a first explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a first explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing an initial or preliminary explanation of a topic or concept. Example: "In this report, I will provide a first explanation of the underlying principles of quantum mechanics."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

The aim of this paper is to propose a first explanation of this particular wear with the help of finite element simulations and experimental observations.

Wear

A first explanation is the typical very high CNR values of DSL copper wires.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

A first explanation for the lack of impact is that the various tests we employed did not reveal any new information about the employability of graduates.

IZA Journal of Labor Economics

A first explanation is that richer people may already be taking precautions against air pollution and, therefore, be less willing to contribute to a public good.

Latin American Economic Review

A first explanation for this is that as the number of users in the local market increases, the number of SIS would consequently have to increase.

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

A first explanation refers to the assumption that, to begin with, entry-level workers might have jobs for which they are overeducated and later on move to jobs that better match their educational attainment.

IZA Journal of Migration

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

A third explanation is arrogance.

Harvard Business Review

A second explanation is the old political-bureaucratic imperative.

The New York Times

Still a third explanation offered is Mrs. Kumaratunga's character.

The New York Times

A second explanation is more relevant to the work onstage.

The New York Times - Arts

A second explanation is that Islam bans usury.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting multiple explanations, use "a first explanation" to signal the start of a series, guiding the reader through your reasoning step by step.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a first explanation" as the only explanation when there are known complexities or alternative viewpoints. Acknowledge potential limitations or other perspectives to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a first explanation" serves as an introductory device. It signals the beginning of an explanation, often implying that more explanations will follow. This introductory function is supported by Ludwig AI's analysis, which indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

68%

News & Media

14%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a first explanation" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to introduce an initial understanding or reason. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely applicable across various domains, particularly in science and news media. While offering alternative phrases like "an initial explanation" or "a preliminary explanation" can add variety, it's crucial to avoid oversimplification and acknowledge potential complexities when presenting this initial viewpoint. Whether you're writing a scientific paper, a news article, or a business report, "a first explanation" can effectively set the stage for further discussion and analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial explanation

Replaces "first" with "initial", emphasizing the beginning nature of the explanation.

a preliminary explanation

Substitutes "first" with "preliminary", suggesting the explanation is subject to later revisions.

an introductory explanation

Replaces "first" with "introductory", focusing on the role of the explanation as an introduction.

a primary explanation

Emphasizes the importance or priority of this explanation over others.

one possible explanation

Highlights that there may be other explanations, and this is just one of them.

a potential explanation

Emphasizes the hypothetical nature of the explanation.

a tentative explanation

Indicates the explanation is provisional and not yet fully confirmed.

a starting explanation

Focuses on the explanation as a point of departure for further inquiry.

a basic explanation

Suggests the explanation is simplified and covers only the fundamental aspects.

a working explanation

Implies the explanation is being used as a basis for further work or investigation.

FAQs

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

Use "a first explanation" to introduce an initial or preliminary reason or understanding of a topic. For example, "A first explanation for this phenomenon might be due to atmospheric conditions."

What's a good alternative to "a first explanation"?

You can use alternatives such as "an initial explanation", "a preliminary explanation", or "one possible explanation" depending on the context.

Is it necessary to provide additional explanations after giving "a first explanation"?

While not always required, following up with additional explanations after "a first explanation" can provide a more comprehensive understanding and demonstrate a more thorough analysis.

What's the difference between "a first explanation" and "the main explanation"?

"A first explanation" introduces an initial point, whereas "the main explanation" suggests the most significant or primary reason. The former implies that more explanations may follow, while the latter indicates a central or dominant explanation.