How to Use the Verb “Term” in English

When learning the English language, it's important to understand that while words often function as nouns, adjectives, or even adverbs, they can also act as verbs. One such versatile word is 'term.' While it is commonly used as a noun, for example, in the context of 'agreement' or as a period, there is also a less frequently employed form of the verb 'term.' This form is often used in formal contexts to convey the action of labeling or designating something.

Noun Usage of 'Term'

The most familiar usage of 'term' is as a noun, as in 'agreement' or 'specific period of time.' Consider these examples:

- The term of the agreement is five years.

- John has just started his school term.

Verb Usage of 'Term'

When used as a verb, 'term' means to call or designate something. Unlike its noun form, it is more formal and is often seen in academic or research contexts. For instance:

- Jean Piaget has termed the period from a child's birth to 18 months old as the sensorimotor phase.

- Stephen Krashen has termed the native language as L1 and the foreign language as L2.

- That recent action of his has been termed unpresidential.

Here, 'term' is used to describe the act of labeling or bringing to light a term, particularly in formal or research settings. Another example would be:

- I would term that a disgraceful remark.

- This policy has been termed as revolutionary for its innovative approach.

Formality and Usage Context

The verb form of 'term' is more commonly used in research and academic writing. It carries a connotation of formality and precision, as it is often employed to formally introduce or define concepts, terms, or ideas. For example, in a research paper, one might say:

- The model we are proposing in this study will be termed the 'Advanced Multi-Level Interconnectivity Model.'

This usage of 'term' is much more formal than simply saying 'call' or 'named something.' It adds a sense of authority and clarity to the statement, indicating that a specific term has been chosen to describe a concept or idea with precision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while 'term' is primarily a noun in everyday usage, it can also function as a verb to denote labeling or designating. This form is particularly useful in academic and research contexts, where precision and formality are paramount. By mastering the verb form of 'term,' one can enhance the clarity and professionalism of their writing.