I try to explain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I try to explain" is grammatically correct and is commonly used in written English.
It can be used to express an attempt to clarify or make something understood. Example: "I try to explain the concept to my students, but they seem confused."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I try to explain.

The New York Times

"But he's — " I try to explain.

The New Yorker

"I try to explain feelings with metaphor.

The New York Times - Arts

"But he's—" I try to explain.

The New Yorker

I try to explain this to people; nobody gets it.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I try to explain that it's not the new people.

The New York Times

I try to explain to people, this isn't your fault".

The New York Times - Health

"I try to explain that I'm a feminist, too.

The New York Times - Magazine

I try to explain the British phenomenon of Nigella Lawson.

The Guardian

"Whenever I try to explain what's happening in American politics..

The New York Times

I try to explain how, technically, I'm right.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "I try to explain" with specific details or examples to support your explanation. This helps the audience grasp the concept more easily and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid making your explanation too complex or using overly technical language when you "I try to explain". Focus on clarity and simplicity to ensure your audience understands your point effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I try to explain" functions as a declarative statement indicating an effort to clarify or convey understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage. It is often used to introduce an explanation or justification.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I try to explain" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to introduce an attempt to clarify or convey understanding. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that the phrase is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news media and scientific writing. While generally neutral in register, it serves the communicative purpose of signaling an upcoming explanation, allowing the audience to anticipate and better understand the information being presented. When using this phrase, clarity and conciseness are crucial to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I attempt to clarify

Focuses on making something clearer, highlighting the goal of clarification.

I endeavor to elucidate

Emphasizes a more formal and thorough explanation.

I aim to clarify

Highlights the intention and purpose behind the explanation.

I seek to illuminate

Implies bringing light or understanding to a topic.

I am trying to clarify

Uses a continuous tense to describe the act of clarification in progress.

I am attempting to explain

Similar in meaning, but uses 'attempting' to emphasize effort.

I try to articulate

Focuses on expressing something clearly and effectively.

Let me explain

A more direct and assertive way of offering an explanation.

Allow me to elaborate

Suggests providing more details or expanding on a point.

I will try to explain

Expresses future intention to provide an explanation.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "I try to explain"?

You can use alternatives like "I attempt to clarify", "I aim to clarify", or "Let me explain" depending on the context.

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

You can use "I try to explain" to introduce a clarification or justification. For example, "I try to explain the concept, but it's difficult to grasp".

Which is correct, "I try to explain" or "I am trying to explain"?

Both "I try to explain" and "I am trying to explain" are grammatically correct. The former suggests a habitual action, while the latter suggests an action in progress.

What's the difference between "I try to explain" and "I attempt to explain"?

"I try to explain" is more commonly used and informal, while "I attempt to explain" is more formal and emphasizes the effort being made.