WordGarden.ioterm
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /tˈɜːm/
US
- /ˈtɜrm/
Meanings
Noun
a word or expression used for a particular thing or idea
a fixed or limited period of time
one of the main periods of a school or college year
More meaningsFewer meanings
a condition, requirement, or provision in an agreement
one part of an expression or equation
Verb
to describe or name in a particular way
Beyond the definition
The word "term" has a few common uses. It can mean a set period of time, like a school term, a prison term, or the length of a loan. It can also mean a rule or condition in an agreement, as in "the terms of the contract." In language, it can mean a special word or phrase used in a certain subject, such as a scientific or legal term.
Think about joining a gym: you may sign up for a six-month term under certain terms. A lawyer may use legal terms in a contract. You can also say that two people are "on good terms," which means they have a friendly relationship.
The word "term" has several distinct meanings, making it a bit of a chameleon in the English language. At its core, a term signifies a defined period of time. This could be an academic term (like a fall semester), a political term (a president's four years in office), or the term of a contract (the length of time it is valid).
However, "term" also refers to a condition or requirement that must be met. When you agree to something, you accept its terms. These are the specific rules or conditions outlined in an agreement. For example: "The terms of the sale included a non-refundable deposit."
Beyond time and conditions, "term" is used in language to denote a word or phrase with a specific meaning within a particular field. A "medical term" refers to specialized vocabulary used by healthcare professionals. Similarly, you might encounter "economic terms" when reading about finance.
Finally, "term" can describe the state of a relationship between people. To be "on good terms" means to have a friendly and harmonious connection with someone. Conversely, being "on bad terms" suggests conflict or estrangement.
So, whether it's measuring time, outlining conditions, defining language, or describing relationships, the word "term" is all about boundaries, definitions, and agreements.
Examples
- 1
Medical language
Doctors use the term "viral load" when they talk about the amount of virus in the body.
- 2
Asking for a word
What's the term for someone who studies insects?
- 3
Contract period
She signed a contract for a two-year term.
- 4
School period
The autumn term ends just before Christmas.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Near future
In the short term, the company plans to hire more staff.
- Phrasein the short term
over a short period of time
- 6
Considering aspect
In terms of cost, taking the train is the better option.
- Patternin terms of + aspect
when considering that particular aspect
- 7
Friendly relations
He's on good terms with his neighbors.
- Phraseon good terms with
having a friendly relationship with
- 8
Acceptance
It took her a long time to come to terms with the news.
- Phrasecome to terms with
gradually accept a difficult situation
- 9
Formal description
Several newspapers have termed the decision a failure.
- Patternterm someone/something + description
call or describe them in that way
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- technical term
- medical term
- in simple terms
- define a term
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- termnounverb
Forms
- termspluralnounverb
- termedpast tenseverbnoun
- terming-ing formverbnoun