calls for an explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'calls for an explanation' can be correctly used in written English.
It is usually used in the context of when an unexpected or confusing decision or action requires an explanation. For example, "The mayor's sudden resignation calls for an explanation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Or is something crucial missing, something that calls for an explanation at the level of the human organism?

Encyclopedia Britannica

The clubs' representatives obviously knew what they wanted when they negotiated the new tax, but the outcome raises questions and calls for an explanation.

The New York Times - Sports

Because try as he might to step away from the car, Mr. Issa is bombarded at every turn with calls for an explanation to those nagging questions about two arrests for car theft in his youth.

The New York Times

Even so, the change of course in the 1980s calls for an explanation, as does the fact that inequality has risen far more in some countries than in others.

The Economist

There were calls for an explanation from Lord Ashcroft among Labour and Liberal Democrat MPs and peers who believe that he is using his affluence to influence the outcome of polling in a number of key constituencies, where he makes no secret of his substantial donations towards the Tories' campaigns.

The Guardian

From work in typology in the second half of the 20th century, it emerged that certain logically unconnected features tend to occur together, so the presence of feature A in a given language will tend to imply the presence of feature B. The discovery of unexpected implications of this kind calls for an explanation and gives a stimulus to research in many branches of linguistics.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

In his letter to Hamilton, he called for an explanation.

Britannica

In June the aggrieved Burr wrote a letter to Hamilton, calling for an explanation.

Britannica

Publicly at least, Brazil's call for an explanation was met by silence in Canada.

The New York Times

And if Frampton's behavior was innocent, it still called for an explanation.

The New York Times - Magazine

The flowers were azaleas, instead of the usual hyazints; instinctively we felt that that called for an explanation.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "calls for an explanation" when you want to express that a situation, action, or statement is unexpected or questionable, and therefore requires a justifying explanation. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "calls for an explanation" in overly casual or informal settings where a more direct question or request would be more appropriate. Overusing it in casual conversations can sound stilted or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "calls for an explanation" functions as a comment on a situation, indicating that it is unusual or problematic enough to warrant a detailed justification. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with examples across various domains.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "calls for an explanation" is a phrase used to express that a situation or event requires clarification or justification. Ludwig AI validates that the phrase is grammatically correct and most commonly used in news, science, and encyclopedia contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it leans towards formality. For more casual settings, alternative phrases might be more suitable. Remember to use "calls for an explanation" when there is a genuine need for clarification and to avoid overuse in informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

raises questions

This simply states that something brings up uncertainties or doubts.

demands clarification

This alternative is more assertive, emphasizing a right to receive an explanation.

needs to be accounted for

This alternative emphasizes the necessity of providing a reason or justification for something.

requires justification

This alternative highlights the need for something to be proven right or reasonable.

warrants scrutiny

This suggests a need for careful and critical examination.

begs the question

This implies that something raises a fundamental issue or uncertainty.

prompts inquiry

This indicates that something encourages investigation or questioning.

invites discussion

This suggests an opportunity for further conversation to resolve ambiguity.

necessitates accounting

This emphasizes the need to provide a detailed report or reckoning.

cries out for understanding

This emphasizes a need for compassion and awareness to resolve ambiguity.

FAQs

How can I use "calls for an explanation" in a sentence?

The phrase "calls for an explanation" indicates that a particular situation or action needs to be clarified or justified. For example, "The sudden increase in prices "calls for an explanation" from the company."

What's a less formal way to say "calls for an explanation"?

If you're looking for a less formal alternative, consider using phrases like "needs an explanation" or "requires some explaining". These options are more suitable for casual conversations and less formal writing.

Which is correct: "calls for an explanation" or "calls for explanation"?

"Calls for an explanation" is the correct phrasing. The indefinite article "an" is necessary because "explanation" is a singular, countable noun.

What can I say instead of "calls for an explanation"?

You can use alternatives like "raises questions", "requires justification", or "demands clarification" depending on the context.