put it this way

USAGE SUMMARY

"put it this way" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a new way of expressing something or to explain something in a simpler way. For example: Understanding the law can be confusing, so put it this way: if an action is illegal, don't do it.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mandelstam put it this way.

The New Yorker

"Let's just put it this way.

The New York Times - Sports

So let me put it this way.

The New Yorker

"Put it this way," Jones said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Put it this way, for luck".

The New Yorker

"Put it this way," Dr. Milrod said.

The New York Times

"Put it this way," he added.

The New York Times - Arts

Clegg put it this way.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then, "Put it this way.

The Guardian - Film

So we might put it this way.

Yale University

— you might put it this way.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "put it this way" to bridge complex ideas with simpler explanations for better understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "put it this way" excessively in highly formal or academic writing; opt for more sophisticated transitional phrases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put it this way" functions as a discourse marker, signaling that the speaker or writer is about to offer a rephrasing, simplification, or alternative explanation of something previously stated or implied. Ludwig confirms this usage with numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Academia

16%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

18%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "put it this way" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a simpler or alternative explanation of a concept. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and very common, particularly in News & Media and Academia. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to consider the context and choose more formal alternatives like "in other words" or "to clarify" for highly formal settings. Remember to use "put it this way" to bridge complex ideas with accessible explanations, enhancing overall understanding. Steer clear of overuse, as constant rephrasing may dilute the message. Overall, Ludwig's examples confirm its solid place in contemporary English communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in other words

Emphasizes clarification and simplification of the previous statement.

simply put

Highlights the intent to make the explanation as straightforward as possible.

let me rephrase

Indicates an immediate correction or adjustment of what was said.

to put it differently

Changes the focus to a slightly more formal and direct rephrasing.

in simpler terms

Focuses on avoiding jargon and using more accessible language.

another way to say it is

Suggests an alternative formulation of the same idea.

if I can reword that

Indicates the intention to refine the previous statement.

to explain it another way

Highlights that different perspective is being offered to aid comprehension.

to rephrase that

Offers a more concise way to indicate a restatement.

to clarify

Focuses on making something clearer or easier to understand.

FAQs

How can I use "put it this way" in a sentence?

Use "put it this way" to introduce a simpler explanation or rephrasing of a concept. For example, "The economic situation is complex, so "put it this way": spending is down and unemployment is up".

What are some alternatives to "put it this way"?

Alternatives include "in other words", "to rephrase that", or "simply put", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "put it this way"?

It's appropriate to use "put it this way" when you want to clarify a statement or explain something in a more understandable manner, particularly after presenting a complex idea.

Is "put it this way" considered formal or informal?

"Put it this way" leans towards the informal side. For more formal contexts, consider using "to put it differently" or "to clarify".