a defensible explanation for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a defensible explanation for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a rationale or justification that can be supported or defended logically. Example: "The researcher provided a defensible explanation for the unexpected results in the study, citing external factors that may have influenced the outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, we have to ask whether signaling through the electromagnetic field may provide a defensible explanation of the observed effects.

Cell Communication and Signaling

I am also persuaded that "Inference to Best Explanation" is a valid way to do science, but also encouraged by what I take is the authors' admission that the existence of other defensible explanations for the same "surprising fact" strengthens our (mine and Eric Bapteste's) claim that whatever Darwin meant by the Tree "simile", it could/should now be taken as an hypothesis.

Biology Direct

There is a less defensible explanation too: "Hollywood's value system is not necessarily about growth," says Dan Jansen, who runs the Boston Consulting Group's media practice.

The Economist

WASHINGTON -- When Mitt Romney told a crowd in Ohio last week that he had read a report saying Jeep was "thinking of moving all production to China," there was at least a potentially defensible explanation.

Huffington Post

Yet the facts left no defensible explanation.

The New York Times

He said he could see no "defensible explanation" why the information had not been acted on.

BBC

In the absence of candid and scientifically defensible explanations, a demagogue will prey on the electorate's fears, concerns and misinformation to grab political power.

HuffPost

It's not a perfect argument, but it is at least a defensible position for Brown over the months ahead.

The Guardian - Opinion

For example, it provides a defensible benchmark for comparison of all possible insulin treatment strategies for Type 1 diabetes patients.

Automatica

In other words, OEMs have a defensible rationale for creating a proprietary, vertical structure that generates long-term strategic gains.

Harvard Business Review

Despite the inconvenience to me, I believe this scrutiny is a defensible tactic for picking out potential problem passengers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a defensible explanation for" to introduce a reason or rationale that might be challenged or questioned, signaling that you are prepared to support your reasoning.

Common error

Avoid presenting a mere possibility as "a defensible explanation for" when the evidence is lacking. Be honest about the uncertainty and acknowledge potential weaknesses in the reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a defensible explanation for" functions as an introductory element to a rationale or justification. It indicates that the explanation is not merely a suggestion, but a position that can be supported with evidence or logic. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a defensible explanation for" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a rationale or justification that can be supported with evidence or logic. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable. While the frequency of the phrase is low, it is a clear, concise way to introduce a reason that one believes can be maintained against scrutiny. Its usage spans from professional to neutral registers. When using this phrase, it is essential to ensure that the explanation is indeed logically sound and backed by evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a justifiable reason for

Emphasizes the just or rightful basis for the explanation.

a supportable rationale for

Highlights the evidence or logic that underpins the explanation.

a tenable justification for

Focuses on the ability of the explanation to withstand scrutiny or challenge.

a plausible account for

Stresses the believability and reasonableness of the explanation.

a credible basis for

Underscores the trustworthiness and reliability of the explanation.

a valid ground for

Indicates that the explanation is well-founded and legitimate.

a reasonable cause for

Suggests that the explanation is sensible and logical.

an arguable case for

Highlights the potential for debate and defense of the explanation.

a well-founded excuse for

Implies that the explanation serves to mitigate or justify an action or situation.

a sustainable argument for

Focuses on the long-term viability and defensibility of the explanation.

FAQs

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

Use "a defensible explanation for" to introduce a rationale or justification that can be logically supported. For example, "The researcher provided a defensible explanation for the unexpected results."

What are some alternatives to "a defensible explanation for"?

You can use alternatives such as "a justifiable reason for", "a supportable rationale for", or "a plausible account for depending on the context".

Is it better to say "a defensible explanation for" or "a justifiable explanation for"?

Both "a defensible explanation for" and "a justifiable explanation for" are correct. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Defensible" emphasizes the ability to withstand scrutiny, while "justifiable" emphasizes the rightness or fairness of the explanation.

What does "defensible" mean in the context of "a defensible explanation for"?

In this context, "defensible" means that the explanation is capable of being supported or justified; it can be maintained against attack or challenge.