describe in terms of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "describe in terms of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want someone to explain or characterize something using specific concepts or criteria. Example: "To better understand the phenomenon, please describe it in terms of its impact on the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The reason there are three quantum numbers is we're describing an orbital in three dimensions, so it makes sense that we would need to describe in terms of three different quantum numbers.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

However, the combination of particle-like and wavelike properties in quantum mechanics is unlike anything in ordinary experience, and, as soon as one attempts to describe in terms of quantum mechanics the behaviour of a group of identical particles (e.g., the electrons in an atom), the problem of visualizing them in concrete terms becomes still more intractable.

Britannica

In a campaign that people here often describe in terms of a choice between East and West, the debate has come closer than any poll to identifying the political center, underscoring why so many expect a victory for Tunisia's mainstream Islamist party, Ennahda.

The New York Times

Consider an experience which one would describe in terms of seeing a snow covered churchyard for what it is.

SEP

The assumed problem is two-dimensional guillotine cutting, which we can describe in terms of the three steps of the RPW method as follows: 1.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

Furthermore, the development can be describe in terms of the successes in small-scale applications (niches) that are up-scaled and become the new standard in the energy market (new regime) [18 20].

Energy, Sustainability and Society

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

One act described in terms of another.

The New Yorker

Invariably described in terms of the three D's — Deranged!

The New York Times

How you feel is described in terms of tolerance.

Columbia University

Each variant provides different functionality described in terms of features.

Journal of Systems and Software

The object classes are described in terms of functional components.

Computer Vision and Image Understanding

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "describe in terms of", ensure that the criteria or concepts you are using for description are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using overly technical or jargon-heavy language when you "describe in terms of" something, as it can alienate your audience. Strive for clarity and accessibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "describe in terms of" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces the specific criteria or concepts used to characterize or explain something. Ludwig provides many examples that demonstrate its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "describe in terms of" is a useful tool for explaining and characterizing subjects by focusing on specific criteria. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and applicable across various domains. While not exceptionally common, its usage is generally neutral and found in science, news, and academic writing. When employing the phrase, ensure clarity in your chosen criteria to maintain precision and accessibility for your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explain using

This alternative focuses on the act of explaining by employing specific concepts or tools.

characterize based on

This option emphasizes the process of characterizing something utilizing particular standards or criteria.

define with respect to

This phrase suggests defining something in relation to specific parameters or frameworks.

elucidate through

This alternative highlights the use of specific examples or details to make something clear.

interpret via

This option underscores the act of interpreting something through the lens of specific principles or methods.

analyze in light of

This phrase points to analyzing something considering particular factors or contexts.

represent utilizing

This alternative focuses on representing something using specific methods or tools.

frame within the context of

This option emphasizes the act of framing something within a specific contextual understanding.

present regarding

This phrase offers a more direct way of presenting something with respect to certain factors.

detail with reference to

This alternative suggests providing a detailed account, making specific references.

FAQs

How can I use "describe in terms of" in a sentence?

You can use "describe in terms of" to explain or characterize something using specific concepts or criteria. For example: "The economy can be "described in terms of" growth, inflation, and unemployment."

What phrases are similar to "describe in terms of"?

Similar phrases include "explain using", "characterize based on", or "define with respect to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "describe in terms of" or "explain in terms of"?

While both are acceptable, "describe in terms of" is generally used when you want to characterize something using specific features. "Explain in terms of" is used when you want to clarify something by relating it to certain concepts.

How does "analyze in light of" differ from "describe in terms of"?

"Analyze in light of" implies a more critical and evaluative approach, whereas "describe in terms of" suggests a more neutral and descriptive approach. When you "analyze in light of" something you are also drawing conclusions and making judgements. When you "describe in terms of" something you are only characterization it based on the criteria chosen.