I explained that this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I explained that this" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to convey that you provided clarification or information about a specific topic or situation. Example: "During the meeting, I explained that this was the best approach to solve the issue at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

I explained that this was our 45th tour.

The New York Times

"I explained that this was very personal," she said.

The New York Times - Sports

I explained that this isn't exactly correct, although the assumption was understandable, because Sayyid finds a large number of sex drugs and paraphernalia in the trash.

The New Yorker

"I explained that this was not about me wanting to be a model, this was not about me wanting to be an actor.

The New Yorker

I explained that this was the moment when the 1970s finally outgrew the 1960s, when the monochrome world of boring, boring south-east England had exploded in a fiesta of colour.

Independent

I explained that this happened long ago, in a faraway land, where there was no such thing as a Gristede's, a McDonald's or a corner pushcart where the bad guys could buy their dinner -- they had to hunt for it.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

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

BMC Medical Education

Can I explain that?

The New York Times

I explain that this is a country built on freedoms.

The Guardian - Opinion

I explain that this is the very journalistic question I was sent to investigate.

The New Yorker

I explain that this is always a good sign, though not until I have finished swearing and we are safely seated at our table washing down oysters (me) and foie gras (her) with a refreshing bottle of rosé.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your sentence structure by sometimes placing the explanation before "I explained that this", for example: "Because of the high cost, I explained that this project needed additional funding".

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "I explained that this". Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Consider using synonyms or rephrasing the sentence to improve flow and readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I explained that this" serves as a reporting clause, introducing an explanation or clarification provided by the speaker. Ludwig shows that the phrase is frequently used to introduce a reason, a cause, or a piece of information.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I explained that this" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to introduce an explanation or clarification. As noted by Ludwig, it serves to provide context and convey information, particularly in news and media, but also in scientific and formal business settings. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and avoid overuse by employing synonyms such as "I clarified that this" or rephrasing sentences for improved flow. By using this knowledge, you can make your writing more effective and clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I clarified that this

Focuses more on clearing up confusion or ambiguity.

I indicated that this

Emphasizes pointing something out or making it known.

I described this as

Highlights providing a detailed account or explanation.

I specified that this

Stresses making something specific or detailed.

I communicated that this

Focuses on the act of conveying information.

I mentioned that this

Suggests a brief or casual reference.

I stated that this

Implies a formal or official declaration.

My explanation was that this

Shifts the focus to the explanation itself.

I detailed that this

Emphasizes a comprehensive and thorough explanation.

I conveyed that this

Highlights the act of passing on the information.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "I explained that this" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "I clarified that this", "I indicated that this", or "I specified that this". These options, like "I clarified that this", often convey a more professional tone.

What's a simpler way to say "I explained that this"?

Simpler alternatives include "I said that this", "I mentioned that this", or "I told them that this". These options, like "I said that this", are more direct and suitable for informal contexts.

How do I avoid repeating "I explained that this" in my writing?

To avoid repetition, vary your sentence structure or use synonyms. For example, instead of "I explained that this was the best option", try "My explanation was that this was the best option" or "I detailed that this was the best option". These alternatives, like "My explanation was that this", add variety to your writing.

Is "I explained that this" always the best choice, or are there times when it's less effective?

While "I explained that this" is grammatically correct, it may not always be the most impactful choice. If you want to emphasize the information itself rather than your act of explaining, consider omitting "I explained that" altogether. For instance, instead of "I explained that this was due to budget constraints", you could simply say "This was due to budget constraints".