1
Core logical function
Restate an idea in clearer, simpler, or more explicit terms.
Example
The species is endemic; in other words, it occurs naturally nowhere else.
in other words
/ɪn ˈʌðə wɜːdz/ · in UTH-ur wurdzrestatement transition
Restate an idea in clearer, simpler, or more explicit terms.
Use in other words to express this relationship precisely: restate an idea in clearer, simpler, or more explicit terms.
What in other words Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Sentence connection
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
In other words, the model predicts stability only when all three conditions hold.
3
Argument-level effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The fee is regressive—poorer households, in other words, pay a larger share of their income.
Use in other words Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The species is endemic; in other words, it occurs naturally nowhere else.
In other words, the model predicts stability only when all three conditions hold.
The fee is regressive—poorer households, in other words, pay a larger share of their income.
Precision Matters
In other words overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
in other words
vs.Means restate an idea in clearer, simpler, or more explicit terms.
in effect
Means state what something amounts to in practice or restate its essential implication.
in other words
vs.Means restate an idea in clearer, simpler, or more explicit terms.
in fact
Means emphasise that a statement is true, often by strengthening or correcting what came before.
in other words
vs.Means restate an idea in clearer, simpler, or more explicit terms.
for example
Means introduce an illustration that supports, clarifies, or demonstrates a broader statement.
in other words
vs.Means restate an idea in clearer, simpler, or more explicit terms.
draw a conclusion
Means reach a reasoned judgment by interpreting evidence or premises.
Test in other words in Context
The second sentence explains the specialised term in clearer language.
1
The inscription is palimpsestic. ___, a later text was written over an earlier one.