can be explained as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be explained as a" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify or define something by providing an explanation or description. Example: "The phenomenon can be explained as a result of various environmental factors influencing the ecosystem."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The one can be explained as a piece of bad judgment.

The New Yorker

This can be explained as a result of the Coulombic repulsion of neighbouring charges.

Polymer

There is an interesting variation in the forecasts that can be explained as a variation of contexts of the actors.

Industrial Marketing Management

In particular, we review evidence suggesting that the centrality of DIF can be explained as a case of idea ownership.

Developmental Review

Four experiments examined the extent to which the phonological similarity effect can be explained as a sublexical speech error.

Journal of Memory and Language

From the results, PB generation can be explained as a surface chemical process coupled with the electron transfer reaction.

Electrochimica Acta

To say that this phrase can be explained as a "statutory 'exclamation point,' " post, at 54-55, n. 6, is just another way of describing redundancy.

Cornell University

Conclusion: Adherence success in sub-Saharan Africa can be explained as a means of fulfilling social responsibilities and thus preserving social capital in essential relationships.

Harvard University

Alternatively, the cultural backlash thesis suggests that support can be explained as a reaction against cultural changes that threaten the worldview of once-predominant sectors of the population.

Harvard University

These results can be explained as a special instance of the redundancy effect as well as a consequence of processing interference within visuo-spatial working memory.

Computers in Human Behavior

It is believed that most nonbiological depressions can be explained as a lack of hopeful thinking and that depressive symptoms can be treated successfully by raising clients' hopes.

Handbook of Hope Theory, Measures, & Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “can be explained as a” to introduce a simplified or clarified understanding of complex concepts or phenomena.

Common error

Avoid using “can be explained as a” when the explanation is overly simplistic or reductive, potentially misrepresenting the complexity of the topic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be explained as a" serves as an explanatory device. It introduces a description, interpretation, or simplification of a concept or phenomenon. The examples in Ludwig AI show its usage across various domains, from science to academia.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

62%

Academia

21%

News & Media

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be explained as a" functions as a tool for clarifying complex concepts by providing an accessible explanation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used across different fields, including science, academia, and news. While it's suitable for both neutral and formal contexts, it's best to avoid oversimplification. Consider alternatives like "can be attributed to" or "can be understood as" to tailor your phrasing more precisely. Using "can be explained as a" effectively enhances clarity and understanding in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be attributed to

Focuses on identifying the cause or origin of something.

can be understood as

Emphasizes the interpretation or comprehension of a subject.

can be seen as

Highlights a particular perspective or viewpoint.

can be interpreted as

Similar to 'understood as' but suggests a more subjective reading.

can be characterized as

Focuses on describing the key features or qualities of something.

can be defined as

Emphasizes a precise or formal explanation.

can be regarded as

Suggests a considered or evaluative perspective.

can be considered as

Similar to 'regarded as' but implies a more general assessment.

can be explained by

Focuses on the mechanism or process providing the explanation.

stems from

Indicates the origin or root cause of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be explained as a" to introduce a clarifying definition or understanding of something. For example, "The increase in crime rates can be explained as a result of economic downturn."

What are some alternatives to "can be explained as a"?

Alternatives include "can be attributed to", "can be understood as", or "can be seen as" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "can be explained as a" in formal writing?

Yes, "can be explained as a" is appropriate in formal writing. However, consider stronger, more precise phrasing if the context requires it.

What's the difference between "can be explained as a" and "is due to"?

"Can be explained as a" offers a description or interpretation, while "is due to" indicates a direct cause. For example, "The phenomenon can be explained as a consequence of climate change," versus "The flood is due to heavy rainfall."