as we explained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as we explained" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer back to a previous explanation or clarification that has been provided in the text or conversation. Example: "The results of the experiment were inconclusive, as we explained in the previous section."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Local government didn't like it at all, as we explained in November 2008.

The Guardian - Tech

Seat design is an area where they usually take the lead, as we explained recently.

The Economist

"He slowly managed to calm down as we explained to him that no, the military had not taken over again. . . .

The New Yorker

As we explained at 12.10pm, a satellite news gathering operation supplied by the EBU has been set up at the ERT's carpark, allowing them to keep broadcasting.

The Guardian - Business

As we explained last year, GNM management intended to outsource the majority of jobs in the IT department to cut costs.

The Guardian

"I knew we'd designed it well when a few kids wanted to quit as soon as we explained the conditions to them," he says.

The New Yorker

Although Bruce is naturally eager to resume Maiden activities, it will take a while before he is completely back to full strength, as we explained previously.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

As we explain elsewhere, there is the off-chance that such reds will work with seafood.

The Economist

In total, $2.2bn has been donated to Syria - although that might be a misleading headline figure, as we explain below.

The Guardian

As with all regulation, the devil is in the details (as we explain in this week's issue).

The Economist

The benefits of these higher rates are not immediately obvious as we explain in this week's print edition.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as we explained" to smoothly transition to a related point, reminding the reader of the foundational information. This helps maintain clarity and coherence.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "as we explained". This can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your sentence structure by rephrasing the connection to prior information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as we explained" functions as a linking phrase, connecting a current statement to a prior explanation. It serves to remind the audience of previously provided information, ensuring continuity and coherence in the discourse. Ludwig examples confirm its role in referencing prior content.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

44%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as we explained" is a grammatically correct and very common linking phrase used to refer back to previous explanations. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to provide context and reinforce understanding, making it suitable for various registers, especially in News & Media and Science. When writing, be mindful of overusing this phrase and consider alternatives like "as previously discussed" or "as mentioned earlier" to maintain a natural and engaging tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as previously discussed

Focuses on the fact that the topic was talked about before.

as mentioned earlier

Emphasizes the temporal aspect of the previous mention.

as noted above

Specifically points to a previous statement within the text.

as detailed previously

Highlights the level of detail provided in the prior explanation.

as we have already covered

Indicates that the topic has been thoroughly addressed.

as outlined before

Implies a structured or organized previous explanation.

in accordance with our previous explanation

More formal phrasing.

referring to our prior statement

Explicitly directs the reader back to the original statement.

in light of what we've already established

Highlights the already created context for it to base the next explanation on.

consistent with what we presented earlier

Emphasizes that something is consistent with a previous explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "as we explained" in a sentence?

Use "as we explained" to refer back to information or concepts that you've already presented, creating a connection between different parts of your writing or speech. For instance: "The process is complex, but, "as we explained", each step is crucial."

What are some alternatives to "as we explained"?

Alternatives include "as previously discussed", "as mentioned earlier", or "as noted above". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is it correct to say "as we explained previously"?

While grammatically correct, "as we explained previously" can be somewhat redundant. "As we explained" already implies that the explanation occurred before. For a similar but slightly different emphasis, consider "as detailed previously".

What's the difference between "as we explained" and "as we will explain"?

"As we explained" refers to something already covered, whereas "as we will explain" indicates something that will be covered later in the text or conversation. They serve opposite functions in guiding the reader or listener.