put in plain words

USAGE SUMMARY

"put in plain words" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to explain something in a concise and clear way, such as when trying to give instructions or provide an explanation. For example: "Would you please put it in plain words so I can understand more clearly?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"We take the time to put in plain words the importance of vaccination and answer their questions.

Unicef

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The exhibition, which is touring from the University of Iowa's art museum, glosses a genre of recent photography characterized by "fabricated melodrama," or, to put it in plain words, set-up situations in which the artist or actors feign emotional intensity for the camera -- often love, despair, fear or conflict of some kind or another.

The New York Times

To put it in plain words, Sanidas said that anyone has the right to check Greek citizens email, monitor our computers and access our online conversations.

TechCrunch

Or is it, put in plain terms, to make money?

Forbes

To put it in plainer words, I love Sherlock Holmes because he is an eternal nine year old, full of curiosity and wonder, looking for adventure and are frustrated people don't see all the fascinating things all around us.

Huffington Post

After a shocking cliffhanger at last week's rose ceremony, JoJo Fletcher opened last night's episode by sending finely chiseled cowboy Luke Pell home ― just a few minutes after he pulled her aside to finally put into plain words that he was in love with her. .

Huffington Post

At least nothing tells you in plain words.

The New York Times

"He speaks in plain words people can understand".

The New York Times

McCann captures Lily's clear, simple intelligence in plain words and direct storytelling.

The New York Times - Books

In plain words: forced overconsumption of cultural trash is what most westerners grew up in.

The Guardian - Books

Inge's characters suffer mightily, but in plain words and in homely ways.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "put in plain words" when you want to ensure your message is easily understood by a broad audience, avoiding jargon or complex language.

Common error

While effective, overusing "put in plain words" can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language with alternatives like "explain simply" or "clarify" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put in plain words" functions as a discourse marker, signaling an intention to simplify complex information. As noted by Ludwig, it aims to ensure clarity and easy comprehension. This makes information accessible to a broader audience.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "put in plain words" is a commonly used expression to indicate that someone is simplifying a complex topic for easier understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It's prevalent in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Wiki contexts, showcasing its broad applicability. When using this phrase, ensure your intention is to clarify and not to patronize. Consider alternatives like ""explain in layman's terms"" or "simplify the explanation" for variety. The goal is always to enhance clarity and comprehension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explain in layman's terms

Specifically targets an audience unfamiliar with technical jargon.

express in simple terms

Highlights the use of uncomplicated language.

clarify the meaning

Highlights the act of making the meaning easier to understand.

translate into simpler language

Implies converting complex language into an easier form.

simplify the explanation

Focuses on the action of making the explanation less complex.

make it understandable

Focuses on the outcome of being easily grasped.

rephrase for clarity

Focuses on rewording something to improve understanding.

break it down simply

Emphasizes a step-by-step approach to understanding.

spell it out

Suggests a detailed and unambiguous explanation.

elucidate the concept

Implies a more formal and thorough clarification.

FAQs

What does "put in plain words" mean?

The phrase "put in plain words" means to explain something in a clear and simple way, avoiding technical jargon or complex language so that it's easily understood.

How can I use "put in plain words" in a sentence?

You might say, "Can you "explain in layman's terms" what this contract means? Please, put it in plain words."

What can I say instead of "put in plain words"?

You can use alternatives like "simplify the explanation", "clarify the meaning", or "express in simple terms depending on the context.

Is it better to "put in plain words" or "explain in detail"?

It depends on your audience and purpose. "Put in plain words" is best for general understanding, while "explain in detail" is suitable when comprehensive information is needed.