in so many words

phrase

1
: using exactly those terms
implied that such actions were criminal but did not say so in so many words
2
: using plain forthright language
In so many words, she wasn't fit to be seen.—Jean Stafford

Examples of in so many words in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
White’s lyrics are bittersweet pinpricks, his keening vocals already in mourning of childhood’s end—of responsibility, of bathing yourself, in so many words, knowledge of death. — Ryan Meehan, Pitchfork, 26 Oct. 2026 On their way out, and in so many words, Beatrice essentially apologizes for Smallwood’s behavior to Serena (and even congratulates her on the baby). — Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 23 Oct. 2026 Though Li never says it in so many words, this was the start of a fascination. — Sky Davis, Christian Science Monitor, 13 Oct. 2026 That’s not quite the same as being sent to the unemployment line, but make no mistake — this is the Red Wings firing Yzerman as GM, in spirit if not in so many words. — Sean McIndoe, New York Times, 16 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of in so many words was in 1580

Rhymes for in so many words

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Browse Nearby Words

insolvent
in so many words
in someone's absence
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In so many words.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20so%20many%20words. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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