can you explain that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can you explain that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking someone to clarify or provide more information about a specific topic or statement. Example: "I didn't quite understand the concept you just mentioned. Can you explain that?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

"Can you explain that?" I asked.

The New Yorker

Can you explain that formula?

The New Yorker

There is a special affinity between Mexico and boxing - can you explain that?

The Guardian - Sport

You can just comment on anything, everywhere.' Can you explain that impulse?

The Guardian - Music

Can you explain that? A. The merger has created a weightings issue.

The New York Times

Can you explain that? A. A lot of what's interesting to me is how Odysseus actually interacts with people.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Can you explain why that is and also how long that will last?

The New York Times

Can you explain why that is true?

The Guardian

Can you explain how that came about?

The New Yorker

Can you explain why that makes you "hopeful"?

The New York Times

Can you explain what that is?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can you explain that", ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity. Specify the 'that' if necessary by rephrasing to "can you explain [specific topic/statement]".

Common error

While acceptable, relying too heavily on "can you explain that" in formal writing might make your text sound less professional. Consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "could you elaborate on" or "would you clarify".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can you explain that" is primarily used as an interrogative, seeking clarification or further information on a previously mentioned topic or statement. As Ludwig highlights, it's a common way to request a more detailed explanation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can you explain that" is a grammatically correct and highly versatile interrogative phrase used to request clarification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears most frequently in news and media, but it is also present in scientific and business contexts. While perfectly acceptable, writers should consider more formal alternatives for highly professional settings. When using this phrase, clarity is crucial: ensure that the 'that' is clearly defined to prevent any confusion. The ubiquity of this phrase underscores its importance in facilitating understanding and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can you clarify that

Directly asks for clarification, suggesting the initial statement was unclear.

could you elaborate on that

Implies a request for more detailed information, often used in formal settings.

can you give me more detail on that

Requests additional details, implying a need for a more comprehensive understanding.

can you expand on that

Suggests a wish for a broader explanation or more examples.

what do you mean by that

Asks for the intended meaning behind a statement, often used in informal conversation.

how would you explain that

Seeks the speaker's personal understanding and interpretation of the topic.

can you walk me through that

Requests a step-by-step explanation, often used when describing a process.

can you break that down for me

Asks for a simplified explanation, implying the topic is complex.

can you put that in simpler terms

Requests an explanation using easier language, suitable for someone unfamiliar with the subject.

what's the explanation for that

Inquires about the reasons or causes behind a specific event or phenomenon.

FAQs

How can I use "can you explain that" in a sentence?

You can use "can you explain that" when you need someone to provide more details or clarify something they've said. For example: "I didn't understand the last point; "can you explain that"?"

What can I say instead of "can you explain that"?

You can use alternatives like "could you clarify "that"?", "could you elaborate on "that"?", or "what do you mean by "that"?" depending on the context.

Is "can you explain that to me" grammatically different from "can you explain that"?

The phrase "can you explain that to me" includes the indirect object 'to me', adding a personal element to the request. While both are correct, the choice depends on the desired emphasis. "Can you explain that" is more direct, while "can you explain that to me" emphasizes the speaker's need for understanding.

When is it inappropriate to use "can you explain that"?

It might be inappropriate to use "can you explain that" in highly formal or academic settings where a more sophisticated vocabulary is expected. In such cases, consider using phrases like "could you provide further clarification on "that"?"