Have you ever found yourself stuck using the phrase “simply put” over and over again? You’re not alone. It’s easy to rely on familiar expressions when trying to explain something clearly, but too much repetition can make your writing or speech sound dull and repetitive. If you want your words to shine with clarity and professionalism, it’s time to discover some fresh, formal ways to say “simply put.”
Whether you’re writing a report, preparing a presentation, or just want to communicate more effectively, using varied phrases helps keep your audience interested. It also shows you have a strong command of language, making your message more precise and powerful. Imagine being able to say the same idea but with a new twist every time — that’s the kind of impact these alternatives can bring.
In this post, I’m excited to share 25 compelling alternatives to “simply put” that sound formal yet approachable. Each option is chosen to help you express ideas clearly while adding a touch of style and personality to your writing or speaking. You’ll also find practical examples for each phrase to see how it works in real sentences, plus a quick explanation of why that phrase is effective.
Ready to level up your communication skills and break free from repetitive phrases? Let’s explore these options together and make your compliments, explanations, and descriptions stand out like never before. Scroll down to find your new favorite way to say “simply put” with confidence and flair!
Alternatives to “Simply Put”
1. To put it plainly
This phrase is a classic way to introduce a simple explanation without confusion. It signals you’re about to break down a complex idea into something easy to understand, which makes your communication feel honest and direct.
Examples:
- To put it plainly, the project needs more time to meet quality standards.
- The rules, to put it plainly, are designed to keep everyone safe.
- To put it plainly, we must improve our customer service to stay competitive.
- The financial report, to put it plainly, shows where we can cut costs.
- To put it plainly, this plan won’t work without more resources.
Why it works:
It uses straightforward language that immediately prepares the listener or reader for a clear and honest explanation, helping build trust and focus.
2. In straightforward terms
When you want to avoid jargon or complicated language, this phrase helps set the tone for a clear, simple explanation. It’s professional and encourages easy understanding.
Examples:
- In straightforward terms, the new policy means fewer benefits for employees.
- We need, in straightforward terms, to increase our sales to stay afloat.
- In straightforward terms, this software update improves speed and security.
- In straightforward terms, the deadline is non-negotiable.
- The report, in straightforward terms, highlights our biggest challenges.
Why it works:
It emphasizes clarity and simplicity, helping to break down complex information into manageable parts without sounding condescending.
3. To state it clearly
Use this when you want to emphasize accuracy and avoid misunderstanding. It signals precision and professionalism in your communication.
Examples:
- To state it clearly, the budget cuts will affect all departments.
- The contract, to state it clearly, requires you to complete the work by June.
- To state it clearly, customer satisfaction is our top priority this year.
- The guidelines, to state it clearly, must be followed exactly as written.
- To state it clearly, we cannot accept late submissions.
Why it works:
It underscores the importance of the message and shows you’re committed to clear, unambiguous communication.
4. In essence
This phrase is perfect for summarizing the core idea of a longer explanation. It helps focus attention on what really matters.
Examples:
- In essence, the company is shifting towards more sustainable practices.
- The argument, in essence, boils down to trust and transparency.
- In essence, our goal is to provide better service at a lower cost.
- The problem, in essence, is a lack of clear communication.
- In essence, this decision reflects our commitment to innovation.
Why it works:
It highlights the heart of the matter, making your message concise and impactful.
5. In brief
Use this when you want to give a quick summary without unnecessary details. It’s formal but approachable.
Examples:
- In brief, the project was successful despite the challenges.
- The meeting, in brief, covered budget concerns and next steps.
- In brief, our sales increased by 15% last quarter.
- The instructions, in brief, are to follow the safety protocols strictly.
- In brief, the new system will improve efficiency.
Why it works:
It signals a short, clear summary, perfect for busy readers who want to grasp the main points fast.
6. To summarize
This phrase is great when you want to wrap up a longer explanation or discussion by highlighting the key points. It signals to your audience that a concise recap is coming.
Examples:
- To summarize, the marketing campaign increased brand awareness significantly.
- The data is complex, but to summarize, sales are trending upward.
- To summarize, employee feedback points to the need for better training.
- The presentation was detailed, but to summarize, the project is on track.
- To summarize, we must focus on quality to remain competitive.
Why it works:
It clearly marks a transition to a brief overview, helping the reader or listener stay focused and absorb the main ideas quickly.
7. In simple terms
This phrase works well when you want to break down a technical or complicated idea for a general audience. It shows you’re making an effort to communicate clearly without jargon.
Examples:
- In simple terms, the software helps manage customer data more efficiently.
- The policy, in simple terms, means employees get more paid time off.
- In simple terms, our goal is to make the website easier to use.
- The math problem, in simple terms, is about dividing resources fairly.
- In simple terms, this agreement benefits both parties equally.
Why it works:
It makes complex concepts feel accessible and easy to grasp, which is especially helpful in formal writing aimed at diverse audiences.
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8. Put simply
A casual but formal phrase, “put simply” is often used to introduce an uncomplicated explanation. It’s friendly and approachable while maintaining clarity.
Examples:
- Put simply, the company needs to reduce expenses to survive.
- The new system, put simply, saves time and cuts errors.
- Put simply, customer satisfaction drives our business success.
- The rules, put simply, require everyone to follow safety protocols.
- Put simply, this plan won’t work without proper funding.
Why it works:
It immediately sets the expectation that what follows is easy to understand, making your message clear and straightforward.
9. To clarify
Use this phrase when you want to remove any possible confusion or ambiguity. It helps emphasize precision and ensures your audience understands your point exactly.
Examples:
- To clarify, the deadline for submissions is next Friday.
- The policy, to clarify, does not apply to part-time employees.
- To clarify, the discount is only available for new customers.
- To clarify, the meeting has been rescheduled to Tuesday.
- To clarify, all team members must complete the training.
Why it works:
It signals that you’re about to explain something carefully and precisely, reducing misunderstandings.
10. To be concise
This phrase tells your reader or listener that you’re aiming to be brief and to the point. It’s helpful when cutting down lengthy explanations.
Examples:
- To be concise, the project was a success with some minor setbacks.
- To be concise, the report recommends several key improvements.
- To be concise, we need to focus on customer retention strategies.
- To be concise, the budget will be reduced by 10% next year.
- To be concise, the new policy aims to improve workplace safety.
Why it works:
It shows respect for your audience’s time by promising a short, direct explanation.
11. To express it plainly
This phrase adds a touch of formality while showing that you’re committed to making your message easy to understand.
Examples:
- To express it plainly, our profits have declined this quarter.
- The situation, to express it plainly, requires immediate attention.
- To express it plainly, we cannot accept the current proposal.
- To express it plainly, the plan needs more work before approval.
- To express it plainly, communication has been poor among teams.
Why it works:
It reassures the audience that your explanation will be straightforward and clear, building trust.
12. To make it clear
This phrase emphasizes your intention to eliminate confusion and highlight the important parts of your message.
Examples:
- To make it clear, all employees must submit their reports by Monday.
- The terms, to make it clear, include a six-month warranty.
- To make it clear, the new system replaces the old software completely.
- To make it clear, attendance is mandatory for all team members.
- To make it clear, the price does not include taxes or fees.
Why it works:
It underlines transparency and straightforwardness, which helps maintain credibility.
13. In a nutshell
A friendly, informal phrase that can also work in formal settings when you want to give a very brief summary. It helps keep things light and easy to follow.
Examples:
- In a nutshell, the project was completed on time and under budget.
- The plan, in a nutshell, is to expand our market share.
- In a nutshell, we need to improve customer service immediately.
- The data, in a nutshell, shows a positive growth trend.
- In a nutshell, this strategy focuses on long-term sustainability.
Why it works:
It provides a quick, catchy summary that sticks in the reader’s mind, making complex info digestible.
14. To sum up
This phrase is perfect for concluding a longer explanation or argument by restating the main points briefly.
Examples:
- To sum up, the proposal offers several benefits and a clear timeline.
- The meeting covered many topics, but to sum up, action is needed soon.
- To sum up, our team exceeded all key performance indicators.
- The research, to sum up, supports our initial hypothesis.
- To sum up, customer feedback has been mostly positive.
Why it works:
It signals closure and helps your audience remember the key takeaways from your message.
15. To say it briefly
This phrase highlights your effort to keep explanations short and focused, which is often appreciated in formal communication.
Examples:
- To say it briefly, we must update our software immediately.
- The project, to say it briefly, is facing some unexpected delays.
- To say it briefly, the new policy reduces operational costs.
- The feedback, to say it briefly, was overwhelmingly positive.
- To say it briefly, teamwork is essential for this project’s success.
Why it works:
It sets a clear expectation for brevity, making your communication feel efficient and respectful of the audience’s time.
16. To explain succinctly
This phrase stresses clarity and compactness in your explanation, ideal for formal documents and presentations.
Examples:
- To explain succinctly, our profits increased due to better marketing.
- The procedure, to explain succinctly, involves three main steps.
- To explain succinctly, the policy aims to enhance workplace safety.
- The report, to explain succinctly, identifies key risk areas.
- To explain succinctly, we need to improve customer satisfaction ratings.
Why it works:
It signals professionalism and control over your message, boosting confidence in your audience.
17. To put it succinctly
This formal phrase adds polish and sophistication while promising a concise explanation.
Examples:
- To put it succinctly, the project failed due to poor planning.
- The results, to put it succinctly, exceeded expectations.
- To put it succinctly, the budget cuts are unavoidable.
- The instructions, to put it succinctly, are easy to follow.
- To put it succinctly, teamwork drives our success.
Why it works:
It shows your ability to condense information without losing meaning, which is highly valued in formal communication.
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18. To say it simply
This phrase is friendly and clear, perfect for making your message easy to understand without sounding too casual.
Examples:
- To say it simply, we need more resources to complete the task.
- The explanation, to say it simply, is that the system is outdated.
- To say it simply, customer satisfaction is our top priority.
- The problem, to say it simply, is a lack of communication.
- To say it simply, this plan requires additional funding.
Why it works:
It invites your audience to follow along easily, making your message accessible and clear.
19. In clear terms
Use this phrase to emphasize transparency and straightforwardness in your explanation.
Examples:
- In clear terms, the contract requires immediate action.
- The policy, in clear terms, protects employee rights.
- In clear terms, the deadline cannot be extended.
- The guidelines, in clear terms, must be followed strictly.
- In clear terms, the product warranty lasts one year.
Why it works:
It stresses clarity and authority, which helps prevent misunderstandings.
20. To articulate plainly
This phrase is a bit more formal and emphasizes careful wording and clarity.
Examples:
- To articulate plainly, the project requires more funding.
- The message, to articulate plainly, is that changes are coming.
- To articulate plainly, the new rules will affect all employees.
- The issue, to articulate plainly, involves resource allocation.
- To articulate plainly, our focus is on customer satisfaction.
Why it works:
It signals thoughtful communication and precise expression, enhancing your credibility.
21. To express it clearly
This phrase emphasizes delivering your message with absolute clarity. It’s a solid choice when you want to make sure your audience fully understands your point without any confusion.
Examples:
- To express it clearly, all team members must meet the deadline.
- The policy, to express it clearly, will improve workplace safety.
- To express it clearly, the budget cuts are non-negotiable.
- The report, to express it clearly, highlights key areas for improvement.
- To express it clearly, customer feedback drives our product updates.
Why it works:
It reassures your audience that you are committed to making your message straightforward and easy to grasp, which builds trust and confidence.
22. To put it in other words
This phrase is useful when you want to restate an idea using different wording to improve understanding or emphasis.
Examples:
- To put it in other words, we need to double our marketing efforts.
- The plan failed, to put it in other words, because of poor communication.
- To put it in other words, the new system saves both time and money.
- The deadline is tight, to put it in other words, we must act fast.
- To put it in other words, customer satisfaction is our top priority.
Why it works:
It shows flexibility in communication and helps clarify complex ideas by offering a fresh perspective.
23. To cut to the chase
This phrase is a bit more informal but can be used in formal settings to signal that you’re getting straight to the important point without unnecessary detail.
Examples:
- To cut to the chase, we need to approve the budget now.
- The presentation was long, but to cut to the chase, the project is on track.
- To cut to the chase, the client wants a faster delivery date.
- To cut to the chase, we must improve customer service immediately.
- The discussion was confusing, so to cut to the chase, we need a clear plan.
Why it works:
It helps focus attention quickly on the main message, which can be very effective in business communication.
24. To state it succinctly
This phrase highlights your ability to express ideas in a clear, brief, and efficient manner, which is essential in formal writing.
Examples:
- To state it succinctly, the project was delayed due to unforeseen issues.
- The findings, to state it succinctly, support the need for change.
- To state it succinctly, we must reduce costs to improve profitability.
- The instructions, to state it succinctly, are easy to follow.
- To state it succinctly, teamwork is the key to success.
Why it works:
It projects professionalism and respect for your audience’s time by getting straight to the point.
25. To boil it down
This phrase is great for summarizing complex information into its most essential elements, making it easier for the audience to understand.
Examples:
- To boil it down, we need better communication across departments.
- The report is detailed, but to boil it down, sales need to increase.
- To boil it down, the main challenge is resource allocation.
- The presentation was long, but to boil it down, the project is viable.
- To boil it down, customer satisfaction drives repeat business.
Why it works:
It’s a vivid, informal way to say you’re distilling information to its core, which helps the audience grasp important points quickly.
Final Thoughts
Mastering these formal alternatives to “simply put” will not only help you avoid repetition but also elevate the clarity and professionalism of your writing and speech. Each phrase carries a slightly different tone or nuance, allowing you to tailor your message perfectly to your audience and context. By weaving these expressions into your communication toolkit, you’ll engage readers and listeners with style, precision, and confidence.
Try practicing a few in your next email, report, or presentation and notice how much more engaging and polished your language becomes. Your audience will appreciate your clear, thoughtful approach — and you’ll enjoy expressing your ideas with fresh, compelling words!
Now that you’ve got these powerful phrases at your fingertips, go ahead and explore them fully. Your next clear and confident message is just a phrase away!
I’m Leo Knox, the wordplay wizard behind WordsTwists.com where I turn everyday meanings into funny, clever, and creative twists. If you’re tired of saying things the boring way, I’ve got a better (and funnier) one for you!
