explain the terms

USAGE SUMMARY

"explain the terms" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used when asking someone to clarify or define specific words or concepts in a sentence or text. Example: "Can you please explain the terms 'adverse effect' and 'mitigation' in this paragraph?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"They explain the terms of the financing.

The New York Times

Boeing planned to hold information sessions at its plants Tuesday to explain the terms.

The New York Times

Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, the U.S.-educated negotiator, was summoned over the weekend to explain the terms.

The New Yorker

"He has to behave," the administrator in charge said when I asked her to explain the terms.

The New York Times

The United Nations negotiators -- Mervyn Patterson, a frenetic Northern Irelander, and Jean Arnault, a suave Frenchman -- later explain the terms of the deal they have negotiated.

The New York Times - Magazine

Allam did not explain the terms on which he would walk away, given that the club is heavily indebted to him.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

I interrupted only once, to explain the term arms race to my bewildered children.

The New York Times - Travel

How could you explain the term to young children who are not familiar with fractions?

The New York Times

To explain the term "works of authorship," the Act sets forth a statutory list of categories within the term.

Harvard University

Asked again to explain the term, Ryan replied: "Rape is rape and there's no splitting hairs over rape".

The Guardian

(b) We explain the term disability and note some of the major factors that are considered in determining whether you are disabled in §§ 416.905 through 416.910.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain the terms" in your writing, ensure that the explanation is tailored to your audience's level of understanding. Avoid using jargon or complex language when explaining terms to a general audience.

Common error

Avoid simply restating the terms without providing a clear and understandable explanation. Readers may already know the words but not their specific meaning in the given context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain the terms" functions as a request or instruction for clarification. It directs someone to provide a detailed account or definition of specific words or concepts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Academia

24%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

16%

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "explain the terms" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to request clarification or definition of specific words or concepts. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for diverse writing contexts, from academic papers to news articles. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, academic writing, and wiki entries. When using this phrase, remember to tailor your explanations to the audience's understanding and avoid simply restating the terms without providing clear explanations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify the terms

Focuses on making the terms clearer rather than a full explanation.

define the terms

Emphasizes providing a specific definition for each term.

elucidate the terms

Implies a more in-depth and detailed explanation.

interpret the terms

Highlights the act of understanding and giving meaning to the terms.

spell out the terms

Suggests explaining the terms in a very straightforward and simple manner.

detail the terms

Focuses on providing a comprehensive description of the terms.

break down the terms

Suggests simplifying complex terms into more understandable parts.

expound upon the terms

Implies a thorough and elaborate explanation of the terms.

demystify the terms

Focuses on making the terms less confusing or mysterious.

describe the terms

Emphasizes providing a general account or representation of the terms.

FAQs

How do I use "explain the terms" in a sentence?

You can use "explain the terms" when you want someone to clarify or define specific words or concepts. For example, "Can you explain the terms 'quantum entanglement' and 'superposition'?"

What can I say instead of "explain the terms"?

You can use alternatives like "clarify the terms", "define the terms", or "elucidate the terms" depending on the context.

Is it better to "explain the terms" or "define the terms"?

Both "explain the terms" and "define the terms" are correct, but "define the terms" is more appropriate when a precise definition is needed, while "explain the terms" is suitable for providing a broader understanding.

When should I use "explain the terms" in my writing?

Use "explain the terms" when introducing technical or unfamiliar vocabulary to your audience. This ensures clarity and prevents misinterpretations. Provide examples or real-world applications to further enhance understanding.