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USE 'MAYBE' IF 'PERHAPS' WORKS
Like 'maybe', the word 'perhaps' is an adverb.
Like 'maybe', the word 'perhaps' is an adverb.
If it works perfectly in your sentence, then you
should be using 'maybe'.
If 'perhaps' does not work well (i.e. you feel there is a
word missing), then you should be using 'may be'.
For example:
If you trust Google more than your
doctor then maybe it's time to switch doctors.
("..then perhaps it's time" — works perfectly. Therefore, 'maybe' is okay.)
Listening, not imitation, may be the
sincerest form of flattery.
("Listening, not imitation, perhaps the sincerest form..." — sound wrong. Therefore, 'may be' is okay. 'Maybe' would be wrong.)
("..then perhaps it's time" — works perfectly. Therefore, 'maybe' is okay.)
("Listening, not imitation, perhaps the sincerest form..." — sound wrong. Therefore, 'may be' is okay. 'Maybe' would be wrong.)
