in human terms

USAGE SUMMARY

"in human terms" is an expression that can be used in written English.
It can be used to explain something in terms that are more familiar or easier to understand. For example: "The new technology may be difficult to comprehend in scientific terms, however, in human terms, it simply means that people can now do X, Y and Z."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Except, perhaps, in human terms.

The New Yorker

This is obviously costly in human terms.

The New Yorker

What would this mean in human terms?

The New York Times

I don't feel good in human terms".

The New York Times - Science

The cost in human terms is immeasurable.

The Guardian

In human terms, it is cruel.

The New York Times

Well, long over in human terms.

The Washington Post

And in human terms, I think that's even harder.

The Guardian - Opinion

Patty Cake is almost 60, in human terms.

The New York Times

Atoms with less energy are "colder", in human terms.

The Guardian

That length of time is, in human terms, "forever".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in human terms" to bridge the gap between technical jargon and everyday understanding, making complex topics accessible to a broader audience.

Common error

Avoid using "in human terms" excessively in casual conversations; it can sound overly formal or condescending. Opt for simpler phrasing unless you are specifically clarifying a complex subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in human terms" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the perspective from which something is being described or understood. As Ludwig AI confirms, it helps in explaining complex matters in a simpler, more relatable way.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

15%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in human terms" serves as a valuable tool for simplifying complex information and making it more accessible to a general audience. As Ludwig AI points out, it functions as an adverbial phrase that shifts the perspective towards relatable, everyday experiences. Its usage is most prevalent in news and media, followed by academia, indicating its importance in conveying information clearly across various fields. While generally neutral to formal in register, overuse in informal settings should be avoided to prevent sounding condescending. By using "in human terms", communicators can bridge the gap between technical jargon and common understanding, ensuring broader comprehension and engagement with the subject matter.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

From a human perspective

Emphasizes the viewpoint being human-centered.

In layman's terms

Focuses on simplifying complex topics for the average person.

In everyday language

Stresses the use of common vocabulary and phrasing.

In relatable terms

Focuses on making something connect with personal experiences.

In understandable language

Highlights the clarity and ease of comprehension.

To put it into perspective

Implies adding context for easier understanding.

Putting it simply

Stresses directness and lack of complication.

Speaking plainly

Emphasizes direct and unambiguous communication.

From a practical standpoint

Highlights real-world applicability and relevance.

Considering the human element

Highlights the importance of the human aspect in decision-making or analysis.

FAQs

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

Use "in human terms" to translate complex information into simpler, more relatable concepts. For example, "The economic impact, "in human terms", means many families will struggle to afford basic necessities."

What are some alternatives to using "in human terms"?

You can use alternatives like "from a human perspective", "in layman's terms", or "in understandable language depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "in human terms"?

It's appropriate when you need to simplify complex or abstract concepts so that they are easier for a general audience to understand, especially when discussing technical or specialized subjects.

What does "in human terms" imply about the information being presented?

It implies that the information is being presented in a way that considers the average person's understanding, focusing on relatability and practical implications rather than technical details.