in those words

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in those words" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that was previously said by another person in exactly the same words. For example, "John said that what he wanted most was to find happiness, and he repeated those words to me multiple times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Although not in those words.

The New York Times

There is little solace in those words".

The New York Times

Though not precisely in those words.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Not in those words," Comey replied.

The New Yorker

"By your father, explicitly, in those words?" "Yes".

Independent

"Not in those words, no," Mr Lamo said.

Independent

There was practical depth in those words alone, though.

The New Yorker

There was an echo of Paine in those words.

The New Yorker

"No, not in those words," Browne Sanders said.

The New York Times - Sports

There's both blitheness and despair in those words.

The New York Times

Not in those words, or, in fact, in his casket.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in those words" when you want to indicate that someone has expressed something using specific phrasing, and you want to draw attention to the exact wording.

Common error

Avoid using "in those words" if you are merely summarizing someone's point without regard for their precise language. Use phrases like "to that effect" instead if you're not focusing on the specific wording.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in those words" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used adverbially to modify a verb or clause. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates that a statement was made using specific, memorable phrasing. Examples illustrate its use in reporting speech or ideas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in those words" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase that emphasizes the specific phrasing used in a statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s appropriate to use it when the exact wording is significant. Predominantly found in news and media, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. Remember to use it when you want to highlight the specific choice of words, but avoid it if you're only providing a general summary. Alternatives like "in so many words" or "to that effect" may be more fitting if you don't need to emphasize precise language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in so many words

Similar to "in those words", suggesting a near-direct expression of the idea.

to that effect

Indicates that the general idea was conveyed, though not necessarily verbatim.

using that language

Focuses on the specific language used, implying direct quotation or a very close paraphrase.

with that phrasing

Highlights the specific choice of words and their arrangement.

in similar terms

Indicates a paraphrase or a related expression of the same concept.

in that terminology

Emphasizes the use of specific technical or formal language.

according to that statement

Directly references a particular declaration or assertion.

put another way

Suggests rephrasing the original statement for clarity or emphasis.

as expressed before

Refers back to a previously stated idea or sentiment.

in that vein

Implies continuing a similar line of thought or expression.

FAQs

How can I use "in those words" in a sentence?

You can use "in those words" to indicate that someone expressed something using specific phrasing. For example, "He didn't apologize "in those words", but his actions suggested remorse."

What's the difference between "in those words" and "to that effect"?

"In those words" implies a near-direct quotation or close paraphrase, while "to that effect" suggests that the general idea was conveyed, but not necessarily verbatim.

What can I say instead of "in those words"?

Alternatives include "in so many words", "using that language", or "with that phrasing", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "in those words" in formal writing?

Yes, "in those words" can be used in formal writing, particularly when you need to emphasize the specific language used by someone else. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.