Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
this term was
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "this term was" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific term or concept that has been previously mentioned or defined in a text. Example: "In the context of our discussion, this term was used to describe the process of adaptation in organisms."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
So I said, 'I'm a Texan!' " This term was his third.
News & Media
This term was coined in the late 1980s, during Japan's bubble economy.
News & Media
I was surprised to learn that this term was first coined more than 70 years ago.
News & Media
Indeed, the most remarkable thing about this term was that it was liberal justices who led the charge for business.
News & Media
The choice of this term was connected with the Aristotelian rejection of the infinite divisibility of matter.
Encyclopedias
Its about time this term was dropped from our language and certainly from your articles.Scott Williamson Aberdeen, Scotland .
News & Media
In the past this term was used to denote inter-dependence between different positions in the negotiations.
News & Media
This term was confined to arrangements in tall vases, and heika, vase flowers, is preferred to nageire by some schools.
Encyclopedias
This term was apparently applied by the Egyptians to other peoples or social groups who were of foreign origin.
Encyclopedias
It was the opening of the Oasis Academy Coulsdon near Croydon, which until this term was known as Coulsdon high school.
News & Media
Clarke was given only four months at the start of last season and, with identical results to those achieved by Irvine this term, was jettisoned at this stage.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When introducing a technical or uncommon term, clearly define it and provide context using the phrase "this term was" to ensure your audience understands its specific meaning within your writing.
Common error
Ensure that the noun you're referring to with "this" is immediately clear to your reader. If there's any chance of confusion, rephrase to explicitly state the term you are discussing.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "this term was" primarily functions as a declarative statement used to introduce, define, or explain a specific term within a given context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used and grammatically correct. Examples in the provided data showcase its usage across various disciplines.
Frequent in
Science
34%
News & Media
31%
Encyclopedias
8%
Less common in
Wiki
5%
Formal & Business
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "this term was" serves as a clear and direct way to introduce, define, or explain a specific term. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, notably in scientific, news, and encyclopedic sources. When using this phrase, ensure that the term being referenced is unambiguous to maintain clarity for your audience. Alternatives such as "the term referred to" and "the term was coined" provide stylistic variation while maintaining semantic similarity.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
this expression was
Replaces "term" with "expression", focusing on the wording rather than the concept.
this phrase was
Substitutes "term" with "phrase", similar to 'this expression was', but applicable to shorter word groups.
this terminology was
Emphasizes that a system of terms, rather than a single term, is being discussed.
this term referred to
Shifts the focus to the action of referring, indicating what the term pointed to or signified.
this term applied to
Highlights the application of the term, indicating the subject or context it was used for.
the term was coined
Focuses on the origin of the term, indicating when and by whom it was created.
the word was defined
Emphasizes the act of definition, clarifying the meaning of the word.
the concept was introduced
Shifts the focus to the broader idea or concept associated with the term.
initially, this term meant
Highlights the original significance of the term.
previously, this term signified
Similar to 'initially, this term meant', this alternative highlights the previous or historical implication of the term.
FAQs
How can I use "this term was" in a sentence?
Use "this term was" to introduce or clarify a specific concept or vocabulary in your writing. For example, "In this study, "cognitive dissonance" "this term was" used to describe the mental discomfort experienced when holding conflicting beliefs".
What phrases are similar to "this term was"?
Similar phrases include "this expression was", "this phrase was", "the term was coined", and "the word was defined", each offering a slightly different nuance depending on the context.
How do I ensure clarity when using "this term was"?
Ensure the term you're referring to is explicitly stated before using "this term was". Avoid ambiguity by placing the term immediately before the phrase for clear reference.
Is "this term was" formal enough for academic writing?
Yes, "this term was" is suitable for formal and academic writing as it provides a clear and direct way to introduce or define terms. Consider alternatives like "the term referred to" for stylistic variation.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested