perhaps
|per-haps|
B1
🇺🇸
/pərˈhæps/
🇬🇧
/pəˈhæps/
possibility
Etymology
Etymology Information
'perhaps' originates from Middle English, specifically the phrase 'per haps,' where 'per' meant 'by' and 'haps' meant 'chance.'
Historical Evolution
'per haps' transformed into the modern English word 'perhaps' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'by chance,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'possibly or maybe.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
used to express uncertainty or possibility.
Perhaps we should try a different approach.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35