on what terms

USAGE SUMMARY

"on what terms" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to an agreement or arrangement between two parties. For example: "The two parties could not reach an agreement on what terms to use in the deal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

No-one is even sure on what terms he handed over power; his own, or was he pushed?

BBC

Should one live with loneliness and, if so, on what terms?

The Guardian - Books

"She was the one who suggested when we met and on what terms.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The question is on what terms.

The New York Times - Arts

And on what terms will these lines cross again?

The Economist

"The only question is when and on what terms".

The New York Times

To whom should it lend and on what terms?

The Economist

The debate among the rescuers is how and on what terms (see article).

The Economist

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

The Economist

The "man of peace" sobriquet no longer sounds so jarring.The question is: peace on what terms?

The Economist

They had simply switched sides, though nobody knew on what terms.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing negotiations or agreements, use "on what terms" to clearly define the specific conditions or arrangements that are being considered. This ensures that all parties understand the parameters of the discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "on what terms" when referring to general preferences or desires. This phrase is best suited for describing concrete conditions or stipulations, not subjective opinions or feelings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on what terms" functions as an interrogative prepositional phrase used to inquire about or specify the conditions, stipulations, or provisions under which an action, agreement, or situation is to take place. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples illustrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on what terms" serves as a crucial tool for specifying conditions or stipulations in various contexts. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media, and professional settings. Its function is primarily interrogative, seeking clarification about the arrangements governing a situation. To ensure clarity, it's best used when referring to concrete conditions rather than subjective opinions. Alternatives include "under which conditions" and "subject to what provisions". Remember to focus on concrete conditions rather than subjective opinions and feelings and by doing so you'll master the art of using "on what terms" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under which conditions

Replaces "terms" with "conditions", emphasizing the stipulations or requirements.

subject to what provisions

Focuses on the specific clauses or conditions that apply.

according to what stipulations

Highlights the agreements or demands that must be met.

based on what agreements

Emphasizes the foundational agreements that are in place.

given what arrangements

Refers to the specific plans or agreements that dictate the situation.

on what grounds

Focuses on the justification or reasons for a particular action or decision.

by what parameters

Highlights the measurable factors or boundaries that define the situation.

under what specifications

Focuses on the detailed requirements that must be followed.

depending on what regulations

Highlights the rules and guidelines that determine the situation.

contingent on what prerequisites

Focuses on the necessary conditions that must be satisfied beforehand.

FAQs

How can I use "on what terms" in a sentence?

Use "on what terms" to inquire about or specify the conditions of an agreement, negotiation, or relationship. For example, "The question is "on what terms" will the deal be finalized?"

What are some alternatives to "on what terms"?

You can use alternatives like "under which conditions", "subject to what provisions", or "according to what stipulations" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "on what terms" in formal writing?

Yes, "on what terms" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing legal agreements, business negotiations, or political situations. Its clarity and precision make it valuable in such contexts.

What's the difference between "on what terms" and "under what circumstances"?

"On what terms" refers specifically to the conditions or stipulations of an agreement or arrangement, whereas "under what circumstances" refers more broadly to the situational conditions or context in which something occurs.