phrase

in other words

in UH-thuhr WURDZ

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In other words (phrase) means used to introduce a restatement of something in simpler or blunter language, making the meaning clearer. Example: “The department is restructuring; in other words, people are losing their jobs.”

phrase

Used to introduce a restatement of something in simpler or blunter language, making the meaning clearer.

"The department is restructuring; in other words, people are losing their jobs."

"She said she'd think about it. In other words, no."

How to use in other words

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSaid before you repeat something in a clearer or more direct way.

When to use it

Neutral; frequently used to deliver a blunt translation of polite language.

Memory tip

The phrase often signals a translation from euphemism to plain speech, so what follows is usually the harsher version.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

that is i.e. → namely →

Common pairings

in other words, no or, in other words

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The department is restructuring; _____, people are losing their jobs.

Etymology

Compare similar calques such as Spanish en otras palabras, Portuguese em outras palavras, French en d'autres termes and Italian in altre parole.

Synonyms

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that is to say put another way i.e. namely

Related words

specifically namely notable i.e. videlicet

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between in other words and that is?

Both restate what came before, but in other words usually rewrites the idea in plainer or more honest language, while that is (or i.e.) tends to add a precise clarification or definition.

Do you put a comma after in other words?

Yes when it opens a clause: In other words, we are out of time. It is often preceded by a semicolon or full stop when it links two independent statements.

Is in other words the same as i.e.?

They serve the same function, but i.e. belongs to written and often formal or technical prose, while in other words is spoken as well as written and carries a slightly more interpretive tone.

What is the meaning of in other words?

"in other words" (phrase) means used to introduce a restatement of something in simpler or blunter language, making the meaning clearer.

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specifically namely notable i.e. videlicet