explain in simple terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explain in simple terms" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking someone to clarify a complex topic or idea in a way that is easy to understand. Example: "Can you explain in simple terms how this technology works for someone who is not familiar with it?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

The URA will help explain, in simple terms, how machine learning technology works.

University of California, Berkeley

"Her frustration prompted me to look for books to explain in simple terms what cerebral palsy is.

The Guardian

You can normally explain in simple terms where in a crystal each atom sits – they are very symmetrical.

The Guardian

But, difficult landlords aside, what we really need is a better way to explain, in simple terms, the information we benefits officers require in order to calculate your benefits.

The Guardian

So actually, I was the ideal viewer for Inside Einstein's Mind: the Enigma of Space and Time as it attempted to explain, in simple terms, the German genius's theory of general relativity.

Independent

John Connor, Dunfermline, Fife   Further to Grace Dent's column (30 May), can anyone with medical training please explain, in simple terms, why it should not be a matter of national outrage that a British hospital has seen fit to discharge a patient who still has drains inserted in a wound following surgery?

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Most people don't want to feel dumb and some may be afraid to ask "what does that mean?" I'm just encouraging you to get over that and ask for the MD or other reporting person to please explain in simpler terms.

Forbes

Nanotechnologies (MIT) explains in simple terms, yet precisely what we did.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It explains in simple terms the mechanism of vaccines, and even includes explanations of how injections work, including groundbreaking revelations like 'this might sting for a moment'.

The Guardian

One of XKCD's most popular strips was titled "Up-Goer Five"; a diagram of the 1960s Saturn V rocket explained in simple terms.

The Guardian - Books

But the country's politics can not be explained in simple terms of conservative versus liberal or even religious versus secular.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When explaining complex concepts, use analogies or metaphors to relate the unfamiliar to something your audience already understands.

Common error

Avoid over-simplifying to the point of inaccuracy. Ensure the simplified explanation retains the core truth and doesn't mislead the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain in simple terms" functions as a request or instruction for clarification. It sets the expectation that the explanation should be easily understood, avoiding jargon or complex language. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase is perfectly usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explain in simple terms" is a common and grammatically correct way to request a clear and understandable explanation, as Ludwig confirms. It's frequently used in news, academic, and scientific contexts to bridge the gap between complex information and a wider audience. While alternatives like "clarify in layman's terms" or "simplify the explanation" exist, the core purpose remains the same: to ensure comprehension. When using the phrase, it's important to avoid over-simplification that could lead to inaccuracies. By using analogies and metaphors, you can effectively relate unfamiliar concepts to your audience. In conclusion, "explain in simple terms" is a versatile and valuable tool for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simplify the explanation

Directly asks for the explanation to be made less complex.

clarify in layman's terms

Replaces "explain" with "clarify" and specifies the audience as non-experts.

elucidate in plain language

Substitutes "explain" with the more formal "elucidate" and "simple terms" with "plain language".

break it down simply

Uses a more informal and conversational phrasing.

put it in understandable words

Focuses on the choice of words to ensure comprehension.

demystify for a general audience

Implies removing complexity or mystery to make something accessible.

translate into accessible language

Suggests converting complex ideas into a more readily understood form.

present in a simplified manner

Emphasizes the method of presentation to ensure clarity.

decode in straightforward terms

Implies unraveling a complex code or concept.

render comprehensible easily

Focuses on the outcome of making something understandable.

FAQs

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

You can use "explain in simple terms" when asking someone to clarify a complex topic or idea in a way that is easy to understand. For example, "Can you explain in simple terms how this technology works for someone who is not familiar with it?"

What are some alternatives to "explain in simple terms"?

Alternatives include "clarify in layman's terms", "simplify the explanation", or "elucidate in plain language" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

When is it appropriate to ask someone to "explain in simple terms"?

It's appropriate when you encounter a concept or subject that is difficult to understand due to technical jargon or complexity. It ensures clarity and avoids misinterpretations.

How does "explain in simple terms" differ from "explain in detail"?

"Explain in simple terms" focuses on making something understandable to a general audience, often omitting complexities. "Explain in detail", on the other hand, aims to provide a comprehensive and thorough explanation, including all relevant nuances and technicalities.