a possible explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a possible explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are suggesting something that could explain a particular event or situation. For example: "The disruption to the power grid could be due to a malfunctioning transformer, a possible explanation for the blackout."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

DiVincenzo offered a possible explanation.

The New Yorker

It's a possible explanation.

Yale University

"We have found a possible explanation.

Independent

But second thoughts provide a possible explanation.

The Economist

Well, that's a possible explanation.

Yale University

A possible explanation for this is discussed.

Studies in Surface Science and Catalysis

Carrie Meek Gallagher, the report's director, had a possible explanation.

The New York Times

But her friend, Margit Toth, offered a possible explanation.

The New York Times

A possible explanation for this convergence has now been found.

Nature

A possible explanation for the conundrum of the 'French paradox'?

Nature

A possible explanation for the phenomena observed is proposed.

Hydrometallurgy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a possible explanation" when you want to introduce a suggestion that accounts for certain facts or circumstances, but avoid presenting it as a definitive or fully proven answer.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a possible explanation" as a definitive conclusion. Instead, frame it as a suggestion or hypothesis that requires further investigation. Qualify your statement with phrases like "might be", "could be", or "suggests that" to maintain appropriate nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a possible explanation" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a potential reason or account for a particular phenomenon or situation. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a possible explanation" serves as a versatile phrase used to introduce a potential reason or hypothesis. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used across various fields. It's frequently found in scientific and news contexts, suggesting it's appropriate for formal and objective communication. When using the phrase, remember to frame it as a suggestion rather than a definitive conclusion, maintaining nuance and encouraging further investigation. Alternatives like "a potential reason" or "a likely cause" can be used depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a possible cause

A simple and direct alternative, focusing on causation.

one possible reason

Highlights that it's just one of many potential reasons.

a potential reason

Focuses on the aspect of reasoning or cause.

a suggested explanation

Emphasizes that the explanation is being put forward for consideration.

a likely cause

Emphasizes the probability of the cause being accurate.

a tentative explanation

Indicates the explanation is not definitive or fully confirmed.

a plausible rationale

Highlights the logic and reasoning behind the explanation.

a conceivable cause

Stresses the possibility of the cause occurring or being true.

a credible theory

Suggests that the explanation is supported by some evidence and is believable.

a feasible hypothesis

Presents the explanation as a testable idea or proposition.

FAQs

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

You can use "a possible explanation" to introduce a potential reason for something. For example: "The increase in sales could be due to the new marketing campaign; that's "a possible explanation"."

What are some alternatives to "a possible explanation"?

Some alternatives include "a potential reason", "a likely cause", or "a plausible rationale". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of certainty you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a possible explanation" or "the possible explanation"?

"A possible explanation" suggests one of several potential explanations, while "the possible explanation" implies it is the only or most likely explanation. Choose the phrasing that accurately reflects the situation.

When should I use "a possible explanation" instead of "a confirmed explanation"?

Use "a possible explanation" when you are suggesting a reason that hasn't been fully verified. If the reason is proven, use "a confirmed explanation" or simply "the explanation".