careful explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "careful explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an explanation that is thorough and attentive to detail, ensuring clarity and understanding. Example: "The teacher provided a careful explanation of the complex topic, making it easier for the students to grasp the concepts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

It requires careful explanation.

The New York Times

Squaring the circle this way would call for careful explanation.

The New York Times

I had had a careful explanation of menstruation before I entered my all-girls secondary school.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Too much of its language is jargon that requires more careful explanation than the movie is willing to offer.

The New York Times

On the face of it this is an extraordinary finding and it is something that needs some careful explanation.

The Guardian - Opinion

PETER MANDELSON's political memoir "The Third Man"—streaking into bookshops now—opens with a careful explanation of the book's title.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

After all, careful explanations from Mr Osborne convinced most Tories that Ireland's collapse was not in British interests.

The Economist

The authors take on a variety of common topics (age discrimination, Social Security, housing, pensions, Medicare and other insurance) and offer clear, careful explanations and suggestions.

The New York Times

Careful explanations eased his worries, although he did not see the point of clearer certificates when villagers all know each other.

The New York Times - Tech

For more serious bakers, the first cookbook by Sarabeth Levine, "Sarabeth's Bakery" (Rizzoli, $39.95), offers careful explanations and detailed photographs invaluable for puff pastry and a host of other fundamentals.

The New York Times - Food

But remember this moment: it marks another step in a journey that could see Britain in a very strange place, for all Mr Cameron's careful explanations of the importance of the single market.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting complex information, precede it with a "careful explanation" to ensure your audience fully understands the foundation before diving into details.

Common error

Avoid using "careful explanation" as a mere placeholder. Ensure the subsequent explanation truly embodies care and detail, providing substantial value to the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "careful explanation" functions as a noun phrase, where "careful" modifies the noun "explanation". As highlighted by Ludwig, the expression is considered standard and acceptable in English writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "careful explanation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that denotes a detailed and thorough account. As Ludwig AI indicates, its primary function is to introduce or refer to an explanation that emphasizes clarity and precision. It appears across various contexts, notably in scientific and news media sources. Related phrases include "detailed account" and "thorough clarification", offering alternative ways to express thoroughness. When using this phrase, prioritize providing substantive, valuable details to avoid it becoming mere filler. By understanding its nuances and proper usage, you can effectively enhance the clarity and comprehensiveness of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

detailed account

Emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the information provided, focusing on the inclusion of many specifics.

thorough clarification

Highlights the completeness and depth of making something understandable.

meticulous breakdown

Suggests a precise and systematic analysis of a topic, dividing it into smaller parts for better understanding.

precise exposition

Indicates a highly accurate and clear presentation of information.

elaborate interpretation

Focuses on a detailed and developed understanding or explanation of a subject.

comprehensive analysis

Highlights an extensive and inclusive examination of a topic, covering all relevant aspects.

judicious interpretation

Emphasizes the quality of being prudent in the interpretation.

thoughtful breakdown

Highlights the quality of being caring in the interpretation.

clear exposition

Highlights the quality of being easy to understand.

thorough account

Emphasizes the quality of being comprehensive and detailed.

FAQs

How can I use "careful explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "careful explanation" to introduce a detailed and thorough account, such as, "The manual provides a "careful explanation" of the software's features."

What are some alternatives to "careful explanation"?

Alternatives include "detailed account", "thorough clarification", or "meticulous breakdown", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "careful explanation" in writing?

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize that the explanation provided is thorough, well-considered, and aims to avoid misunderstanding or confusion. Use it when clarity and precision are paramount.

What distinguishes "careful explanation" from a simple explanation?

A "careful explanation" implies a higher level of detail, precision, and attention to potential points of confusion compared to a standard explanation. It suggests a deliberate effort to ensure the audience fully grasps the subject matter.