state uncertainty directly
If you are discussing a plan, add a time or condition so the other person knows what remains undecided. Talvez by itself does not promise that the plan will happen.
Talvez eu trabalhe de casa amanhã.
Maybe I’ll work from home tomorrow.
Talvez a gente chegue depois das oito.
Maybe we’ll arrive after eight.
Ela talvez esteja no mercado.
Maybe she’s at the market.
Use quem sabe for an open possibility
Quem sabe literally means ‘who knows?’ and can introduce a hopeful or open possibility: quem sabe a gente se encontra no sábado (maybe we’ll meet on Saturday). It often feels less like a firm answer and more like leaving the door open.
Pode ser means ‘that could work’ or ‘maybe,’ especially when responding to an option. It can signal tentative agreement, so confirm details if you need a definite yes.
Quem sabe a gente almoça junto na sexta?
Maybe we can have lunch together on Friday?
Podemos começar às nove. — Pode ser.
We can start at nine. — That could work.
Quem sabe eu visite Salvador no próximo ano.
Maybe I’ll visit Salvador next year.
Put it into practice
Talvez is a clear ‘maybe.’ Quem sabe leaves a possibility open, and pode ser often accepts a suggestion tentatively. Confirm a time when you need a definite plan.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “Maybe I’ll work from home tomorrow”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
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