Word
that is to say
Definition
fixed phrase. you use this when you want to explain something more clearly or give more detail about what you just said.
fixed phrase. a parenthetical phrase used to introduce a clarification, a more precise restatement, or a specific explanation of a preceding statement.
Examples
“He is a polyglot; that is to say, he speaks many languages.”
“The company is restructuring, that is to say, some departments will be merged to save costs.”
“The results were statistically insignificant; that is to say, the observed variations could easily have occurred by chance alone.”
Examples
simple
“He is a polyglot; that is to say, he speaks many languages.”
contextual
“The company is restructuring, that is to say, some departments will be merged to save costs.”
complex
“The results were statistically insignificant; that is to say, the observed variations could easily have occurred by chance alone.”
Usage
usually set off by commas or a semicolon to separate the clarification from the main clause.
Teaching tip
teach this as a more formal alternative to 'in other words' or 'I mean'; it is particularly useful for academic writing and formal presentations.
Related words
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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