in what terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in what terms" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to ask questions that are seeking clarification about the details of a situation. For example: "Can you explain the deal to me in what terms?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

What is President Bush's position on abortion, and in what terms has he discussed the topic?

The New York Times

"Well," she says, with a professorial air of correction, "one's got to know in what terms one's talking.

The Guardian - Books

Progress towards a consensus will require wide agreement about what needs to be discussed, and in what terms.

Nature

Additional aims are to describe how risks are dealt with (in what terms, extent and depth) and also to examine how risks are advocated to be handled in the future.

Safety Science

But not why, and in what terms, and what it means for the world we live in: our notions of community, and the right to public space; our ideas about celebrity and protecting celebrity from the world.

The Guardian - Books

Dreams of a Life is not without flaws: Joyce's sisters declined to be interviewed, and the absence of testimony from them is arguably a problem, as is the absence of a clear description from Morley of how she approached them and in what terms she was rebuffed.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

But if they are allowed in, on what terms will that be?

The Economist

In exactly what terms can SFL theory refute this criticism and conclusively justify their use?

Functional Linguistics

The devil is in what those terms might be hiding.

The New York Times

It engages in what it terms direct action.

The Guardian

Living in what, in terms of national politics, is largely a one-party state can be frustrating.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in what terms" to precisely request clarification on the language or terminology used in a discussion or agreement. This ensures clarity and avoids misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid using "in what terms" when you actually mean "under what conditions". The former refers to the specific language used, while the latter refers to the circumstances or stipulations involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in what terms" functions as an interrogative prepositional phrase. It typically introduces a question seeking clarification on the specific language, terminology, or wording used in a particular context. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in what terms" is a versatile tool for seeking clarification on the language used in various situations. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and commonly employed across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. While it is often confused with other terms such as "under what conditions", mastering its specific usage will lead you to more precise questions and answers. Using alternatives such as "with what wording" can also help you vary your writing and speaking style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with what wording

Highlights the precise choice of words used, shifting the emphasis slightly.

under what conditions

Focuses on the circumstances or prerequisites involved, rather than the specific language or expressions used.

using which expressions

Emphasizes the specific phrases or idioms employed, providing a more descriptive alternative.

in what manner

Emphasizes the way something is done or expressed, shifting the focus from specific wording to overall style.

through what language

Focuses on the communicative method employed, broadening the scope beyond just terminology.

by what means

Highlights the method or process used, instead of the words or expressions chosen.

in which formulation

Refers to the way something is presented or structured, rather than just the individual words.

how specifically

Directs attention to the particular details or aspects, offering a less formal alternative.

in what respect

Asks about the specific aspect or detail being considered, instead of the terminology.

on what basis

Focuses on the foundation or justification for something, rather than the phrasing.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "in what terms"?

You can use alternatives such as "with what wording", "using which expressions", or "how specifically" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "in what terms" or "under what conditions"?

The choice depends on the context. Use "in what terms" when asking about the specific language used, and use "under what conditions" when asking about the circumstances or stipulations. Check "under what conditions".

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

It's suitable when you need clarification on the specific language, terminology, or phrasing used in a statement, agreement, or discussion.

How to use "in what terms" in a sentence?

You can use it to inquire about the specifics of a deal or agreement: "Can you explain the deal to me "in what terms"?"