Used and loved by millions

Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

MitStanfordHarvardAustralian Nationa UniversityNanyangOxford

On my own terms

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on my own terms" is correct and usable in written English
It is often used to express the idea of doing something independently, especially when rejecting advice from others. For example, you might say, "I want to live my life on my own terms, not according to what others think I should do."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Don't tell me what I think … If "on my own terms" means "on time and not suspended without warning leaving me in rent arrears" then absolutely, yes.

Most important, I would invest my savings in a supportive, long-term living arrangement, one that I would choose, on my own terms.

News & Media

The New York Times

Remember, I respect brands that speak my language — ones that let me engage with them on my own terms, allowing me to be part of the conversation.

News & Media

The New Yorker

It's the one place I can truly be me, on my own, on my own terms".

News & Media

Huffington Post

If one day I have to leave Britain I want it to be on my own terms.

News & Media

The Guardian

I made a vow to myself, when the time comes no-one's going to carry me out, I'm going to walk out on my own terms.

News & Media

BBC

On my own terms.

I'm living on my own terms.

News & Media

The New York Times

I want to leave on my own terms.

I can do it on my own terms".

It uses my supposed infamy on my own terms".

Show more...

Expert writing Tips

✓ Best practice

When describing a negotiation or compromise, using "on my own terms" can highlight the power dynamic and who is setting the agenda.

⚠ Common error

Avoid using "on my own terms" to suggest you are working in complete isolation or without any collaboration. The phrase implies control over the conditions, not necessarily the absence of interaction.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on my own terms" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used to express agency and control.

Expression frequency: Very common

✓ Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

⚠ Less common in

Social Media

1%

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on my own terms" is a prevalent and grammatically sound phrase used to convey independence and control over actions, as validated by Ludwig. It functions as an adverbial phrase, primarily found in news and media, but also applicable across formal and informal contexts. The phrase emphasizes the desire to dictate conditions and resist external pressures. Alternatives include "independently" and "under my own conditions". Remember to use it to express personal agency, but avoid implying complete isolation. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its consistent usage and grammatical correctness, making it a powerful tool for expressing self-determination.

FAQs

How can I use "on my own terms" in a sentence?

You can use "on my own terms" to indicate that you are choosing to do something in your own way, according to your own conditions. For example, "I decided to leave the company "on my own terms", rather than being forced out."

What's an alternative to saying "on my own terms"?

Alternatives include "independently", "under my own conditions", or "by my own rules" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "on my terms" or "on my own terms"?

"On my terms" and "on my own terms" are often interchangeable, but "on my own terms" emphasizes independence and personal agency more strongly. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Can "on my own terms" be used in a professional setting?

Yes, "on my own terms" is appropriate in professional contexts when discussing career choices, project management, or negotiation strategies. For instance, "I prefer to manage my projects "at my discretion" and "according to my preferences"."

ChatGPT power + Grammarly precisionChatGPT power + Grammarly precision
ChatGPT + Grammarly

Editing plus AI, all in one place.

Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.

Source & Trust

93%

Authority and reliability

4.6/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: