That depends on the context. Usually, there is no difference in meaning. But 'may be' cannot always be directly replaced by perhaps. For example, if 'be' is the verb in the sentence, e.g. 'He may be right' - where you would need to rephrase it as 'Perhaps he is right'.

"May be" and "maybe" are different expressions. One is a verb and one is an adverb. Know the difference. If you use a dictionary to look up the meanings, you will find that they are essentially identical.

activeoldest votes up vote 7 down vote accepted 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 word maybe is one word not 2 like you have written.