a useful explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a useful explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an explanation that provides helpful information or clarity on a subject. Example: "The teacher provided a useful explanation of the complex theory, making it easier for the students to understand."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

A useful explanation of how these can be used to identify suitable administered activities and acquisition times is given by Accorsi et al. [12].

EJNMMI Research

His is a useful explanation that I don't recall from my college schooling many years ago.

The New York Times

"The engine uses both forward and deferred techniques," says technical director Richard Parr, referring to the different ways in which light effects are calculated on a 3D object (there's a useful explanation of both techniques here).

The Guardian - Tech

It's a useful explanation for his work as a whole: a particular song or performance arrests him, and as his writing presses hard against the object of fascination, the work opens up to reveal hidden depths.

The Guardian - Books

https://t.co/ueKM7gBbXd pic.Toitter.com/NlmA9aIALN To play the new level, which Romero has kindly released for free, you'll need a PC copy of Doom and a familiarity with running third-party maps - a useful explanation of how to run the new map is available on Mashable.

Independent

The signal contrast between h1 and h6 clearly indicates an interesting activity change and the structural transition from h1 to h6 provides a useful explanation.

Journal of Cheminformatics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Interestingly, without any useful explanation, the report also notes that the Bureau of Prisons did not participate in the survey, despite researchers' interview requests.

Huffington Post

Scientific theories can be challenged and overthrown, but it takes a preponderance of evidence, a lot of research, and an alternative theory that is a more compelling and useful explanation of how the world actually works.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Express your opinion about whether the article was a clear, thorough, and useful explanation of the subject.

WikiHow

More useful explanation for not using the aqueous extract can be ascribed to the presence of enzyme polyphenol oxidase, which degrades polyphenols in water extracts, whereas in methanol they are inactive.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

If the patient feared serious disease, normal radiologic findings might later reduce the fear, and degenerative findings might provide a useful symptom explanation: Wear and tear is, in a way, quite nice to have.

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a useful explanation", ensure that the explanation actually provides practical help or clarity to the reader. Be specific about what makes the explanation useful.

Common error

Avoid labeling an explanation as "a useful explanation" if it is overly complex, jargon-filled, or fails to provide genuine insight or clarity. Ensure the explanation is tailored to the audience's level of understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a useful explanation" functions as a noun phrase, where "useful" is an adjective modifying the noun "explanation". It typically serves to describe the quality or nature of the explanation being provided, indicating that it offers practical help or clarity. Ludwig confirms the correct use of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a useful explanation" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to describe explanations that provide clarity or practical help. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly found in science, news media, and academic contexts, showcasing its broad applicability. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the explanation truly offers value and is tailored to the audience's understanding. Consider alternatives like "a helpful explanation" or "an informative explanation" to fine-tune the emphasis. By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate the value of your explanations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a helpful explanation

Replaces "useful" with "helpful", emphasizing the assistance provided by the explanation.

a clarifying explanation

Emphasizes the role of the explanation in making something clearer.

an informative explanation

Focuses on the amount of information conveyed by the explanation.

a valuable explanation

Highlights the worth or importance of the explanation.

an illuminating explanation

Stresses that the explanation sheds light on a subject.

a beneficial explanation

Stresses the positive effects or advantages of the explanation.

an insightful explanation

Emphasizes the depth and understanding provided by the explanation.

a practical explanation

Highlights that the explanation is applicable and effective.

a constructive explanation

Focuses on how the explanation builds understanding.

a revealing explanation

Highlights that the explanation uncovers something previously unknown.

FAQs

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

You can use "a useful explanation" to describe something that clarifies a topic or process. For example, "The professor provided "a useful explanation" of quantum physics."

What are some alternatives to "a useful explanation"?

Some alternatives include "a helpful explanation", "an informative explanation", or "a valuable explanation". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a useful explanation"?

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize that an explanation is not only accurate but also provides practical help or clarity. If the explanation simply conveys information without necessarily making it easier to understand, other terms might be more suitable.

How do I ensure my explanation is actually "a useful explanation"?

Focus on clarity, relevance, and practical application. Use examples, avoid jargon, and tailor the explanation to your audience's level of knowledge. Get feedback to confirm it's genuinely helpful.