let me put it this way | how shall I put it?

This page is about the conversational phrase let me put it this way | how shall I put it?

Meaning

You can say this before telling someone what you really think, esp. if you're saying it as politely or gently as you can.

For example

  • When asked about the history teacher, the principal said, "Let me put it this way. He knows his history, but his teaching skills could be better."

  • "What's Daniel's new girlfriend like?"
    "Well, I don't think she's - how shall I put it? - ever going to be a top model. But she seems nice enough."

Note:
Also "let me put it like this"

Quick Quiz

You can say "let me put it this way" or "how shall I put it?" if you're

a. changing something's position

b. saying what you really think

c. not sure what to think
a) changing something's position b) saying what you really think c) not sure what to think

Contributor: Matt Errey