accounts for

USAGE SUMMARY

"accounts for" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used as a verb phrase meaning "to provide an explanation or reason for (something)". Example sentence: His poor results in the exam accounts for his low grade.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What accounts for this?

The New York Times

What accounts for this disparity?

The New York Times - Food

What accounts for his stature?

The New Yorker

What accounts for the difference?

The New York Times

What accounts for these changes?

The New York Times

What accounts for its integrity?

The New York Times

What accounts for that difference?

The New York Times

What accounts for those gaps?

The New York Times

What accounts for these results?

The New York Times

Nothing fully accounts for it.

The Economist

What accounts for his success?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more specific verbs like "explains", "justifies", or "causes" if you want to add nuance or emphasis to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "accounts for" simply to describe a component of something without implying causation or explanation. For instance, don't say "Marketing accounts for 30% of the budget" when "Marketing comprises 30% of the budget" is more accurate if you are not trying to explain an outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "accounts for" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a transitive verb. It indicates that something provides an explanation, reason, or constitutes a specific portion or amount. As Ludwig AI confirms, it means "to provide an explanation or reason for (something)".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

19%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "accounts for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that serves to explain or constitute a specific portion of something. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage in written English. Predominantly found in news, media, and formal business contexts, it carries a neutral to professional register. To enhance clarity, ensure the subject clearly explains the outcome you are describing. While versatile, it's essential to avoid misusing it as a mere description without implying causation. By understanding its grammatical function and contextual nuances, you can effectively incorporate "accounts for" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explains

This alternative focuses on the act of clarifying or making something understandable, differing slightly in formality.

clarifies

Similar to "explains", but with a greater emphasis on removing ambiguity.

gives a reason for

This phrase emphasizes the provision of a justification or cause, adding a bit more directness.

is the cause of

This option points to direct causation, making it stronger than simply providing an explanation.

is responsible for

This alternative shifts the focus to causality, indicating that something caused the outcome.

provides the rationale for

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the logical basis for something.

constitutes

This term refers to something that comprises a whole, suggesting composition rather than just explanation.

details the reasons behind

Focuses on providing a complete account of the reasons, being more descriptive and thorough.

illuminates

This phrase brings to light the reasons or factors involved, adding a figurative element.

attributes to

This option suggests assigning a cause or characteristic to something, often used in research contexts.

FAQs

How do I use "accounts for" in a sentence?

Use "accounts for" to indicate that something explains, causes, or constitutes a particular outcome or proportion. For instance, "The increase in sales accounts for the company's overall profit."

What can I say instead of "accounts for"?

You can use alternatives like "explains", "is responsible for", or "constitutes" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "accounts for" or "is accounted for"?

"Accounts for" indicates that something is the explanation or cause, while "is accounted for" means something has been explained or considered. For example, "The data accounts for the trend" versus "The trend is accounted for by the data."

What's the difference between "accounts for" and "is due to"?

"Accounts for" suggests a broader explanation or composition, while "is due to" directly implies causation. Use "accounts for" when something provides an explanation or a significant portion, and "is due to" when identifying a direct cause. You can say "is due to" when explaining an element or factor.