per se

[pur sey, see, per]

adverb

1. by, of, for, or in itself; intrinsically.

   This candidate is not a pacifist per se, but he is in favor of peaceful solutions when practicable.

   Synonyms: fundamentally, indigenously, inherently, innately

per se

/ ˈpɜː ˈseɪ /

adverb

1. by or in itself; intrinsically

Word History and Origins

Origin of per se¹

First recorded in 1565–75; from Latin per sē “by itself,” translation of Greek kath’ autó

Word History and Origins

Origin of per se¹

Latin

Example Sentences

He struggled to answer questions like “Why should it exist” and “Why should it go into the world,” as it felt his music always had to have a place, per se.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s not even out of necessity per se, but more out of desire.

From Los Angeles Times

“It therefore constitutes a per se physical taking” without compensation.

From Los Angeles Times

This tweak is not a performance part per se.

From BBC

It's not about religion, per se, but the culture clash between the Musk fanboys and the Christian nationalist debate is driving much of this.

From Salon