in social terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in social terms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing concepts, issues, or phenomena in relation to their social implications or contexts. Example: "The policy changes will have significant effects in social terms, impacting community dynamics and relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Parents are encouraged to discount such children as socially dead (Sweeting and Gilhooly 1997), as non-existent in social terms, and to wait patiently for the day of their biological death.

Ethnicity and Health

In social terms, those are civilizers.

The New Yorker

Economically irrational, certainly, but in social terms wholly comprehensible.

The Guardian - Opinion

They are cheerful, gutsy, practical - and in social terms, right at the bottom of the pile.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As in earlier works, Mr. Andriessen interprets the creative life in social terms, and skeptically.

The New York Times - Arts

In social terms, and economic ones, it is perhaps the most important time of year.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

In artistic and social terms, it is still a relevant question.

The New York Times - Arts

The result has been a quiet revolution: a reconsideration of the whole story of photography in newly conceived social terms.

The New York Times - Arts

I mean it in fundamental economic and social terms.

Huffington Post

Yet this situation is not normal – or, if you prefer that in social media terms, #notnormal.

The Guardian

"Eight days in social media terms is quite slow," says SCA's spokeswoman.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in social terms" when you want to analyze or describe something based on its impact on or relevance to society and its structures. It helps to frame the discussion within a broader social context.

Common error

Avoid using "in social terms" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "socially" or "in society" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in social terms" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a clause or sentence. Ludwig AI examples show it introduces a perspective or framework for analysis related to societal impacts, norms, or dynamics. It serves to specify that the assessment is being made with regard to social considerations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in social terms" serves to frame discussions and analyses within a social context, emphasizing the societal impact or relevance of a given topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's considered grammatically correct and shows a common usage pattern in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. While versatile, it is less suited for informal contexts. When aiming for clarity and precision, consider it a valuable tool for focusing on the social dimensions of your subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in societal contexts

Uses "societal" as a synonym for "social", emphasizing the broader context of society.

in terms of social impact

Specifically addresses the effects and influence on society.

from a sociological perspective

Replaces "in social terms" with a more academic and formal tone, explicitly referencing sociology.

concerning social aspects

Highlights specific facets related to society.

regarding social implications

Focuses on the consequences and effects within a social framework.

assessing social ramifications

Focuses on the far-reaching consequences within a social structure.

with respect to social dynamics

Emphasizes the interaction and forces within a social group.

considering its social dimension

Highlights the social element as one aspect to consider.

relative to social norms

Considers the phrase in relation to established social standards and expectations.

from a community standpoint

Shifts the focus to the perspective of a community rather than society at large.

FAQs

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

You can use "in social terms" to introduce a perspective or analysis related to societal impact or structure. For example: "In social terms, the new policy could lead to greater inequality."

What are some alternatives to "in social terms"?

Alternatives include phrases like "from a sociological perspective", "in societal contexts", or "regarding social implications" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "in social terms" in academic writing?

Yes, "in social terms" is appropriate for academic writing, especially when discussing the societal effects or relevance of a particular subject. It provides a clear indication that you are analyzing something from a social viewpoint.

What's the difference between "in social terms" and "socially"?

"In social terms" is a broader phrase that introduces a social perspective or analysis, while "socially" is an adverb that describes how something relates to society. For example, "The policy is beneficial "socially"" versus "In social terms, the policy addresses inequality."