can you explain why

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can you explain why" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to ask someone to explain the reason for something. For example: Can you explain why we should choose this option?.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Can you explain why it is?

The Guardian

Can you explain why that is true?

The Guardian

Can you explain why that makes you "hopeful"?

The New York Times

Can you explain why the RGIII fumble for a touchdown wasn't considered a forward lateral?

The New York Times

So, in summary Judy, can you explain: why do the Ravens get so little media love?

The New York Times

If not, how can you explain why Chavismo lost almost a million votes?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

If your retention costs are going up, this per-customer number can help you explain why in the context of your go-to-market strategy.

TechCrunch

(Where did he go?) And can you explain clearly why we use 'did' which is past tense of the verb 'do'do

WikiHow

Can you explain to us why you'd need to spend so much money to secure this seat?

The New York Times

You only ask them, "Can you explain this medically?" Why were there 10 years between the first miracle and the second miracle?

The New York Times

3.26pm: "Can you explain to me why Tour riders bother to have blood transfusions or to take extra testosterone when they will get caught?" asks Janice Morgan.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and adjust your language accordingly. In formal settings, alternatives like "Could you elaborate on the reasons why..." might be more appropriate.

Common error

While "can you explain why" is perfectly acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives such as "what is the rationale behind" or "how do you account for" to enhance readability and maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can you explain why" functions primarily as an interrogative expression used to solicit an explanation or reason. It prompts the listener or reader to provide justification or clarification for a particular event, decision, or state of affairs. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and suitable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

34%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can you explain why" is a versatile and frequently used interrogative expression that serves the primary function of requesting clarification or justification. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in written English. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, though more formal alternatives may be preferred in academic or professional environments. The prevalence of this phrase in News & Media and Science, as demonstrated by Ludwig, underscores its widespread applicability. When using this phrase, clarity and audience awareness are key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could you clarify why

Replaces "explain" with "clarify", implying a need for a clearer understanding.

can you elaborate on the reasons why

Substitutes "explain" with "elaborate on the reasons", asking for a more detailed explanation.

can you give the reasons why

Adds the element of "giving" the reasons, making the request slightly more polite.

what's the explanation for

Rephrases the question to focus on the "explanation", offering a slightly less direct approach.

what's the reasoning behind

Similar to "rationale", but uses "reasoning", which is less formal.

what is the rationale behind

Shifts from a direct question to inquiring about the "rationale", suggesting a more formal tone.

what are the reasons for

Focuses on the plural "reasons", implying a need for multiple justifications.

why is that the case

Simplifies the question to a more direct inquiry about the reason for a situation.

how do you account for

Replaces "explain" with "account for", suggesting a need for justification or justification.

what's the purpose of

Shifts the focus to the "purpose", rather than the reason, implying a goal-oriented explanation.

FAQs

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

You can use "can you explain why" to ask for clarification or reasons behind a certain situation or decision. For example, "Can you explain why this approach was chosen?"

What are some alternatives to "can you explain why"?

Alternatives include phrases like "could you clarify why", "what is the rationale behind", or "what's the explanation for", depending on the context and desired formality.

Is it better to use "can you explain why" or "why"?

Using "can you explain why" is generally more polite and less direct than simply asking "why". It softens the inquiry and shows consideration for the person being asked.

What is the difference between "can you explain why" and "how do you explain"?

"Can you explain why" directly asks if someone is able to provide an explanation. "How do you explain", on the other hand, seeks the method or manner in which someone justifies or understands something. They're subtly different in their focus.