speak in terms of

USAGE SUMMARY

"speak in terms of" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to express oneself or communicate using specific words or concepts. Example: In order to better understand the impact of our project, we should speak in terms of cost efficiency and environmental sustainability.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Sarewitz doesn't speak in terms of open science.

The Guardian

Republicans speak in terms of principle, not programs.

The New York Times

They don't speak in terms of causality or linear time.

The New Yorker

They do not speak in terms of cooing wonder.

The Guardian - Film

Ethnic nationalists, he continued, "can only speak in terms of survival.

The New Yorker

Many medical investigators now speak in terms of the probability that a tumor is deadly.

The New York Times - Health

The union's response was shockingly silent, so to speak, in terms of reaction.

The New York Times

Now they speak in terms of the percentage of gross domestic product.

The Guardian

American critics of open borders speak in terms of national sovereignty and cultural cohesion.

The New York Times

Chancellor Angela Merkel has been careful to speak in terms of "loan guarantees".

The New York Times

Pro-immigration activists, for their part, speak in terms of globalization and justice.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "speak in terms of" when you want to emphasize the perspective or the specific vocabulary being used to discuss a topic.

Common error

Avoid using overly abstract or jargon-heavy terms when you "speak in terms of" a particular concept. Clarity is key; simplify complex ideas for broader understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "speak in terms of" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces the framework, perspective, or specific language being used in a discussion. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and widely used in the English language.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "speak in terms of" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to frame discussions within a specific context, perspective, or vocabulary. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used, carrying a neutral tone suitable for various registers. Its usage is most prevalent in news media, scientific discourse, and formal business communication. While valuable for providing clarity, it’s important to use accessible language to avoid alienating audiences. Related phrases like "express oneself using" or "frame the discussion as" offer alternatives for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

phrase it in terms of

Focuses on the specific wording used to convey an idea.

express oneself using

Focuses on the act of self-expression through specific means.

frame the discussion as

Emphasizes the framing of a conversation or topic.

articulate using the language of

Highlights the use of a specific language or terminology.

couch in the language of

Implies presenting something in a particular style or vocabulary.

convey in the context of

Highlights the surrounding circumstances and background.

present from the standpoint of

Focuses on the perspective or viewpoint being adopted.

discuss using the framework of

Emphasizes the conceptual structure used for analysis.

address within the confines of

Indicates addressing a topic within certain limitations or boundaries.

interpret through the lens of

Highlights the filter or perspective used to understand something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "speak in terms of" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, you could use alternatives such as "articulate using", "present from the standpoint of", or "couch in the language of" to convey a similar meaning with a more sophisticated tone.

Is it ever incorrect to use "speak in terms of"?

While grammatically correct, using "speak in terms of" may not be appropriate if the context requires a more direct or simpler expression. Consider your audience and the level of formality required.

What is the difference between "speak about" and "speak in terms of"?

"Speak about" is a more general phrase, simply referring to discussing a topic. "Speak in terms of" implies using a specific framework, vocabulary, or perspective while discussing something.

How does the meaning of "speak in terms of" change based on the context?

The meaning is relatively consistent; however, the specific framework or concepts referenced after "speak in terms of" will drastically alter the overall message. Ensure these terms are well-defined for your audience.