Finding the right words can make all the difference when trying to express yourself clearly and thoughtfully. Sometimes, we need to rephrase a thought or clarify an idea — not because others don’t understand, but because we want to make sure our message feels warm, accessible, and human. Saying “In other words” is one of the most common ways to reframe something, but using fresh, meaningful alternatives can make your communication sound more natural, personal, and engaging.
Below, you’ll find 30 thoughtful alternatives to “In other words,” each explained with meaning, tone, and examples to help you use them with confidence and care.
What Does “In Other Words” Mean?
The phrase “In other words” means to rephrase something more clearly or simply. It’s often used when explaining, summarizing, or softening a message. For example:
“She’s a minimalist — in other words, she prefers fewer, more meaningful things.”
It helps clarify your point and ensures your listener fully understands what you mean.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “In Other Words”?
Yes — “In other words” is both professional and polite. It’s widely accepted in emails, meetings, and conversations. However, overusing it can sound repetitive or overly formal. Using alternatives can make your tone warmer, more relatable, and tailored to different contexts (like writing, teaching, or casual chat).
Advantages or Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Helps clarify complex ideas
- Makes explanations smoother and easier to follow
- Sounds polite and educational
Disadvantages:
- Can seem repetitive in longer writing
- May sound overly formal in casual speech
- Sometimes interrupts conversational flow
In Other Words Synonyms
- To put it simply
- Simply put
- That is to say
- In simpler terms
- To clarify
- What I mean is
- Put another way
- To rephrase
- To put it another way
- To put it differently
- Basically
- In essence
- To sum up
- That means
- In short
- Simply stated
- Let me rephrase that
- Or rather
- That’s to say
- To explain
- Essentially
- To put things in perspective
- Meaning
- To put it another way around
- To put it bluntly
- The point is
- To restate
- To put it lightly
- In plain English
- To put it clearly
1. To Put It Simply
Meaning: To express something in a simpler or clearer way.
Explanation: This phrase works when you want to break down a complex idea into plain language.
Example: “The system is outdated — to put it simply, it’s no longer efficient.”
Best Use: Great for teaching, explaining, or breaking down concepts.
Tone: Friendly and clear.
2. Simply Put
Meaning: A concise way to summarize or clarify an idea.
Explanation: It gives a feeling of confidence and clarity while keeping the tone conversational.
Example: “She’s overworked — simply put, she needs a break.”
Best Use: Ideal for summarizing or concluding a statement.
Tone: Calm, straightforward, and warm.
3. That Is to Say
Meaning: Used to clarify or specify something you’ve just mentioned.
Explanation: Common in writing or formal speech when you want to rephrase thoughtfully.
Example: “He’s an introvert — that is to say, he enjoys solitude.”
Best Use: Professional writing or polite explanations.
Tone: Formal but kind.
4. In Simpler Terms
Meaning: Rewording something for easier understanding.
Explanation: Perfect when explaining to someone unfamiliar with a topic.
Example: “The economy’s slowing — in simpler terms, things are getting more expensive.”
Best Use: Teaching, mentoring, or friendly explanations.
Tone: Helpful and approachable.
5. To Clarify
Meaning: To explain something more precisely.
Explanation: Great for making sure your message isn’t misunderstood.
Example: “To clarify, I didn’t mean to sound critical.”
Best Use: Professional emails, discussions, or feedback.
Tone: Respectful and precise.
6. What I Mean Is
Meaning: To restate your point in a clearer or gentler way.
Explanation: Adds a personal, conversational touch.
Example: “I’m not angry — what I mean is, I just need space.”
Best Use: Emotional or relational communication.
Tone: Empathetic and sincere.
7. Put Another Way
Meaning: Another expression of the same idea.
Explanation: Offers a smooth transition for rephrasing.
Example: “She’s not lazy — put another way, she works best under pressure.”
Best Use: Polite correction or reframing.
Tone: Neutral and clear.
8. To Rephrase
Meaning: To say something differently for clarity or tone.
Explanation: Especially useful in writing or discussions.
Example: “To rephrase, we need to prioritize customer experience.”
Best Use: Professional and academic settings.
Tone: Formal yet understanding.
9. To Put It Another Way
Meaning: Another method of expressing your idea.
Explanation: Similar to “put another way,” but sounds a bit more natural in conversation.
Example: “We’re behind schedule — to put it another way, we need to speed up.”
Best Use: Presentations, meetings, or discussions.
Tone: Polished and clear.
10. To Put It Differently
Meaning: To describe something from a new perspective.
Explanation: A polite, thoughtful transition when reframing ideas.
Example: “He’s focused — to put it differently, he’s driven by goals.”
Best Use: Writing or speaking with nuance.
Tone: Professional and thoughtful.
11. Basically
Meaning: Used to simplify a concept to its core meaning.
Explanation: Makes things sound easy to grasp, often used casually.
Example: “Basically, we need better communication.”
Best Use: Informal chats, teaching, or mentoring.
Tone: Relaxed and conversational.
12. In Essence
Meaning: To express the main or core idea.
Explanation: Summarizes something concisely and elegantly.
Example: “In essence, trust is what keeps a team strong.”
Best Use: Summaries, reflections, or professional communication.
Tone: Poised and thoughtful.
13. To Sum Up
Meaning: To conclude or restate the main point.
Explanation: Ideal for wrapping up discussions or emphasizing clarity.
Example: “To sum up, we need teamwork and consistency.”
Best Use: Reports, meetings, or summaries.
Tone: Neutral and concise.
14. That Means
Meaning: To explain what something implies or results in.
Explanation: Natural for everyday speech.
Example: “The deadline moved up — that means we have less time.”
Best Use: Conversational or explanatory tone.
Tone: Direct and clear.
15. In Short
Meaning: To summarize something briefly.
Explanation: Great for simplifying long discussions or conclusions.
Example: “In short, it’s all about communication.”
Best Use: Professional or casual summaries.
Tone: Crisp and balanced.
16. Simply Stated
Meaning: To express something in plain terms.
Explanation: A bit more formal, but still warm and clear.
Example: “Simply stated, honesty builds trust.”
Best Use: Writing or professional communication.
Tone: Refined and gentle.
Read More: 30 Other Ways to Say ‘I Have a Lot of Experience’ (With Examples)
17. Let Me Rephrase That
Meaning: Used when clarifying or correcting something you’ve just said.
Explanation: Shows self-awareness and respect.
Example: “Let me rephrase that — I didn’t mean it that way.”
Best Use: Conversations requiring empathy or tact.
Tone: Polite and humble.
18. Or Rather
Meaning: To adjust or correct what was just said.
Explanation: Adds refinement and precision.
Example: “She’s busy — or rather, she’s prioritizing differently.”
Best Use: Written or thoughtful speech.
Tone: Polished and respectful.
19. That’s to Say
Meaning: To elaborate or explain something in different terms.
Explanation: Often used in formal writing or structured discussions.
Example: “He’s a visionary — that’s to say, he sees what others can’t.”
Best Use: Essays, speeches, or analytical writing.
Tone: Formal but approachable.
20. To Explain
Meaning: To make something easier to understand.
Explanation: Straightforward and widely used.
Example: “To explain, this change improves efficiency.”
Best Use: Teaching, writing, or presentations.
Tone: Clear and instructive.
21. Essentially
Meaning: Expresses the main or core idea of something.
Explanation: Works beautifully in both spoken and written English.
Example: “Essentially, we all want the same thing — respect.”
Best Use: Summarizing complex ideas.
Tone: Calm and insightful.
22. To Put Things in Perspective
Meaning: Helps reframe an idea in a clearer or broader way.
Explanation: Encourages understanding through comparison or context.
Example: “To put things in perspective, that’s double last year’s sales.”
Best Use: Presentations, coaching, or analytical talks.
Tone: Reflective and grounded.
23. Meaning
Meaning: A direct way to define or explain.
Explanation: Casual and efficient for day-to-day conversation.
Example: “He’s not here — meaning, the meeting’s postponed.”
Best Use: Informal speech.
Tone: Simple and direct.
24. To Put It Another Way Around
Meaning: To reframe a statement from a different angle.
Explanation: Offers a more dynamic shift in viewpoint.
Example: “To put it another way around, we could try listening more.”
Best Use: Reflective conversations.
Tone: Thoughtful and flexible.
25. To Put It Bluntly
Meaning: To say something directly, without sugarcoating.
Explanation: Sometimes necessary for honesty.
Example: “To put it bluntly, we need to fix this now.”
Best Use: When clarity matters more than softness.
Tone: Direct but assertive.
26. The Point Is
Meaning: To highlight the main idea or takeaway.
Explanation: Keeps attention on what truly matters.
Example: “The point is, communication is key.”
Best Use: Discussions, summaries, or debates.
Tone: Strong and clear.
27. To Restate
Meaning: To say something again in a different way.
Explanation: Useful for emphasis or clarity.
Example: “To restate, deadlines must be met on time.”
Best Use: Professional writing or meetings.
Tone: Formal and focused.
28. To Put It Lightly
Meaning: Used when the reality is stronger than your words suggest.
Explanation: Adds a touch of understatement or humor.
Example: “The project was chaotic — to put it lightly.”
Best Use: Light sarcasm or storytelling.
Tone: Witty and polite.
29. In Plain English
Meaning: To explain something without jargon.
Explanation: Invites clarity and accessibility.
Example: “In plain English, the policy just means more flexibility.”
Best Use: Teaching, writing, or simplifying terms.
Tone: Friendly and inclusive.
30. To Put It Clearly
Meaning: To make your meaning transparent and direct.
Explanation: Ensures no confusion remains.
Example: “To put it clearly, this change benefits everyone.”
Best Use: Professional and educational communication.
Tone: Transparent and confident.
Conclusion
Finding alternatives to “In other words” helps you express yourself with more clarity, variety, and empathy. Whether you’re explaining a concept, softening a correction, or just trying to connect, choosing the right phrase makes your words feel genuine and thoughtful — the kind that truly resonates with people.
Emma Rose is a dedicated language expert at Grammar Apex, committed to making grammar simple and accessible for everyone. With a deep understanding of language rules and a passion for clear communication, she provides expert guidance on everything from punctuation to sentence structure.