credible explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

"credible explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an explanation that is plausible and with evidence to back it up. For example: John's alibi of a family emergency was a credible explanation for his absence from work.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I see no credible explanation for this.

The Guardian - Opinion

And still there remains that howling absence: a credible explanation of why ISDS is necessary.

The Guardian - Opinion

He also said he was asked to resign "without credible explanation".

The New York Times

Until there is a credible explanation, there is no hope of calming the country's turmoil.

The New York Times

There is an equally credible explanation, though: driving a car in Ukraine is life-threatening.

The New York Times

The majority's rush to judgment has no credible explanation in the per curiam opinion.

The New York Times

Challenged on this point, the panel say: "He did not have a credible explanation".

The Guardian - Sport

A more credible explanation is the fusion in Karachi of gangland, political and ethnic battle lines.

The Economist

In 2009 Mr Sanader resigned as prime minister without a credible explanation.

The Economist

That credible explanation already gives the repurchase effect a significant leg up on the Super Bowl Indicator.

The New York Times

MS. CARNAHAN -- When you left -- you never really gave a credible explanation when you left in August.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "credible explanation", ensure that the explanation is supported by evidence or reasoning to enhance its believability.

Common error

Avoid using "credible explanation" when the explanation is based solely on speculation or lacks factual support. Ensure there is a basis for its believability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "credible explanation" functions as a noun phrase, where 'credible' modifies 'explanation.' Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in written English. The phrase is used to describe an account or reason that is believable and trustworthy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "credible explanation" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term, meaning a believable and trustworthy account. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s widely accepted in English writing. Its primary function is to provide a convincing justification, often supported by evidence or logical reasoning. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it also appears in scientific and encyclopedic contexts. To enhance credibility, ensure the explanation is well-supported and based on factual evidence. Common alternatives include "plausible justification", "convincing rationale", and "believable account".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Plausible justification

Emphasizes the reason's feasibility and believability.

Convincing rationale

Focuses on the persuasive power of the reason.

Believable account

Highlights the trustworthiness of the description.

Valid reason

Stresses the legitimacy and soundness of the justification.

Sound interpretation

Emphasizes a logical and reliable understanding.

Reliable clarification

Focuses on the dependability of the explanation.

Authentic story

Highlights the genuineness and truthfulness of the narrative.

Defensible argument

Emphasizes the ability to support the explanation against challenges.

Acceptable alibi

Focuses on an explanation that excuses or justifies an action.

Substantiated claim

Highlights that the explanation has supporting evidence.

FAQs

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

You can use "credible explanation" to describe a reason or account that is believable and supported by evidence. For example: "The scientist provided a "credible explanation" for the anomaly in the data set."

What are some alternatives to "credible explanation"?

Alternatives include "plausible justification", "convincing rationale", or "believable account" depending on the specific context.

What makes an explanation "credible"?

A "credible explanation" is one that is believable and supported by evidence, logical reasoning, or reliable sources. It is an account that can be trusted or accepted as true.

How does a "credible explanation" differ from a "possible explanation"?

A "possible explanation" is simply one that could be true, while a "credible explanation" is one that is likely to be true based on available evidence and reasoning. Credibility implies a higher degree of believability.