in other words

Meaning

This phrase is used to introduce a simplified or clearer explanation of something that has just been said. It helps the writer or speaker rephrase a complex point to ensure the audience understands it. It is highly versatile, fitting both casual discussions and formal academic papers.

Examples

• The company's revenue declined by fifty percent; in other words, they lost half their income.

  The company's revenue declined by fifty percent; in other words, they lost half their income.

• She said she needed some space; in other words, she wants to break up.

  She said she needed some space; in other words, she wants to break up.

• The experiment yielded no significant changes; in other words, the hypothesis was incorrect.

  The experiment yielded no significant changes; in other words, the hypothesis was incorrect.

• He is extremely risk-averse; in other words, he hates taking chances with his money.

  He is extremely risk-averse; in other words, he hates taking chances with his money.

• The software is no longer supported; in other words, you need to upgrade to the new version.

  The software is no longer supported; in other words, you need to upgrade to the new version.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ In other word, we need to restart the project.

  ✓ In other words, we need to restart the project.

  The noun 'words' must always be plural in this fixed idiomatic expression.

• ✗ He was late, with other words, he missed the train.

  ✓ He was late; in other words, he missed the train.

  The correct preposition is 'in', not 'with' or 'by'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The test results were negative; ___, you are completely healthy.

  💡 Use the phrase that means 'to put it simply'.

  Show answer

  in other words

• The flight has been canceled; ___, we are stuck here tonight.

  💡 Rephrase the situation.

  Show answer

  in other words