an immediate explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an immediate explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a prompt or urgent need for clarification or understanding about a situation or topic. Example: "After the incident, the team requested an immediate explanation from the management regarding the decision made."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

A Texas department of public safety spokesman told the Guardian he did not have an immediate explanation as to why.

The Guardian

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Hua Chunying, called the shooting "brutal" and said China had requested an immediate explanation.

The New York Times

In late October, Red Cross monitors were so alarmed by the number of nude detainees that they halted their visit and demanded an immediate explanation.

The New York Times

There was nothing that might provide an immediate explanation of what the police said was the killing of her 19-month-old son.

The New York Times

Sinn Fein said it was seeking an immediate explanation for the note, which the BBC apologised for and described as "insensitive and extremely naïve".

Independent

In a visit to the Abu Ghraib prison last October, Red Cross inspectors were so unsettled by what they found that they broke off their visit and demanded an immediate explanation from the military prison authorities.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Nor was there any immediate explanation forthcoming as to why we had been singled out for a cut.

The Guardian

Neither American nor Iraqi government officials had any immediate explanation as to how the bombs were smuggled inside.

The New York Times

But on Sunday night, for the second time in less than a year, hundreds of passengers appeared to have perished mid-flight without any immediate explanation.

The Guardian

According to behavioral economists, the low savings rate has a more immediate explanation: it proves — yet again — that people have trouble acting in their own best interests.

The New Yorker

A more immediate explanation is that the impact of HS varied with severity.

BMC Pulmonary Medicine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an immediate explanation" when you need to convey the urgency and necessity of a prompt clarification or justification. It often implies a situation where a delay in providing an explanation is unacceptable or would have negative consequences.

Common error

Avoid using "an immediate explanation" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or demanding. Opt for simpler phrases like "explain now" or "tell me why right away" in less formal scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an immediate explanation" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It serves to identify something required or requested – a prompt and timely clarification or justification. Ludwig AI confirms that this usage aligns with standard English grammar.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an immediate explanation" is a noun phrase used to express the urgent need for clarification or justification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it adheres to standard English grammar and is frequently found in news and scientific contexts. While grammatically correct, consider the formality of the situation; simpler alternatives may be more appropriate in casual settings. The phrase is well-supported by authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, suggesting its widespread acceptance in formal discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prompt clarification

Emphasizes the speed and clarity of the explanation.

an instant account

Highlights the immediacy and the detailed nature of the explanation.

a quick rationale

Focuses on the reasoning provided in a timely manner.

an urgent justification

Stresses the critical need for explaining or defending an action.

a timely exposition

Indicates the explanation is provided at the appropriate or necessary moment.

a speedy elucidation

Emphasizes making something clear quickly.

an express interpretation

Highlights a fast delivery of an understanding or meaning.

a forthwith detailing

Stresses that the information is to be provided immediately.

a rapid disclosure

Suggests quick releasing of information.

a present accounting

Focuses on providing an explanation at this very moment.

FAQs

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

You can use "an immediate explanation" to express the urgent need for clarification. For instance, "The board demanded "an immediate explanation" for the sudden drop in profits".

What's a less formal alternative to "an immediate explanation"?

Less formal alternatives include phrases like "a quick explanation" or "tell me why now". The choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

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

It's appropriate in situations where there is a pressing need for understanding something, often in professional or formal settings where accountability is important. It conveys urgency and importance.

What's the difference between ""an immediate explanation"" and "a satisfactory explanation"?

"An immediate explanation" refers to the timing of the explanation, while "a satisfactory explanation" refers to the quality or completeness of the explanation. You might need an immediate explanation that is also satisfactory.