Understanding 'Per Se' in English Sentences: Misuse and Correct Usage

When it comes to the English language, it is important to use the correct terms precisely. One such term that is often misused is 'per se.' Understanding the correct usage of 'per se' and its similarities and differences with 'as per' is crucial for effective writing and communication.

What Does 'Per Se' Mean?

The term 'per se' is Latin and translates to 'by or of itself.' When used in an English sentence, it means that a particular thing or idea should be considered on its own merits, without relying on additional context or context-dependent meanings. An example of using 'per se' correctly would be:

It is not a pretty town per se, but it is where my family comes from, so I like it.

Common Misuse of 'Per Se'

The phrase 'per se' is often misused in English. For instance, people frequently use it interchangeably with 'for each and every,' which is a different concept entirely. However, it is important to note that 'per se' is not used to mean 'for each and every.' Instead, it is used to indicate a self-standing condition or attribute. The misuse of 'per se' is common and has been reported in various contexts, although the exact frequency has not been definitively calculated.

Correct Usage of 'As Per' versus 'As per Se'

'As per' is a phrase that is commonly used in business and legal contexts. It means 'in accordance with' something specific. For example:

As per our agreement, we will commence work on your home on November 1, 2024.

In contrast, 'as per se' is not a commonly used phrase and thus is often incorrectly substituted for 'per se.' Here are some examples showing the correct and incorrect usage:

Correct Usage: He left the electric shaver to charge for 12 hours as per the instructions in the Owner's Manual. Misuse: As per se, he charged it for 12 hours.

It's important to distinguish between these two phrases. 'As per' is often used in contexts like requests, instructions, orders, schedules, and requirements, showing compliance or adherence to a specific set of guidelines. However, 'as per se' is not a standard phrase in English and should be avoided in formal writing.

Examples of Usage in Different Contexts

Legal Context

In the legal context, 'per se' often appears in statements that indicate a specific and inherent characteristic. For example:

It is illegal per se to distribute controlled substances without a license.

General Use

In general use, 'per se' is often used to denote something as self-evident or inherent:

Atomic bombs did not per se bring World War II to an end. Rather, the mismanagement and careless preparations over the long term of the failing states were the causes.

The Evolution of 'Per Se' Usage

My understanding of English sentence structure is influenced by my four years of secondary school Latin. Part of the Latin curriculum taught me that 'per se' is a phrase that adds emphasis to a sentence, indicating that a quality or characteristic is inherent and not dependent on additional factors. However, in modern English, the use of 'per se' has evolved.

Today, I have observed that 'per se' is often overused and can sometimes be seen as redundant, especially in formal writing. For example, in the sentence: 'Atomic bombs did not per se bring World War II to an end,' the phrase 'per se' does not add significant value and can be omitted without altering the meaning of the sentence.

It is worth noting that while 'per se' is a valid phrase, its usage has become less common in modern English. In professional and formal writing, it is advisable to use this term sparingly and only when it is necessary to emphasize that something is considered on its own merits, without additional context.

Conclusion

Understanding the correct usage of 'per se' and 'as per' can significantly enhance your written and spoken communication. By mastering these phrases, you can avoid common misuses and ensure that your writing is clear and effective. Whether you are writing a research paper, an official report, or a business correspondence, using these terms correctly will help you convey your ideas accurately and professionally.