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Define Per Se Meaning

Per Se
Latin borrowing meaning "in and of itself", used in certain fairly specific, idiomatic contexts in casual English. Is typically used with a negative to indicate that a term being used is understood to be imprecise or off-the-mark (i.e., not accurate 'per se') in a case where the term is nevertheless useful to an explanation. Usually followed by an explanation or justification for the use of the term indicated.

It is as well sometimes used preceding a term indicated, especially in more formal (e.g., legal) usage. In these contexts, usually used in the positive to reinforce a characterisation as fundamentally being the case (i.e., 'per se' accurate).

"It's not that I consider it a 'joke' per se. It's just that I don't think it takes the subject quite seriously enough, under the circumstances."

"Sexual advances toward a minor are without exception per se illegal in this state. This is not open to question or challenge."
By Zuzana
Per Se
A Pretentious term, often used both out of context and too often by people who would like to sound more intelligent than they actually are.

"I know that you are my best friend but if you continue to use this phrase i shall have to kick the living shit out of you"..."Ok i wont kick shit out of you per se but i`ll certainly make you wish you had never said it"
By Grace
Per Se
Synonym for "exactly" or "quite."

I wouldn't call her short, per se. Maybe vertically challenged.
By Kellina
Per Se
a phrase that allows some flexibility in the topic at hand, so you can talk about something without being very specific

i wouldn't say it's a psuedo box, per se, but i digress, i really do
By Sarena
Per Se
-- on the face of it
-- generally speaking
-- on average
-- inherently

Frequently used improperly by persons who think it makes them sound educated.

Its not that these people are stupid, per se. Its usually the case that they are self-educated.
By Francisca
Per Se
Of, in, or by itself or oneself; intrinsically.

with respect to its inherent nature;

Can be used to mean "as such", "sort of" and "just about" but the phrase may not fit into the context of such uses.

"this statement is interesting per se"

"i can go were ever want per se"
By Lynna
Per Se
"as such" or "by" but really it seems to be used as a pause in a sentence.

It is an overused phrase by Neanderthal wannabes incapable of speaking or writing clearly.

I would interested in fucking her per se if she would just shut up.
By Roxanna
Gayness Per Se
violations of heterosexual law

For a valid gayness per se claim, the plaintiff must show:

1) the potentially gay actor committed a homosexual act,
2) the act is one that is commonly associated with gayness, and
3) the act involves another man

Footnote: intent is irrelevant under gayness per se analysis; therefore, unintentional or accidental acts of gayness will rise to the level of full-blown gay under gayness per se

Jeffrey, under the false assumption that gayness must be intended, did not think he was gay after accidentally bumping into a naked old man in the locker room. Jeffrey is guilty of gayness per se.

Mari thought that Shawn was a man, but in reality Shawn was a grotesque and hideous looking woman in disguise. Mari is guilty of gayness per se.
By Marcellina