a thoughtful explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

"a thoughtful explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a thorough or detailed explanation that was provided thoughtfully or with care. For example: "The professor gave a thoughtful explanation of the new material, making sure everyone had a thorough understanding of the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

He offers a thoughtful explanation of why some players are tempted to take performance-enhancing substances, but he doesn't dish dirt and he doesn't paint vivid portraits.

The New York Times - Books

That's a genuine "I don't understand", not a passive-aggressive one; and if any commenters want to essay a thoughtful explanation, I'll certainly read it carefully and try to understand.

The Economist

This even-handed documentary provides a thoughtful explanation as to why so many Americans seem willing to accept atrocities such as last year's massacre in Newtown, Connecticut as part of a price worth paying for the second amendment.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Following the identification of certain variables, such as theories underpinning nursing practice, clinical processes, and education, each team member researched identified variables of the conceptual diagram, wrote a thoughtful explanation of the components, and frequently met with the others to discuss each element of the model and the relationships among the variables.

Journal of Professional Nursing

In my talk, I aimed to lay out a thoughtful explanation of what it means to do animal research ethically and responsibly.

Duke University

A thoughtful explanation on his part, even if you don't agree with it, is a sign of respect.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The public should know about these mailings, and Mr. Paladino should give a full, thoughtful explanation of why he trafficked in such filth.

The New York Times

If you want to learn more about this announcement, the founders posted a very thoughtful explanation for their closure on their blog and the DailyDot has an excellent article on their wonderful work here.

University of California, Berkeley

Ben Summerskill, Stonewall chief executive, described the announcement as an "elegant, dignified, thoughtful explanation of what's going on in the life of a gay teenager".

The Guardian - Sport

(Contract Position) The Tour Guide must be able to give a thoughtful, detailed explanation of the origins of Grace Farms, its architectural details and design process, and its permanent art installations.

Yale University

Opting for an "exclusive" typically reduces broad coverage but is helpful if your business is complex and requires thoughtful explanation, or if you desire a deeper "signature story" which explains your business in detail and might aid in sales and hiring efforts.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a thoughtful explanation", ensure the context showcases genuine reflection and depth. Avoid using it for simple or obvious explanations.

Common error

Don't use "a thoughtful explanation" when a simpler term like "explanation" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound pretentious or insincere. Reserve it for situations where considerable thought and analysis have clearly gone into the explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a thoughtful explanation" functions as a noun phrase, where "thoughtful" is an adjective modifying the noun "explanation". It describes the quality of the explanation, emphasizing the care and consideration involved. Ludwig shows it describing why Americans seem willing to accept atrocities.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

31%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a thoughtful explanation" is a phrase used to describe an explanation that is characterized by careful consideration, depth, and insight. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and useful in written English. While it appears most often in news and academic contexts, its meaning and implications remain consistent. It is important to use this phrase judiciously, reserving it for situations where the explanation truly reflects significant thought and analysis. Alternatives such as "a considered explanation" or "a well-reasoned explanation" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a considered explanation

Emphasizes the careful deliberation involved in formulating the explanation.

a well-reasoned explanation

Highlights the logical structure and reasoning behind the explanation.

a detailed and thoughtful account

Adds detail to the explanation, suggesting a thoroughness and consideration.

a comprehensive explanation

Focuses on the completeness and breadth of the explanation.

an insightful explanation

Highlights the depth of understanding and perception conveyed by the explanation.

an in-depth explanation

Focuses on how thoroughly the explanation explores its subject matter.

a perceptive explanation

Emphasizes the understanding and sensitivity shown in the explanation.

a reflective explanation

Highlights the introspective nature of the explanation.

a substantiated explanation

Focuses on how the explanation is supported by factual data and reliable evidence.

a profound explanation

Emphasizes the depth and significance of the explanation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a thoughtful explanation" to describe an explanation that demonstrates careful consideration and depth of understanding. For example: "The professor provided "a thoughtful explanation" of the theory, which helped the students grasp its nuances."

What are some alternatives to "a thoughtful explanation"?

Some alternatives include "a well-reasoned explanation", "a considered explanation", or "a detailed account", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

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

It's best to use "a thoughtful explanation" when the explanation provided is not only clear but also demonstrates deep thinking, careful analysis, and a thorough understanding of the subject matter. It's appropriate when the explanation reflects significant intellectual effort.

What is the difference between "a simple explanation" and "a thoughtful explanation"?

"A simple explanation" conveys basic facts or understanding in an easily digestible way. In contrast, "a thoughtful explanation" implies a deeper dive, demonstrating insight and careful consideration beyond just the surface level. The latter suggests that considerable thought and analysis have gone into the provided details.