clarify terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clarify terms" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to ensure that specific words or phrases are understood in the same way by all parties involved in a discussion or agreement. Example: "Before we proceed with the contract, let's clarify terms to avoid any misunderstandings later."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

First, let's clarify terms.

The New York Times

Add a glossary to clarify terms like "dissonance," one man suggested.

The New York Times - Arts

CARAIPER is the acronym of the steps: case, clarify terms, representation of the activity, analysis, integration, questions, independent study, and feedback.

Educación Médica

The most elaborate and funniest of several patter songs, "The Markets," purports to be a demystifying explanation of the daunting language of Wall Street, which Ms. Keane promises should clarify terms like hedge fund, arbitrage, futures and short selling.

The New York Times

A list of abbreviations and definitions is included to clarify terms and parameters used in this paper.

Environmental Sciences Europe

We also thought it was necessary to review and clarify terms that are currently being used for LV and created an updated Glossary to be used for consistency across the translation industry.

Journal of Patient-Reported Outcomes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Note: Contract Advisor may attach notes to purchase order with additional or clarifying Terms and Conditions.

Stanford University

To make his case, Brooks — who likes to reach for the occasionally effortful neologism — has come up with a pair of clarifying terms: the "résumé virtues" and the "eulogy virtues".

The New Yorker

But let us begin by clarifying terms (see Lloyd 1992, 2001).

SEP

They not only opened up a variety of perspectives on our research questions, they were also essential for clarifying terms and thus for interpreting the data.

International Journal of Child Care and Education Policy

In this level of the authoring, the designer is guided to create activities only with the activity types such as meet problem, clarify concept, and discuss under the context of the phase type clarifying terms and concepts.

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a new or complex topic, always "clarify terms" early on to ensure a common understanding and prevent confusion among your audience.

Common error

Don't assume your audience already knows the definitions of key terms. Even if they seem basic, "clarify terms" to avoid misinterpretations and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clarify terms" functions primarily as a directive or recommendation. It advises or instructs someone to make specific words or expressions more easily understood. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

32%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "clarify terms" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to emphasize the importance of making language accessible and preventing misunderstandings. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. Predominantly found in scientific, news, and academic contexts, it serves to ensure clear communication by defining potentially ambiguous words or phrases. When writing, especially in technical or specialized fields, remember to "clarify terms" to foster understanding and avoid assumptions about your audience's knowledge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

define terminology

Focuses specifically on the act of defining, making it suitable when a formal definition is required.

explain concepts

Shifts the focus to explaining the underlying ideas rather than just the words.

elucidate definitions

Implies a more detailed and thorough explanation of existing definitions.

interpret wording

Highlights the act of understanding the specific choice of words used.

demystify jargon

Specifically targets complex or technical language, making it more accessible.

spell out details

Emphasizes making every aspect clear and explicit, leaving no room for ambiguity.

disambiguate language

Addresses situations where the language is ambiguous or has multiple interpretations.

refine understanding

Implies improving an existing, but incomplete, understanding of the terms.

specify meanings

Focuses on providing precise and particular meanings for the terms in question.

illuminate phraseology

Suggests a deeper, more insightful explanation of the wording used.

FAQs

How can I use "clarify terms" in a research paper?

In academic writing, "clarify terms" early in your paper to establish a shared understanding of key concepts. This enhances the credibility and clarity of your research, particularly when dealing with specialized or contested vocabulary. For example, start by saying, "To avoid ambiguity, it is essential to "define terminology" as we use it in this study".

What's the difference between "clarify terms" and "explain concepts"?

"Clarify terms" focuses on making the definitions of words or phrases clear. "Explain concepts", on the other hand, involves elaborating on the underlying ideas, theories, or principles behind those terms. You might "clarify terms" by providing a definition, while you "explain concepts" by describing how those terms function in a larger context.

Is it always necessary to "clarify terms" when writing?

While not always required, it's generally a good practice to "clarify terms" if you are using technical, uncommon, or potentially ambiguous words or phrases. Doing so helps ensure that your audience understands your message as intended and avoids any misunderstandings or misinterpretations.

What are some other ways to "clarify terms" in a presentation?

Besides providing direct definitions, you can "clarify terms" through examples, analogies, visuals, and real-world applications. You can also "demystify jargon" by breaking down complex language into more accessible terms.