calling for explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "calling for explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when requesting clarification or further details about a particular issue or statement. Example: "The committee is calling for explanation regarding the recent budget discrepancies."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The pattern was consistent across the Interphone study sites and statistically precise, calling for explanation.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

MASH are calling for explanations to the following: The precise reasons why the company is no longer trading on AIM.

BBC

This, too, called for explanation.

The New Yorker

This calls for explanation and, from both Canadians and Americans, understanding.

The New Yorker

This weekend, I heard from a reader, Len Cassamas, regarding something that I posted last week and that, I agree, merits discussion and calls for explanation.

The New Yorker

His special interest in studying the soul (nafs) calls for explanation.

SEP

The failure of property composition in the modal interpretation calls for explanation.

SEP

On the contrary, the young landscape of bare soil on the proximal and intermediate dune, calls for explanation.

Geoenvironmental Disasters

I think that he treats it is as prior in the order of discovery, in the sense that initially it seems not to call for explanation.

SEP

The greatest challenge many students face in understanding evolution is what Wallace faced in 1846: they haven't seen the sort of diversity that calls for explanation in terms of evolution.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

The key is to think of explanations as question-answer episodes involving four elements: the explanation-seeking question about P, P?, the cognitive state C of the questioner/agent for whom P calls for explanation, the answer A, and the cognitive state C+A in which the need for explanation of P has disappeared.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "calling for explanation", ensure the context makes it clear who is expected to provide the explanation. Be specific about what needs to be explained to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "calling for explanation" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler phrases like "Can you explain?" or "What's the reason?" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "calling for explanation" functions as a verbal phrase that signifies a request or demand for someone to provide reasons or details about a particular situation. It typically implies that something is unclear, questionable, or requires justification. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "calling for explanation" is a verbal phrase used to request or demand clarification on a particular issue, often implying a need for justification. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It finds application across various contexts, including scientific, news and media, and encyclopedic sources. While grammatically sound, it's advisable to consider the context and audience when choosing between "calling for explanation" and simpler alternatives to ensure the tone is appropriate. Consider "demanding clarification" or "seeking clarification" as viable alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demanding clarification

This alternative is more direct and assertive, implying a right or expectation to receive an explanation.

requesting an explanation

This is a more formal and polite way of asking for an explanation.

seeking clarification

Focuses on the act of trying to understand something better, often implying that the current information is insufficient.

insisting on an explanation

This phrase is stronger, suggesting that an explanation is non-negotiable.

pressing for details

This emphasizes the need for specific information, going beyond a general explanation.

urging an explanation

This implies a sense of urgency or importance in receiving an explanation.

inquiry for explanation

This is a more formal phrasing, typical of official or investigative contexts.

explanation needed

This is a more concise and direct way to state that an explanation is required.

explanation requested

This is a passive form, suitable for formal communications.

wanting an explanation

This is a simpler, more informal way of expressing the need for an explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "calling for explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "calling for explanation" when you want someone to provide reasons or details about something unclear or questionable. For example, "The committee is calling for explanation regarding the recent budget discrepancies." It emphasizes the need for clarification and justification.

What can I say instead of "calling for explanation"?

You can use alternatives like "demanding clarification", "requesting an explanation", or "seeking clarification" depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "calling for an explanation" the same as "asking for an explanation"?

While both phrases request clarification, "calling for an explanation" implies a stronger demand or expectation, especially when there's a perceived obligation to explain. "Asking for an explanation" is generally more neutral.

When is it appropriate to use "calling for explanation"?

It's appropriate to use "calling for explanation" in situations where there is a need to formally request or demand clarification, especially when something seems questionable or requires justification. This is common in professional, formal, or investigative contexts.