acceptable explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

"acceptable explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to an explanation that considers all of the relevant information and is likely to be accepted or agreed upon. For example, "He provided an acceptable explanation for why he needed to take a day off of work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This hypothesis – that there is no purpose for the hiccup – should only be accepted in the absence of an acceptable explanation for its evolutionary persistence.

BioEssays

So they settle on the first acceptable explanation.

Harvard Business Review

But watchdogs say that is not an acceptable explanation.

The New York Times

RIFF AUTONOMY IS ASKED Most of Former French Conditions Called Acceptable -- Explanation of Others Wanted.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, many philosophers doubt whether an acceptable explanation of facts and correspondence can be given.

Britannica

The high abiotic reactivity has been the most acceptable explanation for the apparently absence of organic matter in the regolith.

Advances in Space Research

But Professor Case of Chicago said she had a hard time imagining an acceptable explanation for Augusta National's refusal to admit a female member.

The New York Times

For a more acceptable explanation of the sudden increase in size and strength of some major leaguers, remember the first "Superman" movie.

The New York Times

"The respondent fired four shots through the door and never offered an acceptable explanation for doing so," Nel said, adding that the sentence was "shockingly lenient".

The Guardian

When Van Gundy spoke to him, Starks apparently offered no apology or acceptable explanation for his late arrival, but the coach played him anyway.

The New York Times - Sports

For a besieged Saudi regime, the most acceptable explanation for the latest attacks is that they stem from anger over the Iraq war.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "acceptable explanation", ensure that the context provides enough information for the explanation to be understood and evaluated for its acceptability. For instance, specify who needs to find the explanation acceptable and why.

Common error

Avoid using "acceptable explanation" without providing any details about what makes an explanation acceptable in that specific context. What criteria must the explanation meet?

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acceptable explanation" functions as a noun phrase, where "acceptable" modifies the noun "explanation". It is used to describe an explanation that meets certain standards or criteria, making it satisfactory or satisfactory to a specific person or group. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

28%

Science

27%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

12%

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "acceptable explanation" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe an explanation that meets certain standards or criteria. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's used correctly in various contexts, primarily in news, science, and academic writing. While generally neutral in tone, its formality can shift based on the surrounding language. When using "acceptable explanation", ensure that the context clearly defines what makes the explanation 'acceptable' to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "plausible explanation" or "satisfactory explanation" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Understanding these nuances enhances clarity and precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plausible explanation

Focuses on the believability and likelihood of the explanation.

satisfactory explanation

Emphasizes that the explanation meets a certain standard or requirement.

reasonable explanation

Highlights the logical and rational nature of the explanation.

valid justification

Replaces 'explanation' with 'justification', implying a defense or support for an action or decision.

convincing account

Suggests the explanation is persuasive and able to change someone's mind.

credible rationale

Implies that the explanation is believable and based on sound reasoning.

tenable interpretation

Refers to an interpretation that can be defended or maintained.

legitimate reason

Substitutes 'explanation' with 'reason', suggesting a lawful or justifiable cause.

defensible position

Emphasizes that the explanation can be supported and defended against criticism.

supportable claim

Focuses on the explanation as a statement that can be backed up with evidence.

FAQs

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

You can use "acceptable explanation" when you need to describe a reason or justification that meets certain criteria or standards. For example, "The company provided an "acceptable explanation" for the delay in shipment".

What's a more formal alternative to "acceptable explanation"?

For more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "valid justification", "credible rationale", or "tenable interpretation".

What are common situations where an "acceptable explanation" is needed?

An "acceptable explanation" is often required in situations involving errors, delays, policy violations, or any scenario where accountability and understanding are important. For example, students might need to provide an "acceptable explanation" for missing a deadline.

How does "acceptable explanation" differ from "plausible explanation"?

"Acceptable explanation" indicates that the explanation meets certain standards or requirements, while "plausible explanation" suggests that the explanation is believable or likely, even if it isn't necessarily perfect.