Have you ever typed “per say” in an email or seen it in an article and wondered if it’s right? You’re not alone.
Many people confuse per se with per say, and this tiny mix-up can make writing look sloppy or unprofessional.
In this guide, you’ll learn the meaning, origin, correct usage, and common mistakes surrounding this tricky phrase, plus practical tips to use it like a language pro.
What Does “Per Se” Actually Mean?
In simple words, per se means “by itself” or “inherently.” It’s a phrase used to focus on the intrinsic quality of something rather than the context around it.
For example:
- “The movie isn’t bad per se, but the plot is confusing.”
Here, the film itself isn’t bad, but other factors make it less enjoyable.
Think of per se as a spotlight on the thing itself. It separates the core idea from everything else.
The Origin of “Per Se”
Per se comes from Latin:
- per = through/by
- se = itself
So literally, it means “by itself” or “in itself.”
This Latin phrase entered English during the Renaissance when scholars were translating classical texts. Over time, it became part of everyday English, especially in formal writing, legal documents, and journalism.
Interestingly, many English phrases with Latin roots retain their original structure but adapt to modern usage. Per se is one of the few that stayed almost unchanged.
Why “Per Say” Is Incorrect
You might see people write per say, but that’s a mistake. Here’s why:
- Phonetic Confusion: “Per say” sounds similar to “per se,” so it slips into casual speech.
- Grammar Mismatch: “Say” is a verb. Pairing it with “per” doesn’t make sense.
- Persistence: Even professional writers sometimes make this error because they’ve heard it spoken incorrectly.
Using per say in professional or academic writing can make your work appear less credible. It’s a subtle mistake, but one readers notice subconsciously.
Is “Per Say” Ever Acceptable?
Technically, no. It’s never correct in formal writing.
However, in casual conversation, some people might intentionally say per say for humorous effect or to mimic spoken language. For example:
- “Well, per say, I didn’t hate it… but it could’ve been better.”
Even then, it’s a stylistic choice, not a correct usage.
How to Use “Per Se” Correctly
Placement in sentences matters. You can use per se at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence. Here are examples for clarity:
- Start: “Per se, the idea isn’t flawed, but execution matters.”
- Middle: “The idea, per se, isn’t flawed, but execution matters.”
- End: “The idea isn’t flawed per se, but execution matters.”
Tips to remember:
- Use it to emphasize the thing itself.
- Don’t overuse it—one or two times per paragraph is enough.
- Avoid pairing it with unnecessary modifiers like “absolutely per se.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even if you know per se is correct, people still make mistakes. Here’s what to watch for:
- Writing per say instead of per se
- Adding redundancy: “per se itself”
- Misplacing it in a sentence: “I like, per se, the cake” (awkward placement)
A good rule is to read the sentence out loud. If it feels clunky, move per se or simplify the sentence.
Alternatives and Synonyms
Sometimes, you might want to avoid Latin phrases altogether. Here are some alternatives:
| Phrase | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| per se | by itself | “The idea isn’t bad per se.” |
| intrinsically | inherently | “The problem is intrinsically complex.” |
| essentially | in essence | “It’s essentially a misunderstanding.” |
| inherently | naturally part of | “He isn’t rude inherently, just blunt.” |
Using these can make your writing more approachable, especially if your audience isn’t familiar with Latin.
“Per Se” vs. Other Confusing Phrases
Per se vs. necessarily
- “Per se” focuses on something intrinsically.
- “Necessarily” implies inevitability.
Example:
- “This policy isn’t harmful per se, but it could create problems.”
- “This policy isn’t necessarily harmful.”
Per se vs. so to speak
- “So to speak” is a figurative phrase, often signaling metaphorical language.
- “Per se” is literal and emphasizes the thing itself.
Example:
- “He’s a genius, so to speak.” → figurative
- “The idea isn’t flawed per se.” → literal
Quick Grammar Guide: Where to Place “Per Se”
- After the noun or adjective it modifies:
- Correct: “The method isn’t flawed per se.”
- Incorrect: “Per se the method isn’t flawed.” (can work but often awkward)
- Avoid splitting it with extra punctuation:
- Correct: “The plan, per se, is solid.”
- Incorrect: “The plan — per se — is solid.”
- Keep it concise: Less is more when using Latin in English sentences.
How “Per Se” Is Used in Law, Media, and Culture
Legal Context
In law, per se is used to describe something that is automatically illegal or inherently a violation. For example:
- “Price fixing is illegal per se under antitrust laws.”
Here, the violation itself is enough to establish illegality.
Pop Culture and Media
Writers, journalists, and critics use per se to clarify nuances:
- Movie reviews: “The acting isn’t bad per se, but the pacing drags.”
- Articles: “The policy isn’t harmful per se, but its implementation is questionable.”
Everyday Relevance
Using per se correctly makes you sound precise, thoughtful, and professional. It’s a small detail, but it elevates your communication.
Why It Matters to Get “Per Se” Right
- Professional Credibility: Using the right term shows attention to detail.
- Clarity: Readers understand your exact meaning.
- Authority: Precise language builds trust in your expertise.
- Everyday Communication: Even emails or social posts benefit from correct usage.
Remember: A tiny error like per say can distract from your main point, so it’s worth mastering.
FAQ
Which is correct, per se or per say?
Answer: Per se is correct. Per say is a common mistake.
Where do we use per se?
Answer: Use it to emphasize something intrinsically or by itself, in writing or speech.
What does “at per se” mean?
Answer: This is incorrect. People sometimes add “at” mistakenly. Stick to per se alone.
What does “so per se” mean?
Answer: Also incorrect. Per se should not be combined with “so.” Use it directly in context.
Why is it called per se?
Answer: It’s Latin for “by itself”, indicating the thing’s inherent quality.
Final Takeaways: “Per Se” vs. “Per Say”
- Always use “per se” in formal and professional writing.
- Avoid per say, even in casual writing unless it’s for humor.
- Use synonyms like intrinsically or essentially if Latin feels too formal.
- Place per se carefully in the sentence to keep clarity.
- Precision in language enhances credibility and helps your readers understand your exact meaning.
Mastering per se is a small step that makes a big difference in your writing. Once you start using it correctly, you’ll notice your communication feels sharper, more polished, and more professional.
I’m Alex Henry — a passionate English enthusiast who loves exploring words, grammar, and the art of expression. I share creative tips to help you fall in love with the English language every day.