can explain

USAGE SUMMARY

"can explain" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you need to express the ability to provide an explanation or description. For example, "I can explain the history of the building."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I can explain.

The New York Times - Sports

He can explain.

The New York Times - Sports

They can explain things.

The New York Times

No one can explain it.

The New York Times

The partner can explain this.

The New York Times

But none can explain why.

The New York Times - Books

So it can explain anything".

The Economist

"You can explain it.

The New York Times - Sports

restaurant can explain it.

The New York Times

You can explain everything".

The New York Times - Books

Explaining can explain away.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can explain" to indicate the ability to provide a clear and understandable explanation of a topic or situation. Ensure the context makes it clear what the subject is capable of explaining.

Common error

Avoid using "can explain" as a blanket statement for complex topics. Instead, specify what aspects or parts of the topic the subject "can explain" to maintain clarity and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can explain" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating the ability or capacity to provide an explanation. It combines the modal verb 'can' with the verb 'explain', showing someone or something is capable of clarifying or justifying something. As supported by Ludwig AI, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can explain" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the ability to clarify or provide a rationale. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and wide applicability. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. While versatile, be mindful of context to avoid overuse or ambiguity. Alternatives like "is able to clarify" or "can account for" may offer subtle nuances. As with any phrase, contextual awareness is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can account for

Highlights providing an explanation or justification for something.

is able to clarify

Focuses on making something understandable.

can give reasons for

Stresses the act of providing explanations.

is capable of justifying

Emphasizes providing a valid reason or excuse.

can provide a rationale

Highlights giving a logical basis for something.

is equipped to illuminate

Focuses on the capability to clarify and make something understandable.

is in a position to elucidate

Indicates the ability to shed light on a topic, making it clearer.

is able to detail

Focuses on the ability to provide a comprehensive description.

is qualified to interpret

Suggests having the expertise to explain the meaning of something.

has the means to define

Emphasizes the capability to provide a clear and precise explanation.

FAQs

How to use "can explain" in a sentence?

Use "can explain" to indicate someone's ability to clarify or provide reasons for something. For example, "The teacher "can explain" the concept clearly" or "Only he "can explain" that."

What can I say instead of "can explain"?

You can use alternatives like "is able to clarify", "can account for", or "can provide a rationale" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "can explain" or "is able to explain"?

Both "can explain" and "is able to explain" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice often depends on stylistic preference, although "can explain" is generally more concise.

What's the difference between "can explain" and "can elaborate"?

"Can explain" implies the ability to make something understandable, while "can elaborate" suggests the ability to provide more detail or expand on a point. They differ in focus: understanding versus detail.