a compelling explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a compelling explanation" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when you need to describe an explanation that is convincing, persuasive, or powerful. For example, "The professor gave us a compelling explanation for why the experiment was not successful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Other scientists praised the book as a compelling explanation of the science.

The New York Times - Health

A compelling explanation, however, involves the threat that legislative change poses to the various agencies' powers and budgets.

The New York Times

He assured NBC's chief executive, Steve Burke, he would look into the camera and offer a compelling explanation of his lapse.

The New Yorker

In the Times today, Jonathan Ansfield and Ian Johnson have laid out a compelling explanation for why the most powerful men in China were truly unnerved by Bo.

The New Yorker

Cosmologists have tended to favor cold dark matter as a compelling explanation for how the universe evolved from a nearly uniform mix of elementary particles in the beginning to its present clumpy structure of galaxies of stars.

The New York Times - Science

These are the losers from globalisation, and Putinism provides a compelling explanation for their plight: cosmopolitan liberals have betrayed their own working people and favoured "different folk", whether immigrants or gay people.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Still, the idea that Washington gridlock is an outgrowth of rank partisanship and ideological entrenchment misses a more compelling explanation of our political stasis: gridlock, legislative threats and fear help prime the donation pump.

The New York Times

Fortunately, there is a more compelling explanation.

The New York Times

Mr. Sachs finds geography a more compelling explanation.

The New York Times - Arts

This may well be true, but there is a more compelling explanation: global labor arbitrage.

The New York Times

"Unless there is a very compelling explanation for this, the covert evidence is very unlikely to be admissible in evidence.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a compelling explanation" when you want to emphasize that an explanation is not only logical but also persuasive and likely to convince the audience. Consider the context and choose this phrase when you want to highlight the strength and persuasiveness of the explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "compelling" merely as a stylistic flourish. Ensure the explanation truly warrants the adjective by being well-supported, logical, and convincing. A weak explanation described as "compelling" will undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a compelling explanation" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object or subject complement in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It serves to identify and describe a specific type of explanation, one that is particularly convincing or persuasive.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

56%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a compelling explanation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies an explanation that is convincing and persuasive. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts. It's found commonly in scientific discourse, news reporting, and formal business communication. To ensure effective use, writers should verify that the explanation truly justifies the "compelling" adjective by being logically sound and well-supported. Remember, alternatives such as "a convincing rationale", "a persuasive argument", and "a sound justification" may be more suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a convincing rationale

This alternative replaces "explanation" with "rationale", emphasizing the logical basis of the explanation.

a persuasive argument

This option shifts the focus to the argumentative nature of the explanation, highlighting its ability to persuade.

a sound justification

This alternative emphasizes the validity and reasonableness of the explanation.

a solid interpretation

This option is useful when the explanation involves interpreting data or information.

a powerful account

This phrase highlights the strength and impact of the explanation.

a credible hypothesis

This alternative is appropriate when the explanation is presented as a testable scientific hypothesis.

a tenable analysis

Using "tenable analysis" suggests that the explanation is defensible and can withstand scrutiny.

a valid assessment

This phrase presents the explanation as a well-founded evaluation or judgment.

an irrefutable case

This alternative emphasizes the incontrovertible nature of the explanation or evidence.

a decisive account

This option highlights the conclusive and definitive nature of the explanation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a compelling explanation" to describe a reason or justification that is convincing and persuasive. For example, "The scientist provided "a compelling explanation" for the unexpected results of the experiment."

What are some alternatives to "a compelling explanation"?

You can use alternatives like "a convincing rationale", "a persuasive argument", or "a sound justification" depending on the specific context.

What makes an explanation "compelling"?

A "compelling explanation" is one that is not only logically sound but also persuasive and convincing. It typically involves strong evidence, clear reasoning, and a coherent narrative that resonates with the audience.

Is it appropriate to use "a compelling explanation" in formal writing?

Yes, "a compelling explanation" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a professional and effective way to describe an explanation that is well-supported and convincing. It can be used in academic papers, business reports, and other formal contexts.