in so many words {adv. phr.} 1. In those exact words. * /He hinted that he thought we were foolish but did not say so in so many words./ 2. or[in no uncertain terms] In an outspoken way; plainly; directly. * /I told him in so many words that he was crazy./ * /Bob was very late for their date, and Mary told Bob in no uncertain terms what she thought of him./ Compare: WORDS OF ONE SYLLABLE.