Definify.com
Definition 2024
or_words_to_that_effect
or words to that effect
English
Phrase
- (idiomatic) used to indicate a paraphrase or the chance of an error in the details of reported speech.
- When he hit his finger with the hammer, he said "ouch" or words to that effect.
- 2004 August, Doug Stewart, “Shore Thing.”, in Smithsonian, volume 34, number 5:
- they were beyond earshot of the American commander, Capt. James Lawrence, who implored his men: "Don't give up the ship!" (or words to that effect).
Synonyms
- (indicating paraphrase): OWTTE