are used to explain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are used to explain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the purpose or function of something, particularly in academic or instructional contexts. Example: "Graphs and charts are used to explain complex data in a more understandable way."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Typically visualizations are used to explain portentous economic or political changes, but they can also entertain us.

The New York Times - Arts

Disorientation and cognitive loading theories are used to explain observations.

Computers in Human Behavior

All are used to explain the apparently surprising popularity of these books.

The New York Times - Books

Originally, brand names served to distinguish one product from another; now, they are used to explain our actions.

The New York Times - Magazine

Scaling argument and physical reasoning are used to explain the behaviour of these lattices.

Mechanics of Materials

The scanning electron microscope results are used to explain the microscopic mechanism of these parameters above.

Applied Thermal Engineering

Calculated binary and multicomponent phase diagrams are used to explain the phenomena observed experimentally for HEAs.

Calphad

Urban land development and redevelopment are used to explain the spatial pattern of urban functions.

Habitat International

Some examples are used to explain the use of the system.

Computers and Electronics in Agriculture

Characteristics of the contract are used to explain whether or not the contract was ultimately renegotiated.

Journal of Environmental Economics and Management

Scaling arguments are used to explain the initial increase in wave amplitudes.

Chemical Engineering Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are used to explain", ensure that the subject performing the explaining is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "These results are used to explain...", specify: "Researchers used these results to explain...".

Common error

While grammatically correct, overuse of passive constructions like "are used to explain" can make your writing sound less direct. Consider active voice alternatives when appropriate, such as "These findings explain..." for a more concise and impactful sentence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are used to explain" functions as a purpose connector, indicating the reason or intent behind an action or observation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and serves to introduce a clarification or interpretation of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are used to explain" is a versatile tool for introducing explanations and interpretations across various domains. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently employed. It's particularly prevalent in scientific, academic, and journalistic contexts. While its passive construction is acceptable, consider active voice alternatives for more direct writing. Remember to clearly identify the subject performing the explaining to prevent ambiguity. Highly related alternatives are "serve to clarify" and "help to illustrate". Overall, this phrase is a reliable asset for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serve to clarify

Emphasizes the function of making something clearer or easier to understand.

help to illustrate

Highlights the use of examples to make something understandable.

function as a means to explicate

More formal alternative, emphasizing the role in detailed explanation.

provide a rationale for

Focuses on giving reasons or justification.

offer an interpretation of

Stresses the act of providing a subjective understanding.

illuminate the reasons behind

Highlights the act of shedding light on underlying causes.

elucidate the factors influencing

Focuses on clarifying the elements that have an effect.

work to demonstrate

Highlights the use of evidence to prove something.

aim to account for

Stresses the intention of explaining or justifying something.

clarify the mechanisms underlying

Focuses on explaining the processes that cause something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "are used to explain" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "serve to clarify", "function as a means to explicate", or "provide a rationale for depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "are used to explain" and "help to illustrate"?

"Are used to explain" generally implies a more thorough and detailed explanation, while "help to illustrate" suggests the use of examples or visuals to make something easier to understand.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "are used to explain"?

While "are used to explain" is grammatically correct in the passive voice, using the active voice (e.g., "Researchers explain...") can often make your writing more direct and impactful. The best choice depends on the context and desired emphasis.

In what contexts is "are used to explain" most appropriate?

"Are used to explain" is well-suited for academic, scientific, and technical writing where the goal is to provide clear and logical explanations of complex concepts or phenomena. It is also suitable for journalistic reporting.