a convincing explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a convincing explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an explanation that is persuasive or believable in nature. Example: "The scientist provided a convincing explanation for the unusual results of the experiment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I have never heard or read a convincing explanation.

The New Yorker

In the absence of a convincing explanation, it looks petty".

The Guardian

Kathleen Geir offers a convincing explanation as to why.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I haven't seen a convincing explanation of why 2015 was different from 2014," says Zebiak.

Yale University

Not only was it not a convincing explanation, it proved to be a self-deluded one.

The Guardian - Opinion

The All-China Journalocal authorities urged local autoorities to provide a convincing explanation of Chen's detention.

The Guardian - Opinion

Theorists have yet to find a convincing explanation for why high-temperature superconductors superconduct at all.

The New York Times - Science

Nobody has a convincing explanation for why this is, but it is the case.

The New York Times - Magazine

And nobody has yet come up with a convincing explanation of why that might be.

The Guardian

As with the name Millan, a convincing explanation for the animal explosion is elusive.

The New York Times

I'd be interested to hear a convincing explanation for this particular incident.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a convincing explanation", ensure that the explanation is supported by evidence and logical reasoning to enhance its credibility.

Common error

Avoid presenting an explanation as "a convincing explanation" when it lacks sufficient supporting evidence or contains logical fallacies. Acknowledge potential weaknesses or alternative interpretations to maintain objectivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a convincing explanation" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb or preposition, describing the nature of an explanation that is presented. Ludwig AI indicates this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a convincing explanation" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes a rationale that is both believable and well-supported. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely applicable across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic settings. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that the explanation is indeed persuasive and backed by solid evidence. Alternatives such as ""a persuasive rationale"" or ""a compelling justification"" can be used to add nuance. However, overstating the strength of an explanation without sufficient backing should be avoided to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a persuasive rationale

Emphasizes the ability of the explanation to persuade the audience.

a compelling justification

Highlights the strong and undeniable nature of the reason provided.

a plausible account

Focuses on the believability and possibility of the explanation.

a credible interpretation

Stresses the reliability and trustworthiness of the understanding offered.

a sound reason

Indicates that the explanation is based on solid and logical grounds.

a valid argument

Suggests the explanation is well-reasoned and logically defensible.

a definitive answer

Implies that the explanation is conclusive and leaves no room for doubt.

a satisfactory response

Focuses on the explanation meeting the required expectations or needs.

an irrefutable case

Highlights that the explanation cannot be disproven or argued against.

a logical deduction

Emphasizes that the explanation is derived through a process of reasoning.

FAQs

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

You can use "a convincing explanation" to describe a rationale that is believable and well-supported by evidence. For example, "The scientist provided "a convincing explanation" for the experiment's unexpected results".

What are some alternatives to "a convincing explanation"?

Alternatives include "a persuasive rationale", "a compelling justification", or "a plausible account", depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes an explanation "convincing"?

A convincing explanation is typically characterized by its clarity, logical coherence, and strong supporting evidence. It effectively addresses potential counterarguments and leaves little room for doubt.

Is it always appropriate to describe something as "a convincing explanation"?

No, it's important to use this phrase judiciously. Ensure that the explanation genuinely warrants such a description by being both logically sound and well-supported. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility.