All phrases › in no uncertain terms
What does “in no uncertain terms” mean?
Meaning, example sentence and a quick practice question.
C1
Very clearly and directly, leaving no room for doubt
“She told him in no uncertain terms that it wasn't acceptable.”
Say it smoothly: “in-no-un-cer-tin-terms”
From the C1 lesson Reading Between the Lines (honest communication).
Quick check
What does “in no uncertain terms” mean?
Teaching this phrase?“in no uncertain terms” is part of a ready-to-teach lesson, with a reading, three exercises, speaking tasks and an answer key, in Everyday English Chunks C1 Pack 4 (Communication, Decisions and Habits).
See the C1 lesson pack
See the C1 lesson pack
Or get all 32 lessons in the complete C1 course and save 25%.
Want to use phrases like this with confidence?Practice them in a one-to-one lesson with me, an experienced online English teacher.
Book a lesson
Book a lesson
Related phrases
- read between the linesto understand a hidden or implied meaning, not just the literal words
- beat around the bushto avoid saying something directly, out of hesitation
- pull no punchesto speak very directly and honestly, even if it's uncomfortable
- sugar-coat somethingto make bad news sound better or gentler than it is
- get your point acrossto successfully communicate what you mean
- a diplomatic answera careful, tactful response that avoids offense or commitment
- choose your words carefullyto think deliberately about how to phrase something sensitive
- break the iceto ease initial awkwardness, usually at the start of a meeting or gathering
- drive the point hometo emphasize something strongly so it's clearly understood