a simple explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify a concept or provide an easy-to-understand description of something. Example: "To help you understand the process better, let me give you a simple explanation of how it works."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"There's a simple explanation.

The New York Times

Maybe there's a simple explanation.

The New Yorker

Sam has a simple explanation.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Catsimatidis, though, had a simple explanation.

The New York Times

His mother offered a simple explanation.

The New York Times

But, again, there was a simple explanation.

The New Yorker

The authors have a simple explanation -- lobbying.

The New York Times

I'm sure there's a simple explanation".

The Guardian - Books

Maybe, however, there was a simple explanation.

The New York Times - Sports

There must be a simple explanation.

The Guardian - Sport

It was such a simple explanation.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a simple explanation" when you want to provide an easy-to-understand account of something, especially when addressing a general audience or simplifying a complex topic.

Common error

Avoid using "a simple explanation" when a more nuanced or detailed explanation is necessary. Ensure the simplification doesn't sacrifice accuracy or mislead the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple explanation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "offer a simple explanation") or following a linking verb (e.g., "there is a simple explanation"). As shown by Ludwig, it indicates the act of providing a straightforward account.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a simple explanation" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce an easy-to-understand account of something. As highlighted by Ludwig, it serves to clarify complex topics across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific domains. While its neutral tone makes it versatile, it's essential to ensure that the simplification doesn't compromise accuracy. Alternatives such as "an easy explanation" or "a straightforward explanation" can be used for slight variations in emphasis. Ludwig's analysis confirms its widespread applicability and provides valuable context for effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an easy explanation

Replaces "simple" with "easy", emphasizing the lack of difficulty in understanding.

a straightforward explanation

Substitutes "simple" with "straightforward", highlighting the directness and clarity of the explanation.

a clear explanation

Replaces "simple" with "clear", focusing on the absence of ambiguity.

an uncomplicated explanation

Uses "uncomplicated" instead of "simple", emphasizing the lack of complexity.

a basic explanation

Emphasizes the fundamental nature of the explanation, suitable for beginners.

an elementary explanation

Similar to “basic”, but may imply even more simplification for a very novice audience.

a plain explanation

Conveys the idea that the explanation is without unnecessary embellishment or complexity.

a layperson's explanation

Implies the explanation is tailored for someone without specialized knowledge.

a simplified account

Shifts from "explanation" to "account", suggesting a summary or retelling that has been made easier to grasp.

a concise explanation

Focuses on the brevity of the explanation, emphasizing its directness and lack of unnecessary detail.

FAQs

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

You can use "a simple explanation" to introduce a straightforward account of something. For example, "The teacher offered "a simple explanation" of the concept to help the students understand it better".

What can I say instead of "a simple explanation"?

You can use alternatives like "an easy explanation", "a straightforward explanation", or "a clear explanation" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a simple explanation"?

It is appropriate to use "a simple explanation" when you want to convey information in an easily understandable manner, particularly when the topic is complex or the audience is not familiar with the subject matter.

What's the difference between "a simple explanation" and "a detailed explanation"?

"A simple explanation" provides a basic understanding, while "a detailed explanation" offers a comprehensive and thorough account. Choose the option that best suits the audience's needs and the complexity of the topic.