arguably
UK: ˈɑːɡjuəbli | US: ˈɑːrɡjuəbli
adv. used to indicate that a statement is open to debate or disagreement but is likely true
adv. in a way that can be supported by reasoning or evidence
The word "arguably" combines "argue," derived from Latin arguere (to make clear, prove, accuse), with the adverbial suffix "-ably," from Latin -abilis (capable of). Over time, "argue" evolved in Middle English to mean "to debate," while "-ably" generalized to form adverbs indicating manner. Thus, "arguably" emerged in the 16th century to convey "in a debatable but defensible way," reflecting its roots in reasoned discourse.
He is arguably the greatest footballer of all time.
This is arguably the most important discovery in modern science.
The novel is arguably her finest work.
The policy is arguably unfair to small businesses.
Arguably, the decision could have been made sooner.