in qualitative terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in qualitative terms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing or analyzing something in a non-numerical or descriptive manner, focusing on qualities rather than quantities. Example: "The project's success can be evaluated in qualitative terms, such as user satisfaction and overall impact on the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The kinetic-theory explanation of viscosity can be simplified by examining it in qualitative terms.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"In qualitative terms, it's unparalleled in Irish architecture in the last 20 years," said Bruce Arnold, an Irish cultural critic and historian.

The New York Times - Arts

Can happiness be 'measured' in absolute terms, like a Gross National Product (G.N.P ., or can it only be defined in qualitative terms?

The New York Times

When a museum owns several works by a single artist or a related group, a hierarchy may be evident, but how does an American painting compare, in qualitative terms, with an African mask or a European woodcut?

The New York Times

Unlike classic plant-and-equipment projects, which create cash flows by enhancing revenue or cutting costs, computer projects are usually justified in qualitative terms -- vague, vogue concepts like "improved information".

The New York Times

As Rob Smyth wrote in 2008: "The cumulative effect of their three games is incontrovertibly awful – three defeats, two goals scored, seven conceded – but there are enough mitigating circumstances to suggest that, in qualitative terms, it was nowhere near that bad".

The Guardian - Sport

Because the entire range of observed effects is not capable of simple quantitative definition, the strength of the shaking is commonly estimated by reference to intensity scales that describe the effects in qualitative terms.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It's not the biggest ETA colony, but it is the most important one in qualitative terms," said ?car El? an ETA expert with the Madrid-based Strategic Studies Group.

The New York Times

What, in qualitative terms, is such a signature?

Geomorphology

The mass transfer process is described in qualitative terms.

Chemical Engineering Science

Less formally and perhaps more typically, realists have attempted to explicate approximate truth in qualitative terms.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in qualitative terms" to introduce descriptions or analyses that focus on the qualities, characteristics, or attributes of a subject, rather than numerical data. This helps frame the discussion as being centered on non-measurable aspects.

Common error

Avoid using "in qualitative terms" when you actually have numerical or measurable data available. If you can quantify the results, it's better to present them directly rather than framing them as qualitative observations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in qualitative terms" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying the manner in which something is described or evaluated. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It indicates that the description is based on qualities or characteristics rather than numerical data.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in qualitative terms" serves as an adverbial phrase used to signify that an evaluation or description is based on qualities or characteristics rather than numerical data. Ludwig confirms its correct usage. It is particularly common in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, indicating its relevance in formal and analytical discussions. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure the analysis focuses on non-measurable aspects and to avoid confusing it with quantitative assessments. Alternatives like "in descriptive terms" or "assessed subjectively" can be used to convey similar meanings, tailoring the expression to the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in descriptive terms

Focuses more on the descriptive nature of the assessment rather than contrasting it with quantitative methods.

in non-quantitative terms

Directly emphasizes the absence of numerical measurement, providing a clear contrast.

from a descriptive perspective

Shifts the focus to the viewpoint, highlighting the descriptive assessment approach.

assessed subjectively

Emphasizes the subjective nature of the evaluation, based on personal opinions and interpretations.

evaluated based on attributes

Highlights the evaluation based on specific characteristics and qualities.

in subjective terms

This focuses on the personal interpretation and judgement of the subject.

considering the characteristics

This emphasizes the traits and properties being taken into account.

in conceptual terms

This points to understanding something through ideas and concepts rather than concrete data.

regarding its nature

This shifts the focus to the inherent qualities and essence of the subject.

with respect to its quality

This highlights the focus on the standard and excellence of the subject.

FAQs

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

Use "in qualitative terms" to introduce an explanation or assessment that describes the non-numerical characteristics or attributes of something. For instance, "The user experience was evaluated "in qualitative terms", focusing on ease of use and overall satisfaction."

What are some alternatives to "in qualitative terms"?

You can use alternatives such as "in descriptive terms", "in non-quantitative terms", or "assessed subjectively" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "in qualitative terms" versus providing quantitative data?

Use "in qualitative terms" when you are discussing aspects that are difficult or impossible to measure numerically, such as opinions, feelings, or subjective experiences. If you have numerical data, present that directly, and if necessary, supplement it with a qualitative description.

How does using "in qualitative terms" affect the tone of my writing?

Using "in qualitative terms" can make your writing sound more analytical and thoughtful, signaling that you are considering the nuances and complexities of a subject beyond simple numerical measurements. It suggests a deeper exploration of the characteristics and attributes involved.