in words of one syllable
(redirected from in words with one syllable)in words of one syllable
In simple terms that are easy to understand. (Usually implying that the listener is unintelligent.) You're helping my brother set up his computer? Be sure you explain things in words of one syllable.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
words of one syllable, in
In simple terms, as in I don't understand financial derivatives-can you explain them in words of one syllable? [Colloquial; 1920s]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
in words of one syllable
If you explain something to someone in words of one syllable, you explain it very simply and clearly. I'm sure I don't have to spell things out in words of one syllable to you. He wanted to know if I would help out. I told him in words of one syllable that I would not. Note: You sometimes use this expression to suggest that the other person is stupid or slow to understand something.
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012
in words of one syllable
using very simple language; expressed plainly. 1994 Canal & Riverboat Bear with me then, if I use words of one syllable now and again, in this series of articles for L drivers.
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
in words of one ˈsyllable
using very simple language so that somebody will understand: They didn’t seem to understand my explanation, so I explained it all again in words of one syllable.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017