In simple terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In simple terms" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify or simplify a complex idea or concept for better understanding. Example: "In simple terms, photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In simple terms, they were probably right.

Independent

In simple terms, it is unnatural.

The New York Times

In simple terms, War Emblem has a libido problem.

The New York Times - Sports

In simple terms, she finally understands love's meaning.

The Guardian - Books

In simple terms, there are two conflicting ideologies.

The Guardian - Opinion

"In simple terms, she's the greatest dog photographer there is".

The New Yorker

In simple terms, how do the programs work?

The New York Times

In simple terms, what has caused the chronic demand shortfall?

The Guardian - Business

In simple terms, this is what happened: a piano.

The New Yorker

In simple terms, this move is the mic drop.

The Guardian - Sport

In simple terms, it pits Ronaldo (again) against Lionel Messi.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Place "In simple terms" at the beginning of a sentence to signal an upcoming simplified explanation.

Common error

Avoid oversimplifying to the point of inaccuracy. While "In simple terms" aims for clarity, ensure the explanation remains truthful and doesn't mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "In simple terms" functions as a discourse marker or sentence adverbial. It signals the speaker's intention to provide a more accessible explanation of something that might otherwise be difficult to understand. Ludwig confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"In simple terms" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a simplified explanation of a complex topic. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically correct and very common in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and general explanations. While it aims for clarity, users should avoid oversimplification to ensure accuracy. Alternatives include "in layman's terms" and "to put it simply", offering subtle variations in emphasis and formality. The frequency and distribution across authoritative sources underscore its value in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In layman's terms

Emphasizes explanation accessible to non-experts.

To put it simply

Highlights brevity and directness of explanation.

In plain English

Focuses on using clear and understandable language.

In a nutshell

Implies a concise and summarized explanation.

To break it down

Suggests a step-by-step simplification.

In basic terms

Highlights fundamental aspects of the explanation.

In essence

Focuses on the core meaning or central idea.

In broad strokes

Indicates a general overview without detailed specifics.

Put another way

Offers an alternative formulation for clarification.

To clarify

Directly indicates the intention to make something clearer.

FAQs

How can I use "In simple terms" in a sentence?

You can use "In simple terms" to introduce a more straightforward explanation of a complex topic. For example, "Photosynthesis, in simple terms, is how plants make their food."

What phrases are similar to "In simple terms"?

Similar phrases include "in layman's terms", "to put it simply", or "in plain English".

When is it appropriate to use "In simple terms"?

It's appropriate to use "In simple terms" when you want to explain a technical or complex concept in a way that is easy for a general audience to understand.

Is "In simple terms" formal or informal?

"In simple terms" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although alternatives may be more suitable for highly formal writing.