ask for explanations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for explanations" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to request clarification or further details about a topic or situation. Example: "If you don't understand the concept, don't hesitate to ask for explanations during the lecture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Accustomed to messy problems, they did not ask for explanations.

The New Yorker

When a bank is involved in a matter that makes such a noise, then we have to ask for explanations".

The New York Times

No one wants to believe it, and once it has happened it is too late to ask for explanations.

The New York Times

From then on, I had the courage to put my hand up and ask for explanations at all sorts of meetings.

The Guardian

All bids are required to be transparent — opponents can even ask for explanations — but the complexity can be intimidating, especially for beginners.

The New Yorker

Grant applications and project assessments ask for explanations of the work's probable societal impact, and commercial funding frequently comes with a desired application as a goal.

Nature

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

The poor sods come to him asking for explanations.

The Guardian - Books

"When I asked for explanations, they were like, 'Because it's like that,'" she recalls tartly.

The Guardian

When he asked for explanations, the police just wrote more tickets.

The Guardian

If an instructor suspects academic dishonesty, the instructor contacts the student or students involved and asks for explanations.

Columbia University

Listening to us, the President commented on some of the things that we said, asked for explanations on others.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In persuasive writing, precede "ask for explanations" with a justification for the need for clarity, which will strengthen your argument and demonstrate due diligence.

Common error

While "ask for explanations" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "Can you explain?" or "What's that about?" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for explanations" functions as a verb phrase used to express a request for clarification or a more detailed account of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and usable expression. Examples show it used in various contexts, from personal interactions to formal inquiries.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ask for explanations" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to request clarification or more detailed information. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, and examples show it spanning various contexts, primarily news, science, and business. While the phrase maintains a neutral to professional register, it's important to gauge the context to maintain the appropriate tone; simpler alternatives might suit informal conversations better. Remember to justify the need for clarity to maximize its impact in persuasive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request clarification

This is a more formal alternative, often used in professional or academic settings. It focuses on making something clearer.

seek justification

This alternative implies a need to understand the reasons or basis behind something, suggesting a demand for accountability.

inquire about reasons

Similar to 'seek justification', this option involves formally questioning the rationale behind a decision or action.

demand an account

This phrase is stronger and suggests that someone is being held responsible and needs to provide a detailed explanation.

solicit an explanation

This is a more formal way of asking for an explanation, often used in official or legal contexts.

press for details

This implies persistence in seeking specific information, suggesting that initial explanations were insufficient.

look for reasons

This is a more general way of expressing a need to understand the underlying causes or justifications.

seek understanding

This phrase emphasizes the desire to comprehend something fully, going beyond a simple explanation.

want the rationale

This option focuses on the underlying logic or reasoning behind an action or decision.

question the motives

This suggests a deeper inquiry into the intentions or purposes behind something, often implying skepticism.

FAQs

How can I use "ask for explanations" in a sentence?

You can use "ask for explanations" when you need someone to clarify something. For example, "If you don't understand the concept, don't hesitate to ask for explanations."

What are some alternatives to "ask for explanations"?

You can use alternatives like "request clarification", "seek justification", or "inquire about reasons" depending on the context.

Is it better to "ask for explanations" or "demand an explanation"?

"Ask for explanations" is a neutral request for clarification, while "demand an explanation" implies a right or expectation to receive one, often in response to something perceived as wrong or requiring accountability.

When is it appropriate to "ask for explanations" rather than simply asking a question?

Use "ask for explanations" when you need a comprehensive understanding of a process, decision, or complex topic, not just a simple answer. It indicates a desire for a detailed rationale.