"in the simplest of term"

Question

I have been really baffled by the use of the following expression -

"Put in the simplest of terms, he studies how to "control the number of times a wave focuses at a point," (Discover magazine)

Is there an explanation/origin for the expression "the simplest OF terms"?
My grammatical understanding of the expression would be "the simplest of terms" is a shorter version of "the simplest term of all terms", but unless the understanding is wrong, wouldn't "the simplest terms" be simpler and convey a similar connotation ?

Any help? Thank you

AlpheccaStars · Accepted Answer

It probably comes from "terms and conditions" which is common in contracts.

See definition 4:
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/terms

4. a. A word or group of words having a particular meaning: had to explain the term gridlock.
b. terms Language of a certain kind; chosen words: spoke in rather vague terms; praised him in glowing terms.

Clive · Answer

Hi,

I have been really baffled by the use of the following expression -

"Put in the simplest of terms, he studies how to "control the number of times a wave focuses at a point," (Discover magazine)

Is there an explanation/origin for the expression "the simplest OF terms"?
My grammatical understanding of the expression would be "the simplest of terms" is a shorter version of "the simplest term of all terms", Yes
but unless the understanding is wrong, wouldn't "the simplest terms" be simpler and convey a similar connotation ?
That's because there is often no real difference intended between 'term and 'terms'.
But consider these examples.
"the tallest boy of all boys" You are talking about one boy.
"the tallest boys" You are talking about more than one boy.

Clive

"in the simplest of term"

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