a complete explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complete explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an explanation that is thorough and covers all necessary details on a particular topic. Example: "In order to understand the concept fully, the teacher provided a complete explanation of the theory."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, it is not a complete explanation.

The Economist

Both matter, of course, but neither provides a complete explanation.

The Economist

A complete explanation of the FERPA policy can be found here.

Columbia University

A complete explanation of the FERPA policy may be found here.

Columbia University

The Iraqi connections are one explanation - but not a complete explanation - for Western hostility.

Independent

This isn't a complete explanation of the campaign's stunning success, of course.

The New York Times - Magazine

Of course, the median voter theorem is far from a complete explanation of politics.

The New York Times

But that hardly offers a complete explanation for this revolution in the Palestinian approach.

The New York Times

What is needed for a complete explanation is an ultimate evolutionary cause.It is easy to speculate.

The Economist

His innate artistry, his courage and his proficiency with the camera are not a complete explanation of his achievements.

The Guardian

Treatment of recurrent hyperventilation begins with a complete explanation by the patient of the condition and the symptoms it causes.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a complete explanation", ensure that the explanation is indeed thorough and covers all relevant aspects of the topic. Providing additional context or examples can enhance its clarity and effectiveness.

Common error

Avoid assuming the audience has prior knowledge of the subject matter. Even with "a complete explanation", start with foundational concepts to ensure everyone can follow along.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complete explanation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "provide", "offer", "require") or as a complement to a noun. This is reinforced by Ludwig's examples, which demonstrate its role in conveying thoroughness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complete explanation" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote a thorough and comprehensive exposition of a topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across diverse fields like science, news, and academia. To enhance clarity, ensure that your explanations are thorough and tailored to the audience's level of understanding. While numerous alternatives exist, such as "a thorough explanation" or "a comprehensive explanation", the key is to provide sufficient detail to ensure a full understanding. Remember to avoid assumptions about prior knowledge and always start with foundational concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thorough explanation

Focuses on the depth and detail of the explanation.

a comprehensive explanation

Emphasizes the broad scope and inclusiveness of the explanation.

a detailed explanation

Highlights the level of specificity and precision in the explanation.

a full explanation

Stresses the completeness and lack of omission in the explanation.

a satisfactory explanation

Indicates the explanation meets requirements and is considered enough.

an exhaustive explanation

Implies that the explanation covers all aspects and possibilities.

a conclusive explanation

Highlights the definitive and decisive nature of the explanation.

a definitive explanation

Suggests the explanation is authoritative and leaves no room for doubt.

a clear explanation

Focuses on the ease with which the explanation can be understood.

an elaborate explanation

Implies the explanation is complex and highly developed.

FAQs

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

You can use "a complete explanation" to introduce a thorough exposition of a topic, as in "The professor provided "a complete explanation" of the theory, covering all its nuances".

What are some alternatives to "a complete explanation"?

Alternatives include "a thorough explanation", "a comprehensive explanation", or "a detailed explanation", each emphasizing different aspects of the explanation's quality.

When is it necessary to offer "a complete explanation"?

Offering "a complete explanation" is crucial when addressing complex or unfamiliar topics, especially in academic, scientific, or formal settings where clarity and detail are essential.

What differentiates "a complete explanation" from a simple summary?

"":A complete explanation" goes beyond a basic summary by delving into the intricacies of a subject, offering comprehensive details and addressing potential questions or ambiguities, ensuring a thorough understanding.