can only begin to explain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can only begin to explain" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that the explanation provided is limited and that there is much more to say or understand about a topic. Example: "The data we have collected can only begin to explain the complexities of climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But those ingredients only begin to explain Lil Buck's extraordinary range of through-the-body movement.

The New York Times - Arts

But that only begins to explain why the Flyers have gained such an edge.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Obama has only begun to explain how he will fulfill his pledge to preserve Social Security without privatizing it.

The New York Times

But that only begins to explain the enormity of the mental and emotional journey on which the family would embark.

Los Angeles Times

We can only begin to imagine.

The Washington Post

Pandora can only begin to imagine where this will lead.

Independent

We can only begin to guess.

Huffington Post

You can only begin to imagine his sexual deficiencies.

Vice

I can only begin to imagine the relief.

Huffington Post

His speech only just began to explain the "big society".

The Guardian - Opinion

But nobody – scientist or philosopher – can even begin to explain how the linkage works.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, consider briefly mentioning what aspects will not be covered to manage reader expectations and set the scope of your discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "can only begin to explain" when your explanation is already reasonably thorough. Choose a different phrasing if you are not consciously omitting significant details or perspectives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can only begin to explain" functions as a qualifier, indicating that the explanation being provided is introductory and incomplete. It sets expectations that a more detailed or comprehensive account exists beyond what is currently being presented. According to Ludwig AI, it is a correct English expression.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can only begin to explain" is a grammatically sound expression used to indicate that an explanation is introductory and not exhaustive. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While examples are missing from this dataset, the phrase is commonly used across neutral to formal contexts, making it suitable for various forms of writing where clear communication and measured language are valued. Related phrases include "barely scratches the surface" and "provides a preliminary understanding", offering nuanced alternatives depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provides a preliminary understanding

Highlights the introductory nature of the explanation, focusing on basic comprehension.

only gets you started on

Suggests that the topic is broader than it seems and this explanation only addresses initial considerations.

just starts to cover

Indicates an initial exploration, similar to beginning but less emphatic about the limitations.

gives a basic overview

Focuses on providing a general outline, rather than a comprehensive explanation.

barely scratches the surface

Implies a very superficial treatment of a topic, more so than "can only begin to explain".

introduces the subject of

Highlights the act of presenting a topic for the first time, without delving into details.

offers a glimpse into

Suggests a brief and partial view, emphasizing the limited scope of the explanation.

is only the tip of the iceberg

Emphasizes that the visible explanation is a small part of a much larger, hidden reality.

merely hints at

Suggests a subtle and indirect indication, implying a much deeper complexity.

scarcely touches on

Indicates a minimal engagement with the topic, even less comprehensive than beginning to explain.

FAQs

How can I use "can only begin to explain" in a sentence?

This phrase is used to indicate that an explanation is introductory and not exhaustive. For example, "The data we have collected "can only begin to explain" the complexities of climate change."

What are some alternatives to "can only begin to explain"?

You can use alternatives like "barely scratches the surface", "just starts to cover", or "provides a preliminary understanding" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "can only begin to explain"?

Yes, the phrase "can only begin to explain" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English.

In what contexts is "can only begin to explain" most appropriate?

This phrase is suitable in contexts where you need to acknowledge the limited scope of your explanation, particularly when discussing complex or multifaceted topics.