I explain that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I explain that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you are clarifying or providing information about a specific topic or situation. Example: "In my report, I explain that the new policy will improve efficiency and reduce costs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Can I explain that?

The New York Times

Now you've got to sit back and say, how do I explain that?

The New York Times

I explain that, as a client, I don't care how much you know, I care how much you care.

The New York Times

This is how I explain that move to myself: Whitewater kayaking is a sport of hyper-vigilance.

The New Yorker

So now, how do I explain that paper?" Mornings have been misery since the arrival of that paper.

The New York Times

How shall I explain that?

International Journal of STEM Education

Or: "How do I explain that experts differ on this matter?

BMC Medical Education

I explain that that's not the point.

The New Yorker

I explain that nothing happened before that.

The New York Times - Magazine

"How did I explain that to myself?

The New York Times - Style

How could I explain that he was really fascinating?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I explain that" when you want to clearly communicate that you are providing an explanation, ensuring the reader understands you are about to clarify something.

Common error

Avoid using "I explain that" in overly casual conversations; opt for simpler alternatives like "I said" or "I meant" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I explain that" functions as a reporting verb, introducing an explanation or clarification. Ludwig provides numerous examples across diverse sources, highlighting its role in conveying information or providing details.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I explain that" is a commonly used phrase that functions as a reporting verb, introducing an explanation or clarification. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and appears across various reputable sources, particularly in news and media and science. While versatile, consider using simpler alternatives in informal contexts to maintain a natural tone. When used appropriately, "I explain that" effectively provides clarity and ensures understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I clarify that

Replaces "explain" with "clarify", emphasizing the act of making something clearer.

I state that

Uses "state" to present information as a declaration or formal announcement.

I indicate that

Uses "indicate" to suggest or point out information, often more subtly than explaining directly.

I point out that

Emphasizes drawing attention to a specific detail or fact.

I mention that

Implies a brief or casual reference to something.

I assert that

Conveys a strong and confident declaration of a fact or belief.

I reveal that

Highlights the act of making something known that was previously hidden or unknown.

I disclose that

Suggests making information known, especially if it was previously confidential.

I submit that

Formally present something for consideration or judgment.

I propose that

Introduce a suggestion or plan for consideration.

FAQs

How to use "I explain that" in a sentence?

Use "I explain that" to introduce a clarification or a detailed account of something. For example: "I explain that the new policy aims to improve efficiency."

What can I say instead of "I explain that"?

You can use alternatives like "I clarify that", "I state that", or "I indicate that" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "I explain that" or "I am explaining that"?

"I explain that" is generally used for summaries or formal explanations, while "I am explaining that" is used to describe an ongoing act of explaining. Both are grammatically correct, but their usage depends on the context.

What's the difference between "I explain that" and "I mentioned that"?

"I explain that" suggests a detailed account, while "I mentioned that" implies a brief or casual reference. The choice depends on how much detail you are providing.