18 Other Ways to Say “In Other Words”

“In other words” is a commonly used phrase that signals rephrasing, clarifying, or simplifying a previous statement. When someone says, “In other words, it means…,” they’re introducing a clearer or more relatable version of what was just said, especially when the original explanation was too complex, technical, or abstract.

However, this phrase can become repetitive if used too frequently, especially in writing or public speaking. Thankfully, there are a variety of alternatives that offer subtle nuances and allow you to express the same intention—rewording something for clarity—without sounding monotonous. In this article, we’ll explore 18 effective alternatives to “in other words,” their meanings, examples, and the contexts where they fit best.

Other Ways to Say “In Other Words”

1. To Put It Differently

Example: The project didn’t meet its deadline. To put it differently, we failed to deliver on time.

Meaning: A direct rephrasing of a previous point with different words for clearer understanding.

Usage: This is a versatile phrase that fits both casual and formal settings where clarification is needed without losing the original meaning.

2. That Is to Say

Example: He’s a polyglot, that is to say, he speaks more than five languages fluently.

Meaning: Used to explain or elaborate on something just mentioned, often to make it more specific or digestible.

Usage: Often found in academic, technical, or formal writing, especially when introducing a more refined definition or explanation.

3. Put Another Way

Example: The company is downsizing. Put another way, many employees will be laid off soon.

Meaning: Offers a different verbal approach to express the same idea in a potentially more relatable or gentle way.

Usage: Suitable in professional or sensitive communications where clarity and tact are equally important.

4. To Rephrase It

Example: The regulation is not clearly defined. To rephrase it, the rules are confusing and open to interpretation.

Meaning: Indicates a direct paraphrasing of a prior statement, often to simplify or clarify dense information.

Usage: Most appropriate in presentations, speeches, or classroom settings where listener comprehension is critical.

5. In Simpler Terms

Example: Inflation has risen by 5% over the last quarter. In simpler terms, prices for goods and services are going up.

Meaning: A more accessible explanation intended for audiences who may not grasp technical or complex language.

Usage: Common in education, journalism, or content aimed at broad audiences with varying degrees of subject knowledge.

6. Simply Put

Example: Our marketing approach is inconsistent. Simply put, we need a better strategy.

Meaning: A concise and clear explanation, usually eliminating jargon or unnecessary complexity.

Usage: Frequently used in business or persuasive writing to drive home a key point in plain language.

7. Let Me Put It This Way

Example: We’re not meeting expectations. Let me put it this way: our results are disappointing.

Meaning: Prepares the listener for a reworded or more direct version of what was just said, often signaling a shift in tone.

Usage: Effective in conversations or speeches when trying to get someone’s attention or stress a particular idea.

8. In Plain English

Example: The technical specifications indicate a voltage anomaly. In plain English, the machine is overheating.

Meaning: Used to translate technical or academic language into something that anyone can understand easily.

Usage: Great for writers or speakers aiming to bridge the gap between expert terminology and general audience understanding.

9. What This Means Is

Example: The interest rate will increase by 1%. What this means is loans will become more expensive.

Meaning: A phrase used to draw a conclusion or interpret a statement in a more digestible way.

Usage: Frequently used in analysis, commentary, or customer service when breaking down facts or implications.

10. To Clarify

Example: Our return policy includes some exceptions. To clarify, items on clearance cannot be returned.

Meaning: Used to provide more specific or detailed information about a potentially ambiguous statement.

Usage: Ideal for writing emails, explaining instructions, or elaborating on policies or rules.

11. Namely

Example: He loves Italian food—namely, pasta and pizza.

Meaning: Used to give exact information or a more specific detail of a general idea mentioned before.

Usage: Works well in formal writing or structured explanations where specification enhances clarity.

12. That Means

Example: The warranty expired last month. That means we’ll have to pay for repairs ourselves.

Meaning: Provides a natural bridge from one statement to its immediate implication or consequence.

Usage: Common in spoken English, casual writing, or educational content when summarizing outcomes or explaining significance.

13. Or Rather

Example: I thought the solution was perfect—or rather, I believed it would work in theory.

Meaning: Used to slightly correct or refine what was just said, typically to introduce a more accurate phrasing or nuance.

Usage: Useful in both writing and speech when adjusting tone or modifying an earlier point for clarity.

14. To Be More Specific

Example: Many animals are endangered. To be more specific, over 16,000 species are currently at risk.

Meaning: Introduces more precise or detailed information following a general statement.

Usage: Ideal in analytical or informative writing when facts and details are necessary to support a claim.

15. As In

Example: He’s acting irrationally—as in yelling at people over minor issues.

Meaning: Gives a practical or visual example of an abstract idea or general statement.

Usage: Common in conversational English to explain vague or emotional concepts with specific instances.

16. More Precisely

Example: The universe is expanding—more precisely, space itself is stretching in all directions.

Meaning: Used to refine an earlier statement by offering a more technically accurate or sharply defined explanation.

Usage: Works well in scientific, academic, or logical contexts where clarity is crucial.

17. Or Put Differently

Example: He is struggling to keep up with expenses—or put differently, he’s living beyond his means.

Meaning: A variation of “put another way,” offering an alternate phrasing or more relatable version of the idea.

Usage: Appropriate in essays, blogs, or spoken discourse when trying to connect with the audience through varied expressions.

18. Another Way to Say It

Example: She’s feeling overwhelmed. Another way to say it—she’s burned out.

Meaning: A casual phrase that signals a shift to a simpler or more emotionally resonant version of what was previously said.

Usage: Works well in informal or relatable communication, including social media or coaching-style writing.

When to Use Different Alternatives

In Professional Settings

When communicating in a business, legal, or formal workplace environment, choosing precise alternatives like “to clarify,” “to be more specific,” or “namely” can maintain professionalism while improving clarity. These options also reflect well-organized thought processes and show attention to detail in your communication.

In Everyday Conversations

For casual dialogue or everyday speaking, phrases like “simply put,” “let me put it this way,” or “that means” sound more natural and relatable. These expressions help keep conversations flowing and make your message feel accessible and friendly, even when explaining something complex.

In Academic or Educational Writing

When you’re writing essays, giving presentations, or teaching, using phrases like “to rephrase it,” “more precisely,” or “in simpler terms” shows your commitment to making ideas easier to understand. These expressions help your audience digest information without feeling lost or overwhelmed by jargon or dense explanations.

Conclusion

The phrase “in other words” is extremely helpful when we want to explain, simplify, or restate something—but relying on it too often can make writing or speech feel repetitive. That’s why expanding your vocabulary with varied alternatives can add richness and clarity to your communication style.

Whether you’re breaking down a technical concept, rewriting a sentence for clarity, or simplifying an abstract idea for a general audience, the 18 expressions shared in this article can help you express yourself more effectively and connect with your readers or listeners in a more engaging way.

For more alternatives and in-depth synonym guides, you might want to explore resources like Thesaurus.com or writing handbooks focused on style and usage.

FAQs

What does “in other words” mean?

It’s a phrase used when you want to explain something differently or more clearly by restating it using simpler or more direct language.

Is “in other words” formal or informal?

It’s neutral and works in both formal and informal situations, but depending on the setting, alternatives like “to rephrase it” (formal) or “let me put it this way” (informal) might fit better.

Can “in other words” be overused?

Yes, repeating it frequently can make your writing sound redundant. Using a range of alternatives keeps your tone fresh and your message easier to follow.

Which alternative is best in academic writing?

Phrases like “to clarify,” “more precisely,” and “that is to say” are often preferred in academic or technical writing for their clarity and precision.