perhaps

1 of 2

adverb

per·​haps pər-ˈhaps 

ˈpraps

: possibly but not certainly : maybe

perhaps

2 of 2

noun

: something open to doubt or conjecture

Synonyms

Adverb

• conceivably
• maybe
• mayhap
• perchance
• possibly

Examples of perhaps in a Sentence

Adverb

perhaps we will not have to take this exam, but I doubt it

Recent Examples on the Web

Adverb

And while the spirits industry at large is going through a rocky period as sales have dropped globally over the last year, rum’s future is perhaps a bit steadier if forecasts hold up. —Rachel King, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2024

But a new biography, Martin Van Buren: America’s First Politician, by James M. Bradley sheds new light on the obscure politician perhaps best remembered today for a running joke from a 1997 episode of Seinfeld. —Liz McNeil, People.com, 7 Dec. 2024

His innovative approach is perhaps most striking in his use of rare and unconventional materials, which often blend bold textures and lavish patterns. —Fairchild Studio, WWD, 7 Dec. 2024

California is perhaps uniquely equipped to square off against Trump's new administration's plans, as the state possesses the second largest Department of Justice (DOJ) in the country. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 7 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Adverb

per + hap

First Known Use

Adverb

circa 1520, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1534, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

perhaps

adverb

per·​haps

pər-ˈ(h)aps,

ˈpraps

: possibly but not certainly

Etymology

Adverb

from per (preposition) "by, according to" and haps, plural of hap "chance, chance occurrence" — related to happen, happy, mishap