an extensive explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an extensive explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a detailed and thorough clarification or description of a topic. Example: "The report includes an extensive explanation of the methodology used in the study."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

The site offers an extensive explanation for its calculations.

The New York Times

There is an extensive explanation of the canning process.

The Guardian - Travel

Wooten said he deeply regretted the Taser incident, offering an extensive explanation.

The Washington Post

Article No. 25668 in the technical area of Apple's Web site (docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=25668) offers an extensive explanation of the company's position on hard-drive optimization and fragmentation.

The New York Times - Tech

The note card provides an extensive explanation including why you are using the Knee Defender, how much (in inches) you are willing to allow the seat to be reclined and to notify you if they need to recline their seat at any point during the flight.

The Economist

For those not familiar with the game, Wikipedia has an extensive explanation.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

In the lecture about nukes, for instance, Professor Muller gives a fairly extensive explanation of how to build an atomic bomb.

The New York Times

But the library has seriously failed visitors by not including a more extensive explanation of the Ricci map beyond a single panel of text; it does not even provide a translation of the Chinese characters punctuating it.

The New York Times - Arts

We realised that some terms used might require a more extensive explanation due to the two-level analysis carried out to look at individual and pack performance.

Nature

For about $478, you receive a more extensive explanation of the findings, along with customized exercise recommendations from the company's scientific advisory board.

The New York Times

A more extensive explanation of AGS and the educational experience to which the participants were exposed can be found in Wiles and Alters ([2011]).

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an extensive explanation", ensure the context justifies the level of detail. Avoid using it for simple concepts that require only brief clarification.

Common error

Avoid using "an extensive explanation" when a simpler term like "a detailed explanation" would suffice. Overusing "extensive" can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an extensive explanation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the type of explanation being provided, emphasizing its thoroughness and detail. Ludwig AI validates this with numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

28%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Academia

9%

Encyclopedias

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an extensive explanation" is a noun phrase used to describe a thorough and detailed clarification or account. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and notes its prevalence across various contexts, including news, science, and formal communication. While generally neutral to formal, it's crucial to use it judiciously, ensuring the context warrants such a detailed explanation. Alternatives like "a detailed account" or "a comprehensive overview" can be used depending on the specific nuances you wish to convey. The phrase is commonly found in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Economist, highlighting its reliability and widespread acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a comprehensive account

Emphasizes completeness and scope in the explanation.

a detailed exposition

Highlights the thoroughness and systematic nature of the explanation.

a thorough clarification

Focuses on removing ambiguity and making something clear.

a complete breakdown

Suggests an analysis that separates a complex topic into simpler parts.

a full account

Implies a detailed and exhaustive report or description.

a lengthy discussion

Indicates that the explanation involves a considerable amount of discourse.

an elaborate discourse

Emphasizes the complexity and artistry of the explanation.

a wide-ranging analysis

Highlights the breadth and scope of the examination.

a far-reaching explanation

Suggests that the explanation has broad implications or consequences.

a profound elucidation

Highlights the depth and insightfulness of the explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "an extensive explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "an extensive explanation" to describe a detailed and thorough account of something. For example, "The manual provides "an extensive explanation" of the software's features".

What are some alternatives to "an extensive explanation"?

Alternatives include "a detailed account", "a comprehensive overview", or "a thorough clarification", depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "an extensive and detailed explanation"?

While not strictly incorrect, "an extensive and detailed explanation" can be somewhat redundant since "extensive" already implies a high level of detail. Consider using just ""an extensive explanation"" or "a detailed explanation" for conciseness.

When is it appropriate to use "an extensive explanation"?

Use "an extensive explanation" when you want to emphasize that a topic is covered in great depth and detail. This is suitable for complex subjects or situations where a thorough understanding is necessary.