Is It Okay to Use 'In Their Own Terms'?

Often, in English, there are several ways to express the same idea, and the choice of words can convey a range of meanings. One such phrase is 'in their own terms,' which can be used in various contexts but may require careful consideration to avoid ambiguity or unintended offense. Let’s explore the phrase and its usage.

What 'In Their Own Terms' Means

The phrase 'in their own terms' can be used in two different contexts:

Referring to a group's unique perspectives or language: When someone uses 'in their own terms,' they refer to a group of people who have their own particular way of expressing things, often with a canny twist or a gentle mockery. This can be playful, such as when describing how someone from a different community or background might explain things. For example: 'We wish to draw up a working constitution for the Local Amenity Society and want to involve the people from Dopey Dell in this IN THEIR OWN TERMS chat about running the club; where’s the money coming from, eh?' Referring to a more formal or condition-bound agreement: In contrast, 'in their own terms' can also mean that one party is holding the power and will only agree to discussions based on mutually agreed-upon terms. This indicates that the other side must adhere to specific conditions.

When Is It Acceptable to Use 'In Their Own Terms'?

Whether the phrase is acceptable largely depends on the context and the relationship between the parties involved. If you're engaging in a friendly and inclusive conversation, using 'in their own terms' can be playful and endearing. However, in a business or professional setting, the phrase might come across as less formal or more condescending.

Examples of Usage

Example 1: In a Friendly or Colloquial Setting:

"We’re planning to collaborate with the local artists on the mural project. They tend to communicate in their own terms, so let’s prepare a concise plan that captures their vision and ideas accurately."

Here, 'in their own terms' refers to the unique and perhaps unconventional way the artists may communicate their ideas.

Example 2: In a More Formal Context:

"The two sides sat down for negotiations, but it was clear that they could only proceed discussions IN THEIR OWN TERMS, meaning that any agreement would be contingent on the pre-existing conditions they had set forth."

In this case, 'in their own terms' indicates that the negotiations were strictly based on previously agreed-upon conditions.

When Is It Not Acceptable to Use 'In Their Own Terms'?

While the phrase can be used effectively in many contexts, it can also lead to misunderstandings or even offense if not used carefully. Here are some scenarios to avoid:

Unintentional Hierarchy Imposition: Using 'in their own terms' to refer to less educated or less formal communication can come across as condescending, implying that the other party is not understanding or adhering to the norms. Professional Inappropriateness: In professional settings, it may be more appropriate to use more formal or neutral phrasing to convey special conditions or unique circumstances.

Alternatives to 'In Their Own Terms'

If you want to avoid any ambiguity or potential misinterpretation, consider these alternatives:

'On their own terms:' This phrase can refer to the specific conditions or starting points that a party demands. 'In their own unique way:' This is a more general term that can refer to a distinct method of communication or expression. 'In their distinctive manner:' This is another way to express that someone or something has a unique style or approach.

Conclusion

The phrase 'in their own terms' is versatile and can be used in both friendly and formal contexts. To ensure that your usage is appropriate and clear, consider the context and the relationship between the parties involved. Whether you opt for 'in their own terms' or choose a more formal alternative, the key is to convey your message clearly and avoid any unintended offense or misinterpretation.