a good explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a good explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an explanation that is clear, informative, and helpful. Example: "The teacher provided a good explanation of the complex topic, making it easier for the students to understand."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(Here's a good explanation of why).

The New Yorker

The Crankyflier blog has a good explanation.

The Economist

Questions: Does this seem a good explanation?

Princeton University

We don't have a good explanation why".

The New York Times

I don't think it's a good explanation.

The Guardian - Sport

Types of lasers - a good explanation and pictures; from SciMedia.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

For a good explanation of this, check out this site.

Cornell University

"I never read a good explanation for this finding.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

As ever, FT Alphaville has a good explanation.

The Guardian - Business

Is "ghosts" a good explanation for this one?

The New Yorker

Kheir's cheese counter offers a good explanation for their popularity.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a good explanation", ensure the explanation is tailored to the audience's understanding level. Providing too much detail or using overly complex language can negate the 'good' quality.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on the phrase "a good explanation" without indicating what makes the explanation 'good'. Instead, specify the qualities that make it effective, such as "a clear", "concise", or "thorough explanation."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a good explanation" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "good" modifies the noun "explanation". It acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, referring to the quality of the explanation itself. Ludwig examples confirm its usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a good explanation" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe an explanation that is clear, effective, and satisfactory. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various domains like news, academia, and science, indicating its versatility and general acceptance. While the phrase itself is straightforward, ensuring the explanation it describes truly embodies 'good' qualities – clarity, accuracy, and relevance – is crucial. Alternatives such as "a clear explanation" or "a convincing explanation" can provide nuance depending on the specific context. Avoid overuse without context, and specify the characteristics that make the explanation effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a satisfactory explanation

Replaces "good" with "satisfactory", emphasizing the adequacy of the explanation.

a convincing explanation

Substitutes "good" with "convincing", highlighting the persuasive power of the explanation.

a plausible explanation

Uses "plausible" instead of "good", focusing on the believability of the explanation.

a sound explanation

Replaces "good" with "sound", suggesting the explanation is well-reasoned and logical.

a valid justification

Replaces "explanation" with "justification", shifting the focus to defending an action or decision.

a reasonable account

Substitutes "explanation" with "account", offering a description or narrative of events.

a clear rationale

Uses "clear rationale" instead of "good explanation", emphasizing the clarity and logical basis.

a compelling reason

Replaces "explanation" with "reason", focusing on the motive or cause.

an adequate interpretation

Substitutes "explanation" with "interpretation", highlighting the understanding or meaning assigned.

a helpful clarification

Replaces "explanation" with "clarification", focusing on making something easier to understand.

FAQs

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

You can use "a good explanation" to describe something that clarifies a concept or situation. For example, "The professor gave "a good explanation" of quantum physics" or "I need "a good explanation" for why the project is late".

What are some alternatives to "a good explanation"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a clear explanation", "a convincing explanation", or "a satisfactory explanation".

When is it appropriate to use "a good explanation" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "a good explanation" in various contexts, from academic papers and news articles to casual conversations, whenever you need to refer to an explanation that effectively clarifies something. However, ensure the explanation actually meets the criteria of being 'good' by being clear, accurate, and relevant.

What makes an explanation "good"?

A "good" explanation is typically clear, concise, and comprehensive. It addresses the key points, avoids jargon, and is tailored to the audience's level of understanding. It should also be accurate and supported by evidence where necessary.