Ever find yourself stuck trying to explain something more clearly and think, I need a better way to say this? That’s exactly where In Other Words comes in. It’s the phrase we reach for when our first explanation doesn’t land or when we need to break ideas down into simple, relatable language.
But just repeating yourself isn’t enough, you need clarity, flow, and the right paraphrasing tools to keep your message engaging.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to use In Other Words, plus helpful alternatives like to put it simply, that is to say, and put another way to make your writing more natural and effective. By the end, you’ll communicate with ease and explain anything with confidence.
Meaning Of Other Ways To Say “In Other Words”🔄
In Other Words is a widely used paraphrasing phrase that helps you restate an idea more clearly, simply, or directly. It signals that you’re about to explain something differently so the listener or reader can understand it better.
The phrase dates back to early modern English and became common in academic writing, legal texts, and everyday conversation as a way to offer clarification, simplification, or a more relatable explanation.
Over time, it evolved into a universal tool for rewording, similar to LSI terms like that is to say, to put it simply, put another way, and in simpler terms. Today, In Other Words is essential in communication, helping people refine meaning, avoid confusion, and make complex ideas easier to grasp.
Other Ways To Say “In Other Words”
- To put it simply
- Put differently
- In plain English
- In simpler terms
- In layman’s terms
- To phrase it another way
- That is to say
- To be specific
- To clarify
- Simply stated
- In short
- What this means is
- Better put
- In summary
- To rephrase
- More precisely
- Let’s say it this way
- In other words (yes, the original, still useful)
- To express it differently
- To restate
- In effect
- Essentially
- To spell it out
- To put it plainly
- What I’m trying to say is
1. To put it simply
Scenario: You are trying to explain a confusing rule to a coworker who needs a clearer version.
Explanation: To put it simply helps you rephrase complicated ideas in a clean, friendly way. It signals that a simpler version is coming using In Other Words and similar paraphrasing phrases.
Examples:
- The process is long. To put it simply, follow the checklist.
- The system is outdated. To put it simply, it needs an upgrade.
- The results were mixed. To put it simply, we must try again.
- The task is huge. To put it simply, start with step one.
- The idea is unclear. To put it simply, it means teamwork.
Why it Works: It prepares the reader for a simplified version, making complex ideas easier to understand.
2. Put differently
Scenario: You are giving feedback and want to reframe your message more softly.
Explanation: Put differently is a polite way to restate a point. It is direct yet friendly and works well with In Other Words when you want to shift tone without confusing the reader.
Examples:
- The deadline is strict. Put differently, submit early.
- Your idea is solid. Put differently, keep developing it.
- The plan is risky. Put differently, we need a backup.
- The meeting is important. Put differently, be on time.
- The rule applies to all. Put differently, no exceptions.
Why it Works: It offers a smoother, softer transition into rephrasing while keeping your meaning clear.
3. In plain English
Scenario: You are explaining a technical detail to someone without technical knowledge.
Explanation: In plain English signals that you are stripping away jargon and offering a clear, simple explanation using In Other Words and everyday language.
Examples:
- The software crashed. In plain English, it stopped working.
- The data is corrupt. In plain English, we lost the file.
- The plan failed. In plain English, it did not work.
- The system is overloaded. In plain English, it is too busy.
- The rule changed. In plain English, follow the new steps.
Why it Works: It instantly tells the reader that clarity and simplicity are the priority.
4. In simpler terms
Scenario: You are rewriting a confusing message for someone who needs a clearer breakdown.
Explanation: In simpler terms helps you restate ideas using easier language. It works perfectly alongside In Other Words, especially when translating complex thoughts into digestible explanations.
Examples:
- The deadline shifted. In simpler terms, it is earlier now.
- The data shows decline. In simpler terms, sales dropped.
- The rule changed. In simpler terms, follow the new policy.
- The plan is inefficient. In simpler terms, we must adjust.
- The team is behind schedule. In simpler terms, work faster.
Why it Works: It sets the expectation for clarity, making explanations more accessible.
5. In layman’s terms
Scenario: You are trying to explain a scientific concept to someone not familiar with the field.
Explanation: In layman’s terms simplifies an idea so anyone can understand. It pairs well with In Other Words, especially when translating expert-level details into everyday language.
Examples:
- Photosynthesis makes energy. In layman’s terms, plants eat sunlight.
- Encryption protects data. In layman’s terms, it locks information.
- The code failed. In layman’s terms, the system broke.
- The treatment works slowly. In layman’s terms, be patient.
- The budget is low. In layman’s terms, cut expenses.
Why it Works: It makes technical or specialized information accessible to everyone.
6. To phrase it another way
Scenario: You’re explaining a tricky concept in a team meeting and want to make it clearer.
Explanation: To phrase it another way allows you to restate your point differently while keeping the meaning intact. It works perfectly with In Other Words and related paraphrasing terms.
Examples:
- The system is inefficient. To phrase it another way, we need a new workflow.
- The plan is risky. To phrase it another way, we need a backup.
- The deadline is tight. To phrase it another way, start immediately.
- The instructions are confusing. To phrase it another way, simplify them.
- The budget is limited. To phrase it another way, spend wisely.
Why it Works: It signals a new approach to the same idea, keeping the listener engaged and understanding intact.
7. That is to say
Scenario: You’re clarifying a statement in a presentation or conversation.
Explanation: That is to say provides a precise clarification, making your point more formal yet conversational. It aligns naturally with In Other Words to ensure comprehension.
Examples:
- The project is delayed. That is to say, we need more time.
- The system is outdated. That is to say, it needs upgrading.
- The results were inconclusive. That is to say, more research is required.
- The offer is limited. That is to say, act fast.
- The team is small. That is to say, everyone must contribute.
Why it Works: It gives a clear explanation and adds authority, keeping your message precise and professional.
8. To be specific
Scenario: You’re providing additional details after a general statement.
Explanation: To be specific emphasizes details or clarifies the exact meaning. It is useful in writing or speech when paired with In Other Words for precision.
Examples:
- The plan is costly. To be specific, it requires $10,000.
- The task is urgent. To be specific, it is due tomorrow.
- The issue is technical. To be specific, it involves the server.
- The process is complex. To be specific, it has seven steps.
- The event is mandatory. To be specific, attendance is required.
Why it Works: It highlights precision, helping the reader or listener fully grasp the point.
9. To clarify
Scenario: You notice confusion after making a statement in a meeting or chat.
Explanation: To clarify signals that you are about to make your statement easier to understand. It complements In Other Words by providing clarity and smoothing misunderstandings.
Examples:
- The deadline is approaching. To clarify, submit by Friday.
- The rules are strict. To clarify, no exceptions are allowed.
- The data is preliminary. To clarify, it is subject to change.
- The meeting is online. To clarify, use the provided link.
- The instructions are confusing. To clarify, follow these steps.
Why it Works: It reassures the audience that understanding is your priority and prevents miscommunication.
10. Simply stated
Scenario: You want to sum up a long explanation into a digestible statement.
Explanation: Simply stated condenses complex ideas into an easy-to-digest version. It pairs perfectly with In Other Words and similar simplifying phrases.
Examples:
- The project is failing. Simply stated, we need a new strategy.
- The app is slow. Simply stated, it requires optimization.
- The plan is risky. Simply stated, proceed cautiously.
- The process is complicated. Simply stated, follow the steps.
- The team is understaffed. Simply stated, everyone must help.
Why it Works: It quickly communicates the essence of a message, making it easy for anyone to understand.
11. In short
Scenario: You’re wrapping up a discussion or summarizing points.
Explanation: In short, it is perfect for summarizing, giving a concise version of your statement. Using it with In Other Words ensures clarity and emphasis.
Examples:
- The project is behind schedule. In short, we need more resources.
- The task is urgent. In short, act immediately.
- The instructions are confusing. In short, simplify them.
- The system is outdated. In short, upgrade it soon.
- The event is mandatory. In short, attend it.
Why it Works: It signals a concise summary, allowing readers or listeners to grasp the main point effortlessly.
12. What this means is
Scenario: Explaining implications after delivering complex information.
Explanation: What this means is introduces the practical or logical consequence of a statement. It works seamlessly with In Other Words to make ideas actionable.
Examples:
- The deadline is tight. What this means is, we must start now.
- The budget is limited. What this means is, spend wisely.
- The software crashed. What this means is, fix the issue quickly.
- The policy changed. What this means is, follow the new rules.
- The team is small. What this means is, everyone must pitch in.
Why it Works: It makes abstract or complex information practical and easy to understand.
13. Better put
Scenario: You want to rephrase your previous statement for clarity or impact.
Explanation: Better put signals that a clearer or more accurate version of your statement is coming. It pairs naturally with In Other Words and other paraphrasing phrases.
Examples:
- The plan is ambitious. Better put, it requires full commitment.
- The instructions are vague. Better put, follow step by step.
- The project is delayed. Better put, we need more time.
- The system is outdated. Better put, upgrading is urgent.
- The task is complex. Better put, break it into smaller steps.
Why it Works: It signals a refinement of your thought, making your explanation clearer and more precise.
14. In summary
Scenario: Wrapping up a discussion, presentation, or article.
Explanation: In summary provides a concise recap of key points. Using it with In Other Words ensures your message is easily understood.
Examples:
- The project has challenges. In summary, careful planning is needed.
- The results are promising. In summary, continue the current strategy.
- The instructions are confusing. In summary, simplify them.
- The team is small. In summary, everyone must contribute.
- The policy changed. In summary, follow the new rules.
Why it Works: It highlights the main points in a neat, digestible way, ensuring clarity and retention.
15. To rephrase
Scenario: You need to restate a point during a conversation or email.
Explanation: To rephrase signals you are expressing the same idea in a clearer or different way. It naturally complements In Other Words and paraphrasing expressions.
Examples:
- The task is complex. To rephrase, take it step by step.
- The plan is risky. To rephrase, we need a backup.
- The system failed. To rephrase, troubleshoot immediately.
- The instructions are unclear. To rephrase, follow this guide.
- The deadline is tight. To rephrase, act now.
Why it Works: It clearly indicates the message is being restated for better understanding.
16. More precisely
Scenario: You want to refine your explanation and provide accuracy.
Explanation: More precisely highlights a detailed or exact version of your previous statement. It works well with In Other Words for precise communication.
Examples:
- The results were good. More precisely, 85% of tasks succeeded.
- The plan is effective. More precisely, it saves two hours daily.
- The error is minor. More precisely, it affects only one module.
- The system is slow. More precisely, it lags during peak hours.
- The meeting is important. More precisely, it covers all updates.
Why it Works: It adds precision, helping the reader understand exact details without ambiguity.
17. Let’s say it this way
Scenario: Explaining something with an easy-to-understand analogy or example.
Explanation: Let’s say it this way makes your statement relatable and conversational. It pairs naturally with In Other Words for clarity.
Examples:
- The process is complicated. Let’s say it this way, follow step by step.
- The project is risky. Let’s say it this way, prepare a backup.
- The system is outdated. Let’s say it this way, it needs an upgrade.
- The task is urgent. Let’s say it this way, finish it today.
- The budget is low. Let’s say it this way, spend cautiously.
Why it Works: It creates a friendly, approachable tone while clarifying meaning.
18. In other words
Scenario: Rewriting a statement for clarity or emphasis.
Explanation: In other words is the classic go-to phrase for paraphrasing, simplifying, or clarifying a statement. It signals you are about to restate something more clearly.
Examples:
- The plan is ambitious. In other words, it needs everyone’s effort.
- The instructions are unclear. In other words, follow the guide carefully.
- The system is outdated. In other words, upgrade is necessary.
- The deadline is tight. In other words, act fast.
- The task is complex. In other words, break it into steps.
Why it Works: It is universally recognized and instantly signals clarification, making your writing or speech more effective.
19. To express it differently
Scenario: You want to restate an idea using new wording or style.
Explanation: To express it differently is a professional and conversational way to paraphrase. It works seamlessly with In Other Words for clarity.
Examples:
- The process is long. To express it differently, take one step at a time.
- The plan is risky. To express it differently, prepare for setbacks.
- The deadline is near. To express it differently, act immediately.
- The rules are strict. To express it differently, follow them exactly.
- The task is challenging. To express it differently, break it down.
Why it Works: It signals rewording clearly, ensuring comprehension without repetition fatigue.
20. To restate
Scenario: Repeating a statement for emphasis or clarity.
Explanation: To restate is formal yet conversational, letting the audience know you are repeating an idea differently for understanding.
Examples:
- The project is delayed. To restate, we need more time.
- The budget is tight. To restate, spend carefully.
- The instructions are confusing. To restate, follow the steps.
- The system is outdated. To restore, an upgrade is required.
- The task is urgent. To restate, finish it today.
Why it Works: It emphasizes clarity and reinforces important points effectively.
21. In effect
Scenario: Summarizing implications or outcomes of a situation.
Explanation: In effect explains the practical result of a statement. It pairs naturally with In Other Words to highlight consequences.
Examples:
- The deadline was extended. In effect, we have more time.
- The software update failed. In effect, the system is down.
- The rules were relaxed. In effect, fewer restrictions apply.
- The team collaborated. In effect, the project succeeded.
- The resources are limited. In effect, prioritize tasks.
Why it Works: It conveys real-world implications clearly, making your point actionable.
22. Essentially
Scenario: Boiling down a complex topic to its core meaning.
Explanation: Essentially distills the main idea and clarifies it, complementing In Other Words for simplicity and focus.
Examples:
- The process is long. Essentially, follow each step carefully.
- The problem is simple. Essentially, communicate better.
- The task is difficult. Essentially, break it down.
- The team is small. Essentially, everyone helps.
- The rules are strict. Essentially, follow them.
Why it Works: It highlights the essence of a statement, making complex ideas digestible.
23. To spell it out
Scenario: Making an instruction or idea completely clear.
Explanation: To spell it out emphasizes clarity, leaving no room for confusion. It works naturally with In Other Words.
Examples:
- Submit the report today. To spell it out, do not delay.
- The rules apply to all. To spell it out, no exceptions.
- The task is urgent. To spell it out, finish it immediately.
- The budget is fixed. To spell it out, spend within limits.
- Follow the steps. To spell it out, do each in order.
Why it Works: It ensures absolute clarity, removing ambiguity from instructions or statements.
24. To put it plainly
Scenario: Simplifying a statement for maximum understanding.
Explanation: To put it plainly signals a straightforward, easy-to-understand version of your idea. It complements In Other Words perfectly.
Examples:
- The system is outdated. To put it plainly, it needs an upgrade.
- The process is slow. To put it plainly, improve efficiency.
- The task is hard. To put it plainly, take it step by step.
- The results are mixed. To put it plainly, review carefully.
- The deadline is tight. To put it plainly, act now.
Why it Works: It creates a direct, friendly tone that ensures everyone understands.
25. What I’m trying to say is
Scenario: Clarifying your point during conversation or writing.
Explanation: What I’m trying to say is casual and personal, showing you are about to restate or explain an idea clearly. It works well with In Other Words for everyday clarity.
Examples:
- The deadline is close. What I’m trying to say is, start immediately.
- The plan is risky. What I’m trying to say is, prepare a backup.
- The instructions are unclear. What I’m trying to say is, follow the guide.
- The system is outdated. What I’m trying to say is, upgrade is needed.
- The project is complex. What I’m trying to say is, break it into steps.
Why it Works: It adds a human, conversational touch while clearly restating your point.
Conclusion
By now, you’ve discovered how In Other Words and related phrases like to put it simply, that is to say, and in simpler terms can make your communication clearer, smoother, and more relatable.
When you’re writing emails, explaining ideas, or simplifying complex concepts, knowing how to rephrase effectively gives you confidence and makes your message more impactful.
Remember, it’s not just about swapping words, it’s about helping others truly understand what you mean. Keep this guide handy, try out these examples in your writing or conversations, and watch how clarity transforms your communication.
Share it, bookmark it, or revisit it whenever you need a quick clarity boost with In Other Words.
FAQS ABOUT “In Other Words”
1. What to use instead of In Other Words?
Use alternatives like to put it simply, that is to say, in simpler terms, to phrase it differently, or put differently to restate ideas clearly and effectively.
2. How do you politely say In Other Words?
You can politely use to clarify, to express it differently, or to be specific to rephrase without sounding abrupt or repetitive.
3. What is a fancy way of saying In Other Words?
Try sophisticated alternatives like that is to say, ergo, thus, in effect, or more precisely to elevate your writing style.
4. How do you say In Other Words in a formal way?
Use professional phrasing like to rephrase, to spell it out, in short, or essentially to maintain clarity in formal writing.
5. What are the best synonyms of In Other Words for academic writing?
Top academic alternatives include that is to say, to put it simply, in effect, put differently, and to restate, which enhances clarity, flow, and reader comprehension.
