a viable explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

"a viable explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an explanation or idea that is realistic and effective. For example, "The scientist offered a viable explanation as to why the experiment had failed."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

In the past, investigators had said only that Mr. bin al-Shibh was seen as an important player who was possibly meant to have been the 20th hijacker on one of the four jets seized on Sept. 11 -- a theory some officials still regard as a viable explanation of his role.

The New York Times

We conclude that an asteroid disruption event is not a viable explanation for the LHB.

Advances in Space Research

Hydrodynamic forces adjacent to the solid surfaces near the column inlet can provide a viable explanation for the hyperexponential shape of RPs.

Geoderma

The theoretical model was shown to provide a viable explanation for the excessive values of the effective thermal conductivity obtained experimentally [1 3].

Nanoscale Research Letters

The large gradient in frictional strength on the trenchward side of the M9 hypocenter offers a viable explanation for the large tsunamigenic slips during the M9 event.

Earth, Planets and Space

Likewise, the constructivist concept of ontological security (i.e. maintaining a stable sense of self) is unable to offer a viable explanation for policy reorientations in Japan.

Asian Journal of German and European Studies

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

I don't think there's any viable explanation".

The New York Times - Arts

I fielded my first question this week: "When are you going back?" Now that I'm no longer single, I have a more viable explanation.

The Guardian - Opinion

A fully viable explanation might be common to other volcanoes where remarkable magnetic field changes during quiescent periods have been reported (e.g., Kanda et al. 2010; Kuchi-no-Erabu-jima Volcano).

Earth, Planets and Space

"I think that's a perfectly viable explanation," he said.

Huffington Post

If information degradation is a more viable explanation than sensory deprivation, given that the cognitive measures obtained in this study via the WAIS III were primarily visual, one might expect a stronger association between visual sensory processing and global cognitive function.

Attention, Perception & Psychophysics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a viable explanation" to introduce a hypothesis or potential solution that is not only possible but also practical and supported by evidence. This enhances the credibility of your analysis.

Common error

Avoid presenting an explanation as "a viable explanation" if there's substantial evidence against it. Ensure the explanation is genuinely plausible and not just a remote possibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a viable explanation" functions as a noun phrase where "viable" modifies "explanation", indicating the explanation is feasible and workable. Ludwig AI shows that the expression is used in contexts where reasons or solutions are being offered.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

21%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a viable explanation" is a commonly used phrase to introduce a reason or solution that is both feasible and well-supported by evidence. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in scientific and news-related contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the explanation you're offering is genuinely plausible and not an overstatement. Alternatives include "a plausible rationale" or "a credible account", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. The phrase maintains a neutral to formal register, suitable for professional, academic, and news settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a plausible rationale

Focuses on the reasonableness and believability of the reason.

a credible account

Emphasizes the trustworthiness and reliability of the given explanation.

a tenable hypothesis

Suggests the explanation is defensible and can be supported by evidence.

a sound interpretation

Highlights the correctness and logical coherence of the explanation.

a defensible argument

Focuses on the ability to support and justify the explanation.

a reasonable justification

Emphasizes the fairness and appropriateness of the explanation.

a workable theory

Indicates the explanation is practical and can be applied effectively.

a realistic assessment

Focuses on the grounded and pragmatic nature of the explanation.

an acceptable answer

Suggests the explanation meets a certain standard or requirement.

a supportable claim

Highlights the ability to back up the explanation with evidence or reasoning.

FAQs

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

You can use "a viable explanation" to introduce a potential reason or solution that is practical and supported by evidence. For example, "The scientist offered "a viable explanation" for the unexpected results".

What are some alternatives to "a viable explanation"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a plausible rationale", "a credible account", or "a tenable hypothesis".

What makes an explanation "viable"?

For an explanation to be considered "viable", it needs to be realistic, feasible, and capable of providing a reasonable understanding of the situation. It should also align with available evidence and logical reasoning.

When is it appropriate to use "a viable explanation" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "a viable explanation" when you are presenting a reason or solution that is not only possible but also practical and well-supported. This phrase suggests that the explanation is worth considering seriously.