adverbs - "Maybe" versus "perhaps"


Was there ever a real distinction between the two? I always have the urge to use maybe for discussing state and perhaps for actions. I know this is only because perhaps (by hap) and happen (befall by hap) share a root, but at least it's logical. Am I totally misguided here?



Answer



The differences between perhaps and maybe are the following:



  • Maybe is used as a noun, in phrases like no ifs, buts, or maybes.

  • Perhaps is used in polite requests: would you perhaps consent to act as our guide?


The meaning of maybe is possibly, perhaps. Except in set phrases, you can replace maybe with perhaps. As far as I know, there is no distinction in the usage of the words you describe; both the words can be used with actions.


[The examples are taken from the NOAD]


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