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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
On my own terms
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE 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
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
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.
News & Media
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
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
It's the one place I can truly be me, on my own, on my own terms".
News & Media
If one day I have to leave Britain I want it to be on my own terms.
News & Media
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
On my own terms.
News & Media
I'm living on my own terms.
News & Media
I want to leave on my own terms.
News & Media
I can do it on my own terms".
News & Media
It uses my supposed infamy on my own terms".
News & Media
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.
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.
Alternative expressions
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
under my own conditions
This option highlights the setting of personal rules or requirements for proceeding, mirroring the original phrase more directly.
by my own rules
Similar to 'under my own conditions', but emphasizes the establishment and adherence to personal guidelines.
at my discretion
Highlights the freedom to decide and act according to one's own judgment, implying control over the situation.
independently
This alternative focuses on acting without outside influence or help, omitting the emphasis on pre-set conditions.
by my own volition
This alternative emphasizes doing something out of one's own free will and decision.
as I see fit
Focuses on acting according to one's own judgment or preference, which may include setting conditions.
More alternative expressions(6)
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"."
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
93%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested