the terms are

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the terms are" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when introducing or defining specific conditions, agreements, or stipulations in a discussion or document. Example: "Before we proceed, let me clarify that the terms are non-negotiable and must be accepted as stated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The terms are harsh.

The Economist

Again, the terms are puzzling.

Independent

The terms are almost always secret.

The Economist

MR. CHANY: Sometimes the terms are confusing.

The New York Times

The terms are vague, but why not?

The New York Times

The terms are a little imprecise.

The New York Times

The terms are subject to change.

The New York Times

"The terms are tight," he said.

The New Yorker

But in Egypt the terms are different.

The New Yorker

But the terms are fluid.

The Guardian - Film

For Morgan Stanley, the terms are severe.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the terms are", ensure that you clearly define what the terms refer to within the immediate context. This prevents ambiguity and ensures clarity for the reader or listener.

Common error

Avoid using "the terms are" without specifying whose terms you are referring to. Always provide context to clarify the source or origin of the terms to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the terms are" functions as a declarative statement introducing or elaborating on specific conditions, agreements, or stipulations. As evidenced by examples in Ludwig, the phrase commonly precedes descriptions of contract details, settlement agreements, or offered deals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the terms are" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce or elaborate on specific conditions, agreements, or stipulations. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is versatile, appearing in news, scientific documents, and business contexts with a neutral register. It's crucial to provide clear context when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity. By avoiding generalities and clearly defining what "the terms" refer to, writers can ensure that their message is effectively conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the conditions are

Changes the noun from 'terms' to 'conditions', emphasizing the requirements or stipulations.

the stipulations are

Replaces 'terms' with 'stipulations', which highlights specific demands or requirements.

the provisions are

Substitutes 'terms' with 'provisions', referring to specific clauses or arrangements within an agreement.

the details are

Replaces 'terms' with 'details', focusing on specific pieces of information regarding an agreement or arrangement.

the specifics are

Emphasizes the particular and precise aspects of an agreement, using 'specifics' instead of 'terms'.

the requirements are

Focuses on what is needed or demanded, replacing 'terms' with 'requirements'.

the regulations are

Highlights the rules or directives in place, using 'regulations' instead of 'terms'.

the ground rules are

Substitutes 'terms' with 'ground rules', emphasizing the fundamental rules or principles.

the fine print is

This alternative specifically relates to those details easily overlooked, replacing 'terms' with 'fine print'.

the particulars are

Uses 'particulars' to emphasize the individual or specific elements being discussed instead of the general 'terms'.

FAQs

How can I use "the terms are" in a sentence?

You can use "the terms are" to introduce or explain specific conditions, agreements, or stipulations. For example, "The terms are non-negotiable", or "The terms are outlined in the contract".

What phrases are similar to "the terms are"?

Similar phrases include "the conditions are", "the stipulations are", or "the provisions are". These alternatives can be used to emphasize different aspects of an agreement or requirement.

Is it correct to say "the terms is" instead of "the terms are"?

No, "the terms" is plural, so it requires the plural verb "are". The correct phrasing is always "the terms are".

When should I use "the terms are" versus "the terms were"?

"The terms are" should be used when referring to current or ongoing terms. "The terms were" should be used when referring to terms that existed in the past. For example, "The terms are subject to change" (current), versus "The terms were different last year" (past).