explain in simpler terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explain in simpler terms" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to clarify or make something easier to understand. Example: "The concept of quantum mechanics can be quite complex; could you explain it in simpler terms for those of us who are not scientists?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

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

University of California, Berkeley

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

The Guardian

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

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

Focusing on Endangered Species to Teach Simple Vocabulary and Geography Terms First, explain in simple terms the definition of an "endangered species": plants and animals that, for a variety of reasons (including pollution, climate change, people choosing to live in areas where the species live, and more), are in danger of disappearing forever.

The New York Times

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

It is designed to explain in simple terms such notions as secularism or anti-Semitism (last weekend a Jewish community centre in Paris was burnt down, the latest in a string of anti-Semitic attacks across France, many of them blamed on Muslim youths).

The Economist

It would not be difficult, though, to encourage some members of the academic community — academics, professional staff, and those in retirement — to draw on their experience and explain in simple terms what academic life is all about.

International Journal for Educational Integrity

Although Gerold expects some initial resistance to this "additional burden," he nonetheless believes that "if you spend 10 million [Euro] on a scientific project" it is reasonable to expect the research team involved "to explain in simple terms what they are doing, how they are doing it, why they are doing it".

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain in simpler terms", be specific about the audience you're trying to reach. This helps tailor the explanation effectively.

Common error

Avoid over-simplification to the point of inaccuracy. Ensure the core message remains intact, even when using simpler language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain in simpler terms" functions as a request for clarification or simplification. It's used to ask someone to rephrase a concept or idea using more accessible language. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and understanding.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explain in simpler terms" is a common and grammatically correct request for clarification. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and shows its widespread use in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While it's generally neutral in tone, more formal alternatives like "clarify in layman's terms" might be preferred in certain settings. When using the phrase, ensure you are not oversimplifying to the point of inaccuracy and consider who your audience is to make sure they understand what you are trying to express.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify in layman's terms

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

simplify your explanation

Focuses on making the explanation less complex.

rephrase in plain language

Emphasizes using straightforward and easily understandable language.

put it more simply

A more concise way of asking for simplification.

break it down for me

An informal way to ask for a simplified explanation.

explain it in everyday language

Specifies the type of language to use for simplification.

translate into simpler language

Suggests converting complex language into something more accessible.

dumb it down

A more direct, though potentially offensive, way to ask for simplification.

offer a basic explanation

Requests a fundamental explanation without complex details.

make it more accessible

Focuses on making the information easier to understand for a wider audience.

FAQs

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

You can use "explain in simpler terms" to request clarification, such as, "Could you "explain in simpler terms" what quantum entanglement is?"

What is a more formal alternative to "explain in simpler terms"?

A more formal alternative would be to request clarification "clarify in layman's terms" or to ask for a more "accessible explanation".

Is it appropriate to use "explain in simpler terms" in professional settings?

Yes, it is generally acceptable, but consider the context. If a more formal tone is required, opt for phrases like ""clarify in layman's terms"" or request a "simplified explanation".

What's the difference between "explain in simpler terms" and "dumb it down"?

"Dumb it down" implies oversimplification, potentially at the expense of accuracy, whereas ""explain in simpler terms"" focuses on clarity and accessibility without sacrificing essential information.