explained in terms of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explained in terms of" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate an explanation of something in terms of a different thing. For example: "The professor explained the chemistry concept in terms of atomic structure."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Even misbehavior is explained in terms of one's masculinity.

The New York Times - Sports

Usually, it is explained in terms of resources.

The Guardian - Sport

Risk loving may also be explained in terms of status.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Everything about him, he says, can be explained in terms of his background.

The Guardian - Books

In this view, perceptual error is explained in terms of coherence and predictability.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Russia's stance on Syria is often explained in terms of Syria's importance to Moscow.

The New York Times

The magnetospheric substorm also can be explained in terms of magnetic convection driven by magnetic reconnection.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Even the structure of the world of the gods is explained in terms of family.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The fight must itself be justified, and explained, in terms of values".

The New York Times - Books

These results are finally explained in terms of molecular mobility.

Polymer

The observed trends are explained in terms of phenomenological steps.

Chemical Engineering Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "explained in terms of" to clarify complex subjects by relating them to simpler or more familiar concepts. For example, explain quantum physics in terms of everyday wave phenomena.

Common error

Avoid using "explained in terms of" in simple sentences where a direct explanation is more effective. For example, instead of "The delay was explained in terms of bad weather", simply say "The delay was due to bad weather."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explained in terms of" functions as a prepositional phrase used to introduce the specific concepts, frameworks, or factors that provide an explanation for a particular phenomenon or idea. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "explained in terms of" serves as a valuable tool for providing clarity and understanding by relating complex subjects to simpler or more familiar concepts. Ludwig AI validates that the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for diverse applications. Its use is particularly common in scientific, news, and encyclopedia contexts. When employing "explained in terms of", remember to use it where a direct explanation is not sufficient and a specific framework is required. Be sure to consider the many alternatives to add nuance to your writing, such as ""understood through the lens of"" or "accounted for by". By considering the guidance presented, you can effectively and accurately use "explained in terms of" to enhance your written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

understood through the lens of

Changes the structure to emphasize a specific viewpoint or perspective.

accounted for by

Focuses on identifying the cause or reason for something.

interpreted using the framework of

Emphasizes the application of a particular theoretical model or set of ideas.

elucidated by

Highlights the clarification or shedding light on a topic.

attributed to

Connects an effect or outcome to a specific cause or factor.

expressed via

Focuses on the method or means through which something is conveyed or demonstrated.

defined by

Highlights the characteristics or qualities that establish the identity of something.

characterized by

Focuses on describing the distinctive features of something.

related to

Indicates a connection or association between two things.

attributed with

Similar to 'attributed to', but can imply a quality or characteristic.

FAQs

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

Use "explained in terms of" to show how something can be understood using a particular framework or perspective. For instance, "The economic crisis can be "understood through the lens of" supply and demand."

What are some alternatives to "explained in terms of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "accounted for by", "interpreted using the framework of", or "elucidated by" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "explained in terms of" or "explained by"?

"Explained by" is more direct and suitable for simple explanations, while "explained in terms of" is used when the explanation involves a specific framework, concept, or factor. For example, say "The results are explained by the experiment design", but "The results are elucidated by the principles of quantum mechanics."

How does "explained in terms of" differ from "defined by"?

"Explained in terms of" provides a context or mechanism for understanding something, whereas "defined by" specifies the essential characteristics or qualities of something. For instance, "Happiness is "defined by" contentment", but "consumer behavior is "understood through the lens of" economic incentives."