in clear terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in clear terms" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that something should be explained or stated plainly and understandably. Example: "The teacher explained the complex topic in clear terms so that all the students could grasp the concept."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He sees things in clear terms -- good and bad".

The New York Times

"This document sets out in clear terms what these right are".

The New York Times

I try to explain what's happening in clear terms and answer his questions.

The Washington Post

The investigators go on to condemn both sides in clear terms.

The New York Times

Haley also, in her interview with Politico, stated, in clear terms, what Brzezinski did not quite say.

The New Yorker

The "rules" Iran is accused of breaking are not vague, but rather spelled out in clear terms.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Real Clear Politics polling average in the state showed his spike and tumble in clear terms.

The Washington Post

Few but the most extreme submissions received by Ruddock demand in clear terms the "freedom" to expel gay school children.

The Guardian

The presentation lays out the deal in clear terms, describing the spending backstop as "automatic across-the-board cuts ('sequestration').

The New York Times

And he has spoken out admirably against sexual promiscuity among teenagers in clear terms of right and wrong, emphasizing the consequences involved.

The New York Times

In a statement, Harris said, "This case demonstrates in clear terms that California's campaign-finance laws are in desperate need of reform.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in clear terms", ensure that the surrounding language supports the clarity you're aiming for. Avoid complex sentence structures or jargon that could undermine the overall understanding.

Common error

While "in clear terms" emphasizes clarity, avoid using it excessively within a single piece of writing. Overuse can make the writing sound repetitive and less impactful; instead, vary your language to achieve the same effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in clear terms" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which something is communicated or expressed. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, highlighting its role in emphasizing plain and understandable explanations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in clear terms" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to emphasize clarity and comprehensibility in communication. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media and academic contexts, it serves to assure the audience that information is presented plainly and understandably. While effective, it's advisable to avoid overuse and consider related phrases like ""in definite terms"" or ""in lucid terms"" to enhance writing variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in definite terms

Emphasizes precision and lack of ambiguity.

in unambiguous terms

Stresses the absence of any possible misinterpretation.

in no uncertain terms

Highlights the forceful and resolute nature of the statement.

in lucid terms

Highlights the ease of understanding and clarity of expression.

in straightforward terms

Focuses on the directness and simplicity of the explanation.

clearly articulated

Emphasizes the well-defined and coherent expression of an idea.

in plain language

Implies the use of simple and accessible vocabulary.

explicitly stated

Highlights the direct and overt nature of the statement.

unmistakably

Indicates that something is impossible to misunderstand or ignore.

without reservation

Suggests a complete and unreserved expression of opinion or fact.

FAQs

How can I use "in clear terms" in a sentence?

You can use "in clear terms" to emphasize that something is explained simply and understandably, for example: "The manual explains the procedure "in clear terms", making it easy for anyone to follow".

What are some alternatives to "in clear terms"?

Alternatives to "in clear terms" include "in definite terms", "in lucid terms", or "in straightforward terms", which all suggest a similar idea of clarity and explicitness.

Is it better to say "in clear terms" or "clearly"?

The choice between "in clear terms" and "clearly" depends on the context. "Clearly" is a more general adverb, while "in clear terms" specifically emphasizes the explicitness and comprehensibility of a statement or explanation.

What does "in no uncertain terms" mean and how is it different from "in clear terms"?

"In no uncertain terms" emphasizes a forceful and resolute expression, whereas "in clear terms" simply highlights the comprehensibility of the information. Both phrases aim for clarity but differ in their tone and emphasis.