let me paraphrase

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "let me paraphrase" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that you are about to restate something that has been said in simpler terms. For example: "The process requires several complex steps," my supervisor said. "Let me paraphrase: you'll need to take a few steps in order to get the job done."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Let me paraphrase Mel Brooks: How do you get even with her?

The New York Times

Let me paraphrase: how to get those of non-European origin enthralled with what has been traditionally presented as an exclusively European/Caucasian art form?

The Guardian - Music

Now let me paraphrase the link between the lyrics of the song and the academic calendar: "After three years of expulsion from my previous school, based on my gender, I am finally considering attending my school prom enade) to accompany our Year 11 and Sixth Form students for an end-of-year celebration.

The Guardian

Speaking about the alleged threat from the individual at the bank, Mr Johnston said: "Let me paraphrase, I was told that if I stood in the way of this deal happening, they said we're gonna cancel your credit line tonight".

BBC

"Let me paraphrase what President Obama said recently.

Los Angeles Times

Let me paraphrase -- It is her or me!

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Expanding copyright law to bar online access to copyrighted materials without the copyright holder's consent, or to bar linking to or paraphrasing copyrighted materials without the copyright holder's consent... Let me repeat that.

TechCrunch

I'm paraphrasing here, but he once said something to the effect of: "So let me get this straight.

The Guardian - Sport

Liverpool fans paraphrased an old Kop song in November to make a point about ticket prices: "Let me tell you a story of a poor boy … 1990 £4 2000 £244; 2010 £43 20200 ?" Palace fans greeted Chelsea with a banner reading: "Roman's dirty money is a disease that has plagued our game".

The Guardian - Sport

"Let me tell this.

The New Yorker

"Let me take that".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "let me paraphrase", ensure the rephrased statement accurately reflects the original meaning without introducing unintended distortions or biases.

Common error

Avoid reducing a nuanced argument to a simplistic soundbite when using "let me paraphrase". Ensure that the core meaning and important qualifiers are retained to prevent misinterpretation or distortion of the original message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let me paraphrase" serves as an introductory phrase. Its primary function is to signal that the speaker or writer is about to restate something, often to simplify or clarify it. Ludwig AI's analysis aligns with this understanding, indicating its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

4%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "let me paraphrase" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that signals an intention to simplify or clarify a statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves as an introductory phrase to help ensure understanding. While its register is generally neutral, its usage is more frequent in News & Media and Science contexts. When using "let me paraphrase", be mindful of over-simplification and ensure the rephrased statement accurately reflects the original meaning. Consider alternatives like "let me rephrase that" or "in other words" depending on the desired level of formality and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let me rephrase that

Indicates a direct revision of a previously stated idea, aiming for better clarity or accuracy.

let me restate that

Similar to rephrasing, but emphasizes a more formal and precise re-articulation of the original statement.

let me put it another way

Emphasizes rephrasing for clarity, focusing on altering the expression rather than summarizing.

in other words

Introduces a simpler or more direct explanation of something already mentioned.

to put it simply

Signals an intention to simplify a complex idea, reducing it to its most basic elements.

what I mean to say is

Clarifies the speaker's intention, correcting potential misunderstandings of a previous statement.

let me clarify

Focuses on making something clearer by adding more detail or correcting a misunderstanding.

let me explain further

Promises additional explanation to provide a deeper understanding.

let me summarize

Indicates that you are about to provide a condensed version of what has already been said.

let me break it down

Suggests a simplification of a complex subject by dividing it into smaller, more manageable parts.

FAQs

How to use "let me paraphrase" in a sentence?

You can use "let me paraphrase" to introduce a simplified version of a statement. For example, "The legal document was complex; let me paraphrase: you have to sign here."

What can I say instead of "let me paraphrase"?

You can use alternatives like "let me rephrase that", "in other words", or "to put it simply" depending on the context.

When should I use "let me paraphrase" over other similar phrases?

"Let me paraphrase" is best used when you want to simplify a complex statement while maintaining its original intent. If you are merely clarifying a point, "let me clarify" might be more appropriate.

Is "let me paraphrase" formal or informal?

"Let me paraphrase" is generally suitable for both formal and informal settings. However, in highly formal contexts, consider alternatives like "let me restate that" for added precision.