a satisfactory explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a satisfactory explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing whether an explanation meets the necessary criteria or standards for clarity and completeness. Example: "After reviewing the report, I found that the author provided a satisfactory explanation for the project's outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But that's not a satisfactory explanation.

The Economist

Now we hope the government can give us a satisfactory explanation and justice".

The Guardian

Other than this bit of delusion, a satisfactory explanation for Whitacre's behavior is never offered.

The New York Times - Books

There has never been a satisfactory explanation for the indifference over Rwanda.

The Guardian - Opinion

Apparently, the fact that the majority of voters preferred Barack Obama was not a satisfactory explanation.

The New Yorker

But that's hardly a satisfactory explanation in plural nation which has seen successive waves of immigration.

The Guardian - Opinion

In recent talks, however, North Korea failed to give American officials a satisfactory explanation about its uranium enrichment program.

The New York Times

In Boston, Dr. Lieber was intrigued by the lack of a satisfactory explanation of how alcohol caused liver disease.

The New York Times

The UN refugee agency requested information from Ukraine about him but "has not received a satisfactory explanation", according to Andrysek.

The Guardian

"I know there was a satisfactory explanation, and we did look into it," one person told me.

The New York Times

It is an open question whether Ayer's account provides a satisfactory explanation of the intuitive notion of free will.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a satisfactory explanation", ensure the context clearly defines what criteria constitute 'satisfactory'. Be specific about the expectations the explanation should meet.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that an explanation is "a satisfactory explanation" without detailing why it meets the required standards. Provide concrete reasons or evidence to support your assessment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a satisfactory explanation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective 'satisfactory' modifies the noun 'explanation'. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is widely found in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a satisfactory explanation" is a commonly used phrase that serves to evaluate whether an explanation meets certain criteria. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely employed across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. To use the phrase effectively, ensure you clearly define what constitutes 'satisfactory' in the given context and avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "an adequate justification" or "a convincing rationale" to add nuance. By following these guidelines, you can confidently and precisely use "a satisfactory explanation" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an adequate justification

This alternative emphasizes the sufficiency of the reason or evidence provided.

a convincing rationale

This highlights the persuasive nature of the reasoning behind the explanation.

a plausible account

This suggests the explanation is believable and likely to be true.

an acceptable clarification

This focuses on making something clearer and more understandable to a degree that is allowable.

a sufficient reason

This underscores the adequacy of the cause or motive given.

a valid interpretation

This highlights the correctness and legitimacy of the understanding presented.

a sound defense

This implies the explanation serves as a strong and well-reasoned justification.

a credible alibi

This relates to offering a believable account of one's whereabouts, especially in legal contexts.

a reasonable answer

This focuses on the logical and sensible quality of the response.

a good account

This suggests the explanation is thorough, detailed, and of high quality.

FAQs

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

You can use "a satisfactory explanation" to describe an explanation that meets certain requirements or standards. For example, "The company provided "a satisfactory explanation" for the delay in shipment".

What are some alternatives to saying "a satisfactory explanation"?

You can use alternatives such as "an adequate justification", "a convincing rationale", or "a plausible account" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "satisfactory explanation" or "sufficient explanation"?

Both "satisfactory explanation" and "sufficient explanation" are acceptable. "Satisfactory" implies meeting a certain standard, while "sufficient" suggests being adequate for a purpose. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is an explanation considered "a satisfactory explanation"?

An explanation is considered "a satisfactory explanation" when it adequately addresses the question or issue, meets the required level of detail and clarity, and is supported by credible evidence or reasoning.