Is There an Alternative to "In Terms of"?

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The discussion centers around the frequent use of the phrase "in terms of" and seeks alternatives to enhance conversational variety. Participants suggest that this phrase often serves as a filler and can be omitted without loss of meaning. Alternatives like "regarding," "with respect to," and "such as" are proposed, along with the more formal "vis a vis." The conversation also touches on the tendency to use habitual phrases in both spoken and written communication, emphasizing the importance of being mindful of language to avoid redundancy. Participants acknowledge that while some phrases may slip into conversation unintentionally, it’s beneficial to consciously seek variety to improve clarity and engagement.
_Mayday_
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I'll cut to the chase.

I find myself using the phrase 'in terms of' alot. I will say something and then say in terms of followed by the topic I am referring to.

Is there an alternative to this? If so I need it!

Thanks!

_Mayday_
 
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If you find yourself saying this over and over, then it's just a meaningless "filler." Just taking up space in your conversation. You can probably just delete it without replacing it with anything.

Otherwise, "regarding" or "such as" could suffice in some cases. "With respect to" means the same thing. "Vis a vis" (pronounced "vee za vee") is a good one, but never use it more than once a week.

"As is the case with" is OK conversationally, but very poor in written communication.
 
do you:

1) say it 'on purpose' ?

2) or does it slip out, you notice it, and you really don't want to say it?
 
There are certain words and connecting phrases I use frequently. I notice it most often when I am typing up my responses here. Conversationally it's not so bad. Most people do it. That's why it's a major focus in writing faux pas. If you just take some time to think about it when ever you encounter yourself using a habitual turn of phrase you'll likely come up with an alternative.



Habitual words/phrases in this post...
"certain"
"most often"
"likely"
 
Well, duh !, actually, you see, it's like this, you know... a word that, I mean, so to speak, basically, most certainly puts things into context, OK ? Now, anyway, wait ! Let's see... Gee !, what was I saying ?
 
humanino said:
Well, duh !, actually, you see, it's like this, you know... a word that, I mean, so to speak, basically, most certainly puts things into context, OK ? Now, anyway, wait ! Let's see... Gee !, what was I saying ?

:smile:
 
As long as you avoid the terms "basically", "literally", "give it 110%" and "take it to the next level" you're OK by me.
 
Well, you got to do what you got to do, and such. At the end of the day, all that really matters is what by and large we have and hold dearly.
 
DaveC426913 said:
As long as you avoid the terms "basically", "literally", "give it 110%" and "take it to the next level" you're OK by me.

Haha! I hate that!

rewebster said:
do you:

1) say it 'on purpose' ?

2) or does it slip out, you notice it, and you really don't want to say it?

I say it on purpose, it all sounds good and I won't over do it in a conversation. I just get a bit annoyed with my lack of variation.

Thanks for your help guys!

_Mayday_
 
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