The Flexible Usage of 'Per Se': Beyond Negative Polarity

While the term 'per se' is commonly thought of as a negative polarity item, historically rooted in Latin meaning 'by itself' or 'by the thing itself,' its use in modern English often extends beyond this narrow scope. This article explores the various acceptable positive uses of 'per se' in contemporary English, underscoring its versatility and the potential for nuanced expression in speech and writing.

Defining 'Per Se'

Per se originates from Latin and means 'by itself' or 'in itself.' In modern English, it is predominantly used in a negative context due to its status as a negative polarity item. This usage often carries implications of inherent characteristics or qualities. However, its application is more complex and flexible than meets the eye, as this article will demonstrate.

Positive Usage and Context

Contrary to its more frequent negative connotations, 'per se' can indeed be used positively in certain contexts. The key lies in understanding the context and the subtle implications behind the phrase.

Contrast and Emphasis

One of the most common and accepted positive uses of 'per se' occurs in the context of contrast, where it emphasizes a specific feature or quality without negation. For example, the phrase 'it felt like a whole meal per se' suggests that an otherwise modest meal was hearty and satisfying, thereby highlighting a positive aspect.

In another instance, 'I usually correct the spelling per se' can indicate that the correction of spelling is a common and routine activity, without any negative connotations. Here, the phrase serves to emphasize the routine nature of the action positively.

Rare Acceptable Positive Uses

While the majority of instances of 'per se' in modern English are still negative, there are a few instances where its positive usage can be considered acceptable. These often occur under specific conditions, such as when the context provides a contrast or when the phrase is used casually in a conversational manner.

Casual Usage and Interchange with 'As Such' or 'By Itself'

'Per se' can be used interchangeably with 'as such' or 'by itself' in casual contexts where the speaker or writer is familiar with the phrase. This interchangeability can make language more flexible and adaptable to different styles and contexts. For example, 'I don’t see anything wrong with the proposal per se but under all of the circumstances, it’s not a good idea' can be rephrased as 'I don’t see anything wrong with the proposal as such but under all of the circumstances, it’s not a good idea.'

Descriptive Usage

'Per se' can also be used to describe something, particularly in legal or ethical contexts where it emphasizes inherent qualities. For instance, 'hurting people merely to cause pain is a per se unacceptable act' highlights the inherent quality of the action as unethical. In this case, 'per se' is used to describe the act itself, rather than negating it.

Latin Usage

Finally, 'per se' can be used in literary or scholarly contexts where knowledge of Latin is assumed. In such cases, the phrase may be used to maintain a certain level of formality or to convey a precise, technical meaning. An example might be in legal or academic writing, where precise language is crucial.

For instance, 'Ipsi nihil per se sine eo facere potuerunt' is a Latin sentence that could be translated to 'they could not have done it without it per se.' In this context, 'per se' maintains the Latin usage while conveying a precise meaning in its original context.

Conclusion

While the majority of 'per se' usage in modern English remains in a negative context due to its inherent nature as a negative polarity item, there are occasions where its positive usage is appropriate and accepted. These include contexts of emphasis, casual interchangeability, descriptive usage, and Latin usage, each requiring a nuanced understanding of the surrounding context and the speaker's intention.

Keywords

Positive usage, per se, acceptable uses