a better explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a better explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing explanations and indicating that one is superior to another. Example: "After reviewing both theories, I found that the second one provided a better explanation for the observed phenomena."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Maybe tomorrow we'll have a better explanation.

Cornell University

"I wish I had a better explanation".

The New York Times

He owes the country a better explanation.

The Washington Post

But now maybe there's a better explanation.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

By contrast, bone remodeling activity seems to provide a better explanation of both.

Bone

Data from a new mission should help scientists find a better explanation.

The New Yorker

In both cases, however, there's a better explanation for what happened.

The New York Times

But a better explanation is that it has so little might left.

The Guardian - Opinion

A better explanation is the Knicks' sudden inability to win away from Madison Square Garden.

The New York Times - Sports

"But a better explanation would be that concerns elsewhere overwhelmed the BOJ action".

The Guardian - Business

Andrews's innovation is to wonder whether "energy systems" might provide a better explanation than ideology.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting alternative explanations, clearly state why "a better explanation" is superior in terms of evidence, logic, or clarity. Provide specific reasons and examples to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid simply claiming that an explanation is "a better explanation" without providing sufficient justification. Ensure you offer concrete reasons and evidence to support your assertion; otherwise, it may appear biased or unsubstantiated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a better explanation" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or object within a sentence. It is used to introduce a superior or more satisfactory account than one previously offered or considered. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

22%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a better explanation" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce an improved or more satisfactory account of something. Ludwig AI verifies this assessment. It's frequently found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, indicating its wide applicability. When using this phrase, ensure you provide clear reasons and evidence to support why the explanation is indeed superior. Related phrases include "a more compelling rationale" and "a clearer interpretation". Avoid using it without proper justification to maintain credibility and clarity in your writing. Remember to offer robust support to ensure your claim of providing "a better explanation" holds weight.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a more compelling rationale

Emphasizes the persuasiveness and logical strength of the explanation.

a clearer interpretation

Highlights the ease of understanding and lucidity of the explanation.

a superior account

Highlights the higher quality and accuracy of the explanation.

a more insightful analysis

Emphasizes the depth and understanding provided by the explanation.

a more plausible hypothesis

Suggests the explanation is more believable and likely to be true.

a more satisfying answer

Focuses on the completeness and fulfilling nature of the explanation.

a stronger argument

Focuses on the validity and persuasiveness of the reasoning.

an improved justification

Stresses the enhancement and strengthening of the reason provided.

a more convincing story

Highlights the believability and persuasiveness of the explanation.

a deeper understanding

Implies a more thorough and profound comprehension is offered.

FAQs

How can I use "a better explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "a better explanation" when you want to present an alternative explanation that is more accurate, complete, or logical than a previous one. For example, "While the initial theory had some merit, this new evidence provides "a better explanation" for the observed phenomenon".

What phrases can I use instead of "a better explanation"?

Alternatives include "a more compelling rationale", "a superior account", or "a clearer interpretation", depending on the context and the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

When should I use "a better explanation" over "the best explanation"?

"A better explanation" is appropriate when you are comparing two or more explanations and want to suggest that one is superior, but you may not have enough evidence to definitively claim it is "the best". "The best explanation" implies that no other explanation is more accurate or complete.

What makes an explanation "a better explanation"?

An explanation can be considered ""a better explanation"" if it more accurately accounts for the available evidence, is more logically consistent, addresses more relevant factors, is easier to understand, or provides greater predictive power than alternative explanations.