that is perhaps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is perhaps" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express uncertainty or to suggest a possibility in a statement. Example: "The solution to the problem is, that is perhaps, more complex than we initially thought."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We mention one that is perhaps the chief.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This is another pick that is perhaps unlikely.

The Washington Post

He answered with a story that is perhaps apocryphal.

The New York Times - Travel

The party that is perhaps more culpable -- the rebels -- answers to no one.

The Washington Post

And money does not buy trust, the commodity that is perhaps most needed.

The Economist

At such an isolating time in my life, that is perhaps not a bad thing.

The New York Times

(It is the positum that is admitted, but the propositum that is perhaps conceded).

SEP

In Paradoxology that is perhaps the name of God".

Los Angeles Times

That is perhaps unsurprising.

The Economist

That is perhaps uncharitable.

The New York Times - Arts

That is perhaps overblown.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that is perhaps" to introduce a speculative or tentative explanation, softening the impact of a statement.

Common error

Avoid using "that is perhaps" too frequently in a single piece of writing, as it can make your tone seem overly hesitant or uncertain. Vary your language with other expressions of possibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is perhaps" functions as a modal adjunct, adding a degree of uncertainty or tentativeness to a statement. It qualifies the assertion being made, signaling that it is not a definitive claim but rather a possibility or speculation. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Academia

18%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that is perhaps" is a versatile phrase used to express uncertainty or possibility. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and frequently found in various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific writing. While alternatives like "that may be" and "that could be" exist, "that is perhaps" offers a slightly more conversational tone. Use it to soften statements, introduce speculations, and avoid overly assertive claims. However, be mindful of overuse to maintain a balanced and confident writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that may be

Replaces "is" with "may be", emphasizing possibility rather than a statement of fact with added uncertainty.

that could be

Similar to "that may be", but suggests a potential outcome or explanation.

that might be

Another variation suggesting possibility, often implying a slightly lower probability than "may be".

that is possibly

Replaces "perhaps" with "possibly", directly modifying the verb "is" with an adverb of possibility.

it is conceivable that

Introduces a higher degree of uncertainty and formality, suggesting something is imaginable but not necessarily likely.

it's plausible that

Suggests the statement is believable or likely based on available evidence.

it is reasonable to assume

Frames the statement as a logical deduction based on certain conditions.

it's a possibility that

Highlights the statement as one potential option among others.

it is not unlikely that

Uses a double negative to suggest a moderate degree of likelihood, often used for understatement.

one might speculate that

Frames the statement as a speculative thought or conjecture, indicating a lack of definitive evidence.

FAQs

How can I use "that is perhaps" in a sentence?

Use "that is perhaps" to express a degree of uncertainty or possibility. For example, "The best solution, that is perhaps, is to reconsider the initial assumptions."

What are some alternatives to "that is perhaps"?

Alternatives include "that may be", "that could be", or "that might be", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to use "that is perhaps" or "that may be"?

"That is perhaps" and "that may be" are generally similar in formality. However, "that is perhaps" might be perceived as slightly more conversational, while "that may be" has a slightly more neutral tone.

What's the difference between "that is perhaps" and "that is certainly"?

"That is perhaps" indicates uncertainty or possibility, while "that is certainly" expresses confidence or conviction. They convey opposite meanings regarding the likelihood of something being true.