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per-se

adverb

/pəː ˈseɪ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of per-se

To indicate that something is true or valid in and of itself, without the need for any additional context or explanation.
"The behavior is not illegal per se, but it can be considered unethical."

Detailed meaning of per-se

Latin for "in itself." It is often used to emphasize that something has inherent or intrinsic value or importance, regardless of its relationship to other things. For example, a statement that "murder is wrong per se" means that murder is inherently wrong, regardless of the specific circumstances or motivations involved. It can also be used to indicate that something is not the main concern or focus, but rather is considered as a side note. It is also used in legal and scientific contexts to indicate that something is being examined for its own sake rather than in relation to other things.

Example sentences containing per-se

1. The statement is not racist per se, but it can be interpreted as such.
2. The policy is not discriminatory per se, but it does have a disproportionate impact on certain groups.
3. The product is not unsafe per se, but it does have certain risks associated with it.
4. The activity is not harmful per se, but it can be dangerous if not done properly.
5. The image is not offensive per se, but it can be considered controversial.
6. The argument is not invalid per se, but it does have some flaws.

History and etymology of per-se

The adverb 'per se' has its etymology deeply rooted in Latin. 'Per' means 'by' or 'through,' and 'se' is the ablative form of the reflexive pronoun 'sui,' which means 'itself' or 'themselves.' When combined, 'per se' signifies that something is true or valid in and of itself, without the need for any additional context or explanation. This Latin phrase has been adopted into English to emphasize the inherent nature or qualities of something, regardless of external factors. The etymology of 'per se' underscores its role as a term that points to the intrinsic characteristics or merits of a subject, independent of surrounding circumstances or influences, and it is often used to clarify that a statement or concept should be understood on its own merits.

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Further usage examples of per-se

1. The decision is not bad per se, but it does have some negative consequences.
2. The idea is not impractical per se, but it does have some challenges that need to be addressed.
3. The process is not inefficient per se, but it could be improved.
4. The term is not racist per se but can be used in a racial manner.
5. The act is not immoral per se but it can be viewed as such in certain contexts.
6. he artwork, while visually striking per-se, also carries a profound message.
7. The scientific theory, intriguing per-se, has the potential to revolutionize our understanding.
8. The historical document, valuable per-se, sheds light on the past.
9. The architectural design, impressive per-se, blends form and function seamlessly.
10. The mathematical proof, elegant per-se, simplifies a complex problem.
11. The legal argument, strong per-se, stands up to scrutiny in the courtroom.
12. The culinary creation, exquisite per-se, delights the senses with its flavors.
13. The philosophical concept, thought-provoking per-se, challenges conventional wisdom.
14. The technological innovation, groundbreaking per-se, ushers in a new era of possibilities.
15. The natural phenomenon, breathtaking per-se, leaves observers in awe of nature's beauty.
16. The musical composition, moving per-se, evokes deep emotions in listeners.
17. The literary work, timeless per-se, continues to captivate readers across generations.
18. The medical discovery, significant per-se, promises to improve healthcare worldwide.
19. The economic theory, influential per-se, shapes policies and market strategies.
20. The environmental initiative, commendable per-se, promotes sustainability and conservation.
21. The fashion design, stylish per-se, reflects the designer's unique vision.
22. The educational approach, effective per-se, empowers students to excel academically.
23. The political speech, persuasive per-se, resonates with a diverse audience.
24. The sporting event, thrilling per-se, showcases athletes' dedication and skill.
25. The humanitarian effort, noble per-se, seeks to alleviate suffering and provide hope.