Offer an explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Offer an explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting someone to provide reasons or details about a particular situation or topic. Example: "Please offer an explanation for the delay in the project timeline so we can address any issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

An impaired BBB could offer an explanation for the increased response to LPS by mTerc−/− microglia.

Aging Cell

Nor does job growth offer an explanation.

The Economist

Did he offer an explanation?

The Guardian - Sport

Let me offer an explanation.

The New York Times

I didn't offer an explanation.

The New Yorker

Otherwise, I wouldn't even offer an explanation.

The New York Times

But Mr. Obama went on to offer an explanation anyway.

The New York Times

But Mr. Trujillo said he could not offer an explanation.

The New York Times

She did not offer an explanation for the outage.

The New York Times

It falls to Mr. Viruet himself to offer an explanation.

The New York Times

A team official declined to offer an explanation.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "offer an explanation", ensure the context clearly indicates what needs to be explained. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid phrasing like "An explanation was offered" when the active voice ("He offered an explanation") is more direct and engaging. The active voice typically leads to clearer communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "offer an explanation" functions as a verb phrase where "offer" is the verb indicating the action of presenting or providing, and "an explanation" is the noun phrase representing what is being offered. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "offer an explanation" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that serves to provide clarification or justification. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usability. It's prevalent in news, scientific, and professional contexts, making it a versatile choice for various communication needs. While alternatives like "provide an explanation" or "give an explanation" exist, this phrase maintains a neutral to professional tone suitable for diverse scenarios. Avoiding passive voice constructions and ensuring context-specific clarity are key best practices to consider when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Provide an explanation

Uses "provide" instead of "offer", maintaining the same core meaning.

Give an explanation

Substitutes "offer" with "give", resulting in a slightly more informal tone.

Supply an explanation

Replaces "offer" with "supply", emphasizing the act of providing what is needed for understanding.

Present an explanation

Uses "present" instead of "offer", giving a slightly more formal feel.

Propose an explanation

Suggests offering a possible explanation, implying less certainty.

Furnish an explanation

Replaces "offer" with "furnish", which is a more formal and less common alternative.

Deliver an explanation

Emphasizes the act of formally conveying an explanation.

Advance an explanation

Suggests putting forward an explanation for consideration or debate.

Submit an explanation

Implies formally presenting an explanation, often in writing.

Put forward an explanation

Emphasizes the act of introducing or suggesting an explanation for consideration.

FAQs

What's the difference between "offer an explanation" and "provide an explanation"?

While both phrases are very similar, "offer an explanation" suggests a willingness to clarify, whereas "provide an explanation" implies actually giving the details. The choice often depends on whether you're highlighting the intent or the action. "Provide an explanation" is more direct.

When is it appropriate to use "offer an explanation"?

"Offer an explanation" is suitable when someone is willing or ready to clarify a situation, action, or statement. It implies a potential for further information to be given, especially if there's confusion or a need for understanding.

Are there more formal alternatives to "offer an explanation"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "furnish an explanation", "submit an explanation", or "present an explanation". These options are more appropriate in professional or academic settings compared to the more common "offer an explanation".

Can "offer an explanation" be used in a negative context?

Yes, it can. For example, "He refused to offer an explanation" indicates a deliberate withholding of information. The phrase itself is neutral; the context determines its tone.