Self-explanatory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "self-explanatory" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when something is clear and does not require further explanation. For example, "The instructions are self-explanatory." Alternative expressions include "clear," "obvious," and "evident."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

("Self-explanatory," Scott said).

The New York Times - Sports

Self-explanatory, huh?

Huffington Post

And it's self-explanatory.

The New York Times - Tech

That seemed self-explanatory.

The Guardian - Opinion

Water Polio (Self-explanatory).

The New Yorker

It's pretty self-explanatory.

The Guardian

This one is self-explanatory.

The New Yorker

The title's rather self-explanatory.

The Guardian - Sport

AdAm This one's self-explanatory.

The New Yorker

The app isn't self-explanatory.

The Guardian - Tech

The script was self-explanatory".

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When documenting processes or creating instructions, aim for steps to be "self-explanatory" to minimize user confusion and support requests.

Common error

Avoid using "self-explanatory" as a substitute for providing actual details or instructions. While it might seem obvious to you, the audience may require more information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "self-explanatory" functions as an adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that the noun's meaning or purpose is readily understood without further explanation. As Ludwig AI data confirms, it's frequently used to describe instructions, titles, or concepts that are straightforward.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "self-explanatory" is a common and grammatically sound adjective phrase used to describe something easily understood without further explanation. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is versatile, appearing frequently in news, media, and scientific contexts. While widely accepted and often used, it's crucial to avoid overuse and ensure clarity by providing sufficient detail. Consider using alternative phrases like "easily understood" or "readily apparent" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

easily understood

This phrase focuses on the ease of comprehension, highlighting that the subject requires minimal effort to grasp.

readily apparent

This suggests that the meaning is immediately visible or obvious, requiring no deep analysis.

patently obvious

Emphasizes the obviousness to an even greater degree, implying that the meaning is undeniable.

crystal clear

Suggests a lack of ambiguity and complete transparency in the meaning.

plain as day

This idiom indicates that something is extremely obvious and easy to understand.

unambiguous

Focuses on the lack of multiple interpretations; the meaning is singular and direct.

evident

Implies that the meaning is clearly visible or noticeable.

manifest

Suggests the meaning is openly displayed or revealed, leaving no room for doubt.

straightforward

Indicates a simple and direct meaning, free from complications or hidden layers.

intuitively obvious

Highlights that understanding comes naturally and without conscious reasoning.

FAQs

How can I use "self-explanatory" in a sentence?

You can use "self-explanatory" to describe something that is easy to understand without needing further explanation. For example, "The instructions are "self-explanatory"" or "The diagram is "self-explanatory"."

What is a good alternative to "self-explanatory"?

Alternatives include "easily understood", "readily apparent", or "crystal clear". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it okay to assume something is "self-explanatory" without checking?

It's generally best to avoid assuming something is "self-explanatory". What seems obvious to one person might be confusing to another. Provide sufficient detail whenever possible to ensure clarity.

When is it appropriate to use "self-explanatory" in technical documentation?

Use "self-explanatory" sparingly in technical documentation, and only when the functionality or process is truly obvious to the intended audience. Always prioritize clarity and completeness over brevity.