The explanation for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "The explanation for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when introducing a reason or justification for something that has been mentioned or will be discussed. Example: "The explanation for the sudden change in policy lies in the recent market research findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The explanation for this sudden change?

The Economist

The explanation for this bonanza is simple.

The New York Times

The explanation for this is politics.

The Washington Post

The explanation for this is straightforward.

The New York Times

The explanation for his unpredictable actions?

The New York Times - Tech

The explanation for this is clear.

The Guardian - Opinion

The explanation for this error is clear.

Cornell University

The explanation for that from the man himself was familiar.

The Guardian - Sport

The explanation for the difference is largely technical.

The New York Times

The explanation for this is both simple and profoundly strange.

The New Yorker

The explanation for this fiscal sleight of hand is simple.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the explanation for", ensure that the noun or event you are explaining is clearly stated beforehand to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "The explanation for is complex", specify what you are explaining: "The explanation for the sudden market crash is complex".

Common error

Avoid using "the explanation for" without a clear subject. For instance, stating "The explanation for is unclear" lacks context. Instead, specify what is unclear: "The explanation for the experiment's unexpected outcome is unclear" to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "The explanation for" functions as a prepositional phrase acting as a noun phrase. It introduces the underlying reasons or causes of a phenomenon. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "The explanation for" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces the reasons or causes behind a particular event or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across a range of contexts. Primarily found in news, science, and academic writing, it serves to provide clarity by detailing underlying causes. While versatile, consider the register of your writing, as it may be too direct for informal contexts. Remember to clearly state the subject of explanation to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternative phrases like "the reason for" or "the rationale behind" depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The reason why

A more direct and commonly used alternative for indicating cause.

The motive for

Focuses on the underlying reason or intention behind an action.

The reasoning for

Emphasizes the logical thought process behind a decision or event.

The rationale for

Highlights the logical basis or justification for something.

The cause of

Points directly to the origin or source that produces a result.

The basis for

Indicates the foundation or groundwork upon which something rests.

The justification for

Highlights the reasons or data that support an action or belief.

The grounds for

Refers to the specific reasons or facts that support a particular stance or action.

The account of

Refers to the description, report or story of a particular event.

The root of

Suggests the fundamental source or origin of something, often a problem or issue.

FAQs

How can I use "The explanation for" in a sentence?

Use "The explanation for" to introduce the reason or cause behind a particular event, situation, or phenomenon. For example: "The explanation for the project's delay is a lack of funding".

What are some alternatives to "The explanation for"?

Alternatives include phrases like "the reason for", "the rationale behind", or "the motive for", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "the reason for" or "the explanation for"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. "The reason for" tends to be more general, while "the explanation for" might imply a more detailed or complex justification.

When is it appropriate to use "The explanation for" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "The explanation for" when you want to provide a clear and direct reason or justification for something, particularly in academic, news, or formal contexts. Consider the register and purpose of writing when choosing between alternatives.