cannot explain it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot explain it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing an inability to clarify or provide details about a particular subject or situation. Example: "When asked about the sudden change in plans, she simply replied that she cannot explain it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

I cannot explain it.

Independent

"And we cannot explain it all".

The New York Times

Ask Mickelson why, and he cannot explain it.

The New York Times - Sports

If you cannot feel the joy of this, I cannot explain it to you.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Overseas Chinese gravitated to retailing in so many countries that discrimination cannot explain it.

The New York Times

I cannot explain it; but when difficulties arise, I am not perplexed or doubtful.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

I have many anxieties, but for some reason that I really cannot explain, I know it will work out.

The New York Times

Some may use it to argue for a new and non-classical understanding of the mind, while others would use it to argue that connectionism is inadequate since it cannot explain what it must.

SEP

I cannot even explain it".

The New York Times - Sports

"I cannot frickin' explain it".

The New Yorker

I truly cannot even explain it to myself. . . .

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cannot explain it" when you genuinely lack the ability to provide a clear reason or understanding for something. Avoid using it as a way to dismiss further inquiry.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot explain it" repeatedly in your writing. Opt for more descriptive alternatives like "unable to clarify" or "it's inexplicable" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot explain it" functions as an expression of inability to provide a clear explanation or understanding of a particular subject or situation. As Ludwig AI shows, it's commonly used when facing something difficult to articulate.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cannot explain it" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate an inability to provide a clear explanation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. While versatile, it's essential to use this phrase judiciously and consider alternative expressions like "unable to clarify" or "it's inexplicable" to avoid overuse and maintain clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's inexplicable

States that something is incapable of being explained.

I'm at a loss to explain

Indicates a state of not knowing how to explain something.

unable to clarify

Emphasizes the lack of ability to make something clear or understandable.

I'm unable to articulate it

Focuses on the inability to express something in words.

it defies explanation

Suggests that something is impossible to explain.

beyond my comprehension

Highlights that the subject is difficult to understand.

it escapes my understanding

Emphasizes that something is beyond one's grasp of understanding.

I'm stumped

Indicates a state of being confused and unable to find an explanation.

I can't quite put my finger on it

Implies a vague sense of understanding but an inability to articulate it.

words fail me

Highlights the inadequacy of language to convey understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot explain it" in a sentence?

You can use "cannot explain it" to express an inability to provide a clear reason or understanding. For example: "When asked about the sudden change in plans, she simply replied that she "cannot explain it".

What can I say instead of "cannot explain it"?

You can use alternatives like "unable to clarify", "it's inexplicable", or "beyond my comprehension" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "cannot explain it"?

It's appropriate when you genuinely lack the ability to provide a clear explanation. However, consider if providing some context or related information would be more helpful to the listener or reader.

What is the difference between "cannot explain it" and "will not explain it"?

"Cannot explain it" implies an inability to explain, while "will not explain it" implies a refusal to explain, even if one could. The former suggests a lack of understanding, and the latter suggests a deliberate withholding of information.