Find English Teachers
Rebeca Miranda
What's the difference between maybe and perhaps?
Oct 17, 2016 8:38 PM
Answers · 8
2
I agree with all of the answers so far.
I want to note that in American English, we rarely use "perhaps" in writing or speaking. "Maybe" is our common word for both. In a sentence, we may also insert "possibly" or forms of "possible" instead.
Perhaps he may change his ways, if he falls on his face.
Maybe he will change his ways if he falls on his face.
If he falls on his face, it's possible he may change his ways.
Hope this helps! :)
October 18, 2016
1
Perhaps is a more formal way to say maybe. Maybe is more casual and much more likely to use daily.
October 17, 2016
1
I think there´s no difference between those words. I mostly use "maybe". The only mild difference I can come up with is that I haven´t ever heard or read "maybe" in a formal context. If I were to write one of these words in an essay, I would write "perhaps".
October 17, 2016
1
Both have the same meaning, I do however see 'maybe' being more used than 'perhaps'
October 17, 2016
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!
Rebeca Miranda
Language Skills
English, Portuguese
Learning Language
English
Articles You May Also Like

Speak More Fluently with This Simple Technique
23 likes · 2 Comments

How to Read and Understand a Business Contract in English
19 likes · 3 Comments

6 Ways italki Can Help You Succeed in Your School Language Classes
15 likes · 8 Comments
More articles