a simpler explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simpler explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to request or provide a more straightforward or easy-to-understand version of a complex idea or concept. Example: "Can you provide a simpler explanation of the theory so that everyone can understand it better?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

But there's a simpler explanation.

The New York Times - Magazine

But there was a simpler explanation.

The Economist

New research proposes a simpler explanation.

The New York Times - Science

There may be a simpler explanation: demography.

The Economist

Browne had a simpler explanation, though.

The New Yorker

Mr. Cherry had a simpler explanation.

The New York Times

Stradlin, however, offered a simpler explanation.

The Guardian - Music

Ms. Rakowski offered a simpler explanation.

The New York Times

And there may be a simpler explanation too.

The New York Times - Magazine

Thaler, in a telephone interview, offered a simpler explanation.

The New York Times - Sports

But the researchers say there is a simpler explanation.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a simpler explanation" to bridge understanding between experts and non-experts. This enhances communication and avoids alienating audiences.

Common error

Avoid using "a simpler explanation" as an excuse to ignore crucial nuances or complexities. While clarity is important, accuracy should never be sacrificed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simpler explanation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It introduces a more straightforward account of something, often in contrast to a more complex one. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a simpler explanation" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a more straightforward account, especially when contrasting it with a more complex one. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and applicable in various contexts. Its primary function is to clarify complex information, making it more accessible and easier to understand. While the phrase is primarily used in news and media, it also appears in scientific and encyclopedic contexts, maintaining a mostly neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure that the simplification does not sacrifice accuracy and that nuances are still appropriately addressed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a more straightforward reason

Focuses on directness and clarity in the reason provided, emphasizing ease of understanding.

a less complicated rationale

Highlights the reduced complexity of the given rationale, suggesting an easier-to-follow logic.

an easier-to-understand account

Emphasizes the comprehensibility of the explanation, making it accessible to a broader audience.

a more accessible justification

Stresses the approachability and clarity of the justification, implying a lack of technical jargon.

a plain explanation

Highlights the straightforward and uncomplicated nature of the explanation.

a basic reason

Suggests a fundamental and uncomplicated reason, avoiding unnecessary details.

a clear account

Indicates that the account is free from ambiguity and easy to grasp.

a simplified rationale

Implies that the original rationale has been made less complex for better understanding.

a less technical reason

Specifies that the reason avoids specialized or technical language, making it more accessible.

a more direct cause

Highlights the immediate and uncomplicated nature of the cause, avoiding indirect factors.

FAQs

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

You can use "a simpler explanation" to introduce a more straightforward reason or account for something, for example: "While the initial theory was complex, I have "a simpler explanation" for the phenomenon."

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

"A simple explanation" refers to an explanation that is inherently uncomplicated. "A simpler explanation" implies that there's a more complex explanation available, and you are offering a less complex alternative.

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

You can use alternatives like "a more straightforward reason", "a less complicated rationale", or "an easier-to-understand account" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to offer "a simpler explanation"?

It's appropriate to offer ""a simpler explanation"" when the original explanation is too complex for the intended audience, or when you want to provide a more direct and easily understandable account of something.