# in other words

idiom · CEFR B1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/in-other-words
Updated: 2026-04-22

## Meaning

you use this to explain something again in a simpler or different way to make it clearer.

## Examples

- In other words, you want to leave early today.
- The instructions were confusing; in other words, we need to start the whole project over from the beginning.
- The author argues that the system is inefficient; in other words, it fails to provide the necessary support for those who need it most.

## Origin

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

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.