low terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "low terms" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to refer to "low terms" in a mathematical context, but it is not a standard expression used in general writing. Example: "The fraction can be simplified to its lowest terms."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The word slang started as a low term for low terms – an example of what it named.

The Guardian - Books

Elias, who as a restricted free agent could not reach an agreement with the team before the start of the 1999-2000 seagreedagreed to those low terms a few weeks into the season after skipping training camp.

The New York Times - Sports

There's no obvious reason why those sat on the sofa are thought of in such low terms, but it may have something to do with a sense that they are going against the inner sanctum that we pretend we are a part of.

The Guardian - Sport

Follow David Dayen on Twitter.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Importantly, both InterPro and Pathway use short and controlled vocabularies with low term diversification.

DNA Research

"Trade" is a version of "on the down-low" – terms used within black LGBT communities to describe a man who doesn't "appear gay" but who engages in sex with men unbeknownst to his family and most of his friends.

The Guardian - Opinion

Reduce to lowest terms.

The New Yorker

"It is notable that in the areas where income is lowest, terms and conditions are worst.

The Guardian - Books

The Euclidean algorithm is useful for reducing a common fraction to lowest terms.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For λ= p/q, rational in lowest terms, Qλ≅On (n= q−p+1) with UHF fixed point algebra of type (pq)∞.

Journal of Functional Analysis

Simplify the fraction down to lowest terms.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to simplifying fractions, use the phrase "lowest terms" instead of "low terms".

Common error

Avoid using "low terms" when discussing fractions or mathematical expressions. The correct phrase is "lowest terms", which signifies that the fraction has been simplified as much as possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "low terms" functions primarily as a noun phrase, although its usage is questionable. Ludwig AI considers the phrase not correct and it's often misused or not recognized in standard English. Examples show varied contexts, lacking a consistent grammatical function.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "low terms" is non-standard and often misused. Ludwig AI considers the phrase not correct, and its intended meaning can be unclear. In mathematical contexts, "lowest terms" is the correct phrase to use when simplifying fractions. When referring to unfavorable conditions, consider alternatives like "poor terms" or "inferior conditions". While "low terms" appears in some contexts, it lacks the precision and clarity required for formal or professional communication, therefore it's best to use alternative phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduced terms

Focuses on simplification or lessening of conditions or expressions.

unfavorable terms

Highlights the disadvantageous or adverse nature of the conditions.

minimal requirements

Refers to the least acceptable or necessary conditions, shifting the focus from a general term to specific requirements.

simplified expressions

Emphasizes making something easier to understand by reducing its complexity.

inferior conditions

Highlights a state of being below average or standard.

minimum standards

Refers to the least acceptable level of quality or performance.

basic stipulations

Emphasizes the fundamental and essential elements of an agreement or requirement.

degraded state

Focuses on a condition that has deteriorated or declined in quality.

rock-bottom prices

Focuses on the lowest possible price point, specific to financial contexts.

lowest common denominator

Emphasizes a standard that is acceptable to all, even if it is not ideal.

FAQs

How is "low terms" used in a sentence?

While the phrase "low terms" is not standard, contexts may include finance, mathematics, or general assessment. For mathematical contexts, "lowest terms" is preferred. The usage of "low terms" may vary.

What's the difference between "low terms" and "lowest terms"?

"Lowest terms" is the standard phrase used in mathematics to describe a fraction that has been simplified as much as possible. "Low terms" is not a recognized mathematical term and should be avoided in that context.

Which is correct, "low terms" or "poor terms"?

While neither phrase is ideal, "poor terms" /s/poor+terms might be used to describe unfavorable conditions in a negotiation or agreement. However, "low terms" is generally not recognized as correct in standard English.

What can I say instead of "low terms" in a mathematical context?

In mathematics, use the phrase "lowest terms" when referring to simplifying fractions. Alternatives might include "simplest form".