Allow me to explain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Allow me to explain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to introduce an explanation or clarify something to the reader. Example: "Before we proceed, allow me to explain the reasoning behind our decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Allow me to explain.

The New York Times

Allow me to explain, as I will at every dinner party I attend for the next eight years.

The Guardian

"Allow me to explain all this, sir. The reason no one met your plane today, I'm sure, is that some of your congressmen — " "Sure, I know.

The New Yorker

Allow me to explain: The Pixies were always noted for structuring their songs in a certain way that is often referred to as Loud – Quiet – Loud.

Independent

Allow me to explain: "Trollhunter" is a recently released faux documentary from the Norwegian filmmaker Andre Ovredal about a group of film students who stumble on a government agency charged with controlling Norway's troll population.

The New York Times - Magazine

Allow me to explain... Part of the process of me getting an English degree (I graduate next week) involved writing a dissertation - I'm sure all you long-lost graduates remember this tedious burden.

The Guardian - Music

Allow me to explain, a bit.

BBC

Allow me to explain the difference.

TechCrunch

Allow me to explain to Professor Padilla-Walker how college works for most kids.

TechCrunch

Allow me to explain why.

Vice

Allow me to explain further.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience's understanding level when using this phrase; it signals that further clarification is necessary.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "Allow me to explain". Vary your sentence structure by using synonyms like "let me clarify" or "let me elaborate" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Allow me to explain" functions as an introductory device. It signals the speaker's intention to provide clarification, justification, or a more detailed account of a topic. Ludwig confirms this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

21%

Science

12%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Allow me to explain" is a versatile introductory phrase used to signal an upcoming explanation or clarification. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and is very commonly used, particularly in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. When using this phrase, consider the context and audience to ensure the explanation is well-received and avoid overuse to maintain reader engagement. Alternatives like "let me explain" or "permit me to explain" can provide stylistic variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Let me explain

Direct synonym, differing only in the level of formality. "Let me explain" is slightly less formal.

Permit me to explain

More formal synonym, using "permit" instead of "allow".

I would like to explain

Polite and slightly more hesitant way to offer an explanation.

Let me clarify

Focuses on making something clearer, rather than just explaining it.

Allow me to elaborate

Offers a more detailed explanation.

If I may explain

More tentative and polite, seeking permission to explain.

By way of explanation

Provides a reason or justification for something.

To explain further

Introduces additional details to an existing explanation.

For the purpose of clarity

Highlights the intent to make something easily understood.

To put it another way

Offers a rephrasing of a concept for better understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "Allow me to explain" in a sentence?

You can use "Allow me to explain" to introduce a clarification or detailed account of something. For example, "Allow me to explain the reasoning behind this decision" or "Allow me to explain how the process works".

What's a more formal way to say "Allow me to explain"?

A more formal alternative is "permit me to explain". This option uses a more formal verb ("permit") to convey the same meaning.

What can I say instead of "Allow me to explain" in a casual setting?

In a more casual context, you could say "let me explain". It's a simpler and less formal way to introduce an explanation.

Is it redundant to follow "Allow me to explain" with a simple statement?

Yes, following "Allow me to explain" with a very basic or obvious statement can sound condescending. Use it when you genuinely need to provide a more comprehensive explanation.