clarifying explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

"clarifying explanation" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you want to specify that an explanation serves to make something clearer. For example, "The teacher provided a clarifying explanation of the complex topic." Alternative expressions include "explanatory clarification" and "elucidating explanation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

A few weeks later, with nary a clarifying explanation, or an apology to his kid, he declared himself a Trump voter afresh.

The New Yorker

Based on feedback from the women, the phrasing of two questions was modified and a clarifying explanation was added.

Human Reproduction

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

As a solution, we decided to create an information leaflet with clarifying explanations since no further explanations fitted on the screen.

Blood Pressure

We have used these comments to provide additional evidence and clarified explanations of our conclusion that meiotic drivers exist on all three S. kambucha chromosomes and significantly contribute to spore inviability in Sk/Sp hybrids.

eLife

Mr. Hebert said Mr. Abbott had also agreed to notify all registered voters about the signing requirement, to include clearer instructions with the mail ballot and on the envelope, and to consult with Mr. Hebert on clarifying the explanation of the law on the state's Web site.

The New York Times

Since this explanation was already given, we removed the term "adjusted" to clarify the explanation.

eLife

This article was amended on 20 December 2011 to clarify the explanation of the "core/margin" idea.

The Guardian

(Photo credit: JIM BOURG / POOL / AFP The second paragraph of this post was updated on July 22nd to clarify our explanation of the process by which Iran will neutralise its stockpile.

The Economist

To understand the meaning of the Māori territory, it is crucial to clarify their explanation about the origin of the world known by humans.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

For the savings result, we clarified the explanation of our results.

eLife

It might be useful to clarify your explanation of the topology experiment.

eLife

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "clarifying explanation", ensure that the explanation actually makes the subject matter easier to understand. If the explanation adds complexity, consider revising it.

Common error

Avoid using "clarifying explanation" when a simple "explanation" would suffice. Overuse can make your writing sound verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clarifying explanation" functions as a noun phrase, where "clarifying" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "explanation". It describes a specific type of explanation that serves to remove ambiguity or confusion. Ludwig AI shows that this phrase is used in various contexts to denote explanations that enhance understanding.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clarifying explanation" is a grammatically sound and useful phrase for describing explanations that aim to improve understanding. Ludwig's analysis of real-world examples indicates it is most frequently used in science and news contexts. While correct, it is important to ensure the phrase isn't redundant and that the explanation genuinely clarifies the subject matter. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and provides several alternatives, such as "explanatory clarification" and "elucidating explanation", which can add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explanatory clarification

This alternative reverses the order of the words, emphasizing the clarification aspect.

elucidating explanation

Replaces "clarifying" with "elucidating", which means to make clear or explain.

illuminating explanation

Uses "illuminating" instead of "clarifying", suggesting that the explanation sheds light on the topic.

detailed clarification

Focuses on the level of detail provided in the explanation.

thorough explanation

Highlights the completeness of the explanation.

in-depth explanation

Emphasizes the depth and intensity of the explanation.

precise explanation

Focuses on the accuracy and exactness of the explanation.

explicit explanation

Emphasizes that the explanation is clear and unambiguous.

further explanation

Indicates that the explanation provides additional details or context.

more detailed explanation

Indicates that the explanation provides a greater level of detail.

FAQs

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

You can use "clarifying explanation" to describe an explanation that makes something easier to understand. For instance, "The professor provided a "clarifying explanation" of the theory."

What are some alternatives to "clarifying explanation"?

Some alternatives include "explanatory clarification", "elucidating explanation", or "illuminating explanation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "clarifying explanation" redundant?

While "clarifying explanation" is grammatically correct, it can sometimes be redundant. Consider whether simply using "explanation" provides sufficient clarity. If additional emphasis is needed, "clarifying" can be useful.

When should I use "clarifying explanation" over a simpler term?

Use "clarifying explanation" when you want to emphasize that the explanation specifically resolves confusion or makes something easier to understand. It highlights the function of making something clear.