adverb
maybe, perhaps
A1
Vielleicht means 'maybe' or 'perhaps'. It is a modal adverb used to express possibility or uncertainty, typically sentence-initial or before the verb in subordinate clauses. It's invariable (no inflection) and not reflexive. Tone can be tentative; can combine with modal verbs for nuance (e.g., 'vielleicht könnte').
Examples
Der Zug verspätete sich, weil vielleicht ein technisches Problem aufgetreten war.
The train was delayed because perhaps a technical problem had occurred.
Vielleicht regnet es morgen.
Perhaps it will rain tomorrow.
Vielleicht komme ich später vorbei.
Maybe I'll drop by later.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture a question mark above someone's head to remember uncertainty.
Sounds like 'fill-lie-ch' — imagine filling a lie with 'maybe'.
Notes
Common adverb for possibility; used in both formal and informal contexts.