noun

term

turm

noun

A word or expression, especially one with a specific meaning in a particular field.

"The lecturer explained the technical terms before starting the lesson."

""Bull market" is a term used a lot in finance."

A fixed period of time, especially one in office or one dividing an academic year.

"The president is elected for a four-year term."

"School starts again for the new term in September."

In plural, the conditions set out in an agreement or contract.

"Make sure you read the terms before signing the lease."

"They negotiated better terms for the loan."

verb

To call or describe something by a particular name.

"She termed the decision "a huge mistake.""

"Some would term his behaviour reckless."

How to Use Term

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishCan mean a specific word/label, a fixed stretch of time, or (in plural) the conditions of a deal.

Common mistake

Don't confuse "terms" (contract conditions) with "terminology" (a whole set of specialist words).

Common pairings

technical term prison term terms and conditions on good terms

termed past tense, termed past tense, terms plural, terms plural, terms plural, terms singular, terms singular

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Can you complete this real example?

The lecturer explained the technical _____ before starting the lesson.

From Old French terme, from Latin terminus, "a boundary or limit."

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axe fire sack can take kindle loose guitar appoint