better explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "better explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing explanations, indicating that one explanation is superior to another in clarity or comprehensiveness. Example: "After reviewing both theories, I found that the second one provided a better explanation of the phenomenon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I wish I had a better explanation".

The New York Times

They have to give a better explanation," said Satrapi.

The Guardian - Books

Data from a new mission should help scientists find a better explanation.

The New Yorker

In both cases, however, there's a better explanation for what happened.

The New York Times

But a better explanation is that it has so little might left.

The Guardian - Opinion

A better explanation is the Knicks' sudden inability to win away from Madison Square Garden.

The New York Times - Sports

There is perhaps no better explanation for the rather remarkable situation unfolding right now in Washington.

The Guardian - Opinion

"But a better explanation would be that concerns elsewhere overwhelmed the BOJ action".

The Guardian - Business

Andrews's innovation is to wonder whether "energy systems" might provide a better explanation than ideology.

The New Yorker

But a better explanation lies in an analysis of Abdullah's interests and current negotiating position.

The New Yorker

"We could very likely have the exact same maps, just with a better explanation," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "better explanation" to highlight improvements or revisions to a previously inadequate or incomplete explanation.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is a "better explanation" without providing specific reasons or evidence to support your claim. Explain why it's superior in terms of clarity, accuracy, or completeness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better explanation" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "better" modifies the noun "explanation". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It often appears in contexts where a comparison between different explanations is being made.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "better explanation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, used to denote a more suitable or improved account of something. Its versatile nature allows it to fit into news, scientific, and formal business discussions seamlessly. When using this phrase, remember to provide supporting evidence to substantiate why one explanation is indeed "better" than another. Consider alternatives like "superior clarification" or "improved rationale" for nuanced expression. Its prevalence across various authoritative sources underscores its reliability and correctness in diverse contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

superior clarification

Emphasizes the improved quality of the clarification.

improved rationale

Highlights the enhanced reasoning behind something.

more compelling account

Focuses on the persuasiveness and detail of the explanation.

clearer understanding

Stresses the ease of comprehension provided by the explanation.

deeper insight

Suggests a more profound and thorough explanation.

enhanced interpretation

Highlights the refined and improved understanding provided.

more convincing argument

Focuses on the persuasive nature of the explanation.

refined explanation

Emphasizes the polished and improved state of the explanation.

more accurate depiction

Highlights the precision and truthfulness of the explanation.

more thorough account

Stresses the completeness and detail of the explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "better explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "better explanation" to compare different explanations. For example, "After considering both theories, I believe the second one offers a "better explanation" of the data."

What are some alternatives to saying "better explanation"?

Alternatives include "superior clarification", "improved rationale", or "more compelling account", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to provide a "better explanation" if the original one is understood?

Not always, but providing a "better explanation" can enhance understanding, correct misconceptions, or offer a more complete perspective, especially in complex or ambiguous situations.

When is it appropriate to challenge an existing explanation with a "better explanation"?

It's appropriate when new evidence contradicts the existing explanation, when the current explanation is incomplete or unclear, or when a "better explanation" offers a more accurate or comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.