perhaps
word
/pɝˈhæps/
pur-HAPS
/pəhˈæps/
puh-HAPS
Definition
Used to show that something is possible but not certain; another way to say 'maybe' or 'possibly'.
Usage & Nuances
More formal than 'maybe' and often used in writing or polite conversation. Appears at the start or middle of sentences. Not typically used in direct answers ('Perhaps.' can sound uncertain or distant). Often interchangeable with 'maybe', but 'perhaps' is preferred in formal contexts.
Spanish: quizás - tal vezPortuguese (BR): talvez - quem sabePortuguese (PT): talvez - quiçáChinese (Simplified): 也许 - 可能Chinese (Traditional): 也許 - 可能Hindi: शायदArabic: ربماBengali: সম্ভবত - হয়তোRussian: возможно - может бытьJapanese: おそらく - たぶんVietnamese: có lẽ - có thểKorean: 아마 - 어쩌면Turkish: belki - muhtemelenUrdu: شایدIndonesian: mungkin
Example Sentences
Perhaps it will rain tomorrow.
basic
Perhaps she is at home now.
basic
We should perhaps ask for help.
basic
Perhaps you could try calling her again.
natural
He's late—perhaps he missed the bus.
natural
That’s not the answer I expected, but perhaps you’re right.
natural