Meaning & use

term

noun·Academic

A word or phrase with a specific meaning, especially within a particular subject or field.

See it in a sentence

The textbook defines every technical term in a glossary at the back.

In legal writing, precise terms help avoid confusion between similar concepts.

A note on using this word

Also used in the plural, 'terms,' to mean the conditions of an agreement.

Words with a similar meaning

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. noun

A fixed period of time during which something happens, such as a school term or a term of office.

The president is elected for a term of four years.

3. noun

The conditions of an agreement, especially in a contract.

Both companies finally agreed on the terms of the merger.

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