words to that effect

USAGE SUMMARY

'words to that effect' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you wish to express a general meaning or idea without going into too much detail. For example: "He said that he would never forgive her, or words to that effect".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Words to that effect.

Independent

Or words to that effect.

The New York Times

Or more words to that effect.

The New York Times

You're nuts!" Words to that effect.

The New York Times - Travel

"Equally strong words to that effect," I say.

The New York Times

"All right mate?" he said, or words to that effect.

The Guardian - Sport

Sure, she said (or words to that effect).

The Washington Post

No dice, he said, or words to that effect.

The New York Times

You stink, he told him, or words to that effect.

The New York Times - Magazine

O.K., shoot, Gretzky said, or words to that effect.

The New York Times - Sports

What happens in the dressing room stays in the dressing room, or words to that effect.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "words to that effect" when you want to convey the general idea of a statement without quoting it exactly, especially when the precise wording is uncertain or unimportant. This shows you're capturing the essence without claiming verbatim accuracy.

Common error

While acceptable in many contexts, avoid excessive use of "words to that effect" in formal or academic writing. Instead, strive for more precise paraphrasing or direct quotations when possible to enhance credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "words to that effect" functions as a discourse marker, indicating that the speaker is providing an inexact quotation or paraphrasing a previous statement. It acknowledges that the precise wording might not be remembered or isn't crucial to the overall message. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "words to that effect" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that you are paraphrasing a statement and cannot recall or do not wish to provide the exact wording. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and very commonly used, particularly in News & Media. While appropriate in many contexts, it should be used sparingly in highly formal or academic writing where precise quotations are preferred. When choosing between "words to that effect" and similar phrases, consider the level of formality and the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

or something along those lines

This phrase suggests a similar but not exact recollection of what was said.

or similar wording

This indicates the use of comparable language to express the same idea.

or roughly those words

Implies an inexact but close rendering of the original statement.

or something to that nature

Suggests a comparable essence or quality in what was conveyed.

in that vein

Indicates a comparable tone, style, or approach in communication.

to that general idea

Highlights the overall concept being similar, rather than exact wording.

or similar sentiments

Focuses on the expression of comparable feelings or attitudes.

or so he/she claimed

Adds an element of reported speech, indicating the speaker's version.

or in a similar fashion

Emphasizes a comparable method or way of expressing the idea.

or phrases of that kind

Indicates a collection of similar expressions used to convey a point.

FAQs

How can I use "words to that effect" in a sentence?

Use "words to that effect" to indicate that you're paraphrasing and can't recall the exact wording. For example, "He said he was too busy to help, or "words to that effect"."

What is a more formal alternative to "words to that effect"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "or "something along those lines"", "or "similar wording"", or "or "to that general idea"" for a slightly more polished tone.

Is it appropriate to use "words to that effect" in academic writing?

While not strictly incorrect, "words to that effect" is generally too informal for academic writing. Aim for precise quotations or detailed paraphrases instead. Reserve the phrase for less formal contexts.

What's the difference between "words to that effect" and a direct quote?

"Words to that effect" indicates you're providing a summary or paraphrase, whereas a direct quote presents the exact words spoken or written. Use quotes when precision is crucial; use "words to that effect" when conveying the gist is sufficient.