demand for explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "demand for explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a request or need for clarification or understanding regarding a particular issue or situation. Example: "The sudden changes in policy led to a significant demand for explanation from the employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The demand for explanation is simply misplaced.

SEP

Three approaches have been taken to undermine the demand for explanation presented by fine-tuning.

SEP

Though Blackburn speaks of 'supervenience' and 'necessitation' rather than weak and strong supervenience, his argument against moral realism rests on exactly the demand for explanation that we have been exploring.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The demand for explanations, he once complained, was itself a symptom of a bourgeois mentality.

The New Yorker

Rene Siegl, managing director of the Austrian Business Agency, a government office that seeks to attract direct foreign investment, said the new government was "no catastrophe," yet he conceded there was "quite some demand for explanations" from prospective investors in Japan, Taiwan and the United States.

The New York Times

To have the slightest chance of being left alone, Fletcher will have to win; defeats will bring unforgiving scrutiny and demands for explanation.

The New York Times - Sports

Two demands for explanation might still arise: Why is there a world at all rather than none?

SEP

The claiming can range from demands for explanation to monetary compensation, the resignation or dismissal of those who are culpable or official expressions of sorrow ranging from corporate apologies or more or less drastic acts of contrition by individual officeholders (Hood 2011).

Journal of Applied Volcanology

The discovery raised fears that Apple was tracking its users and prompted investigations by various European governments and demands for explanations from United States lawmakers.

The New York Times - Tech

[Page A22.] An array of administration officials fanned out across Capitol Hill, where, in closed-door meetings, they tried to head off an independent commission and respond to Congressional demands for explanations about what was known before Sept. 11.

The New York Times

Mr. Westin was faced with demands for explanations about the DiCaprio affair from Sam Donaldson, Peter Jennings and Ted Koppel, who are said to be uncomfortable with Mr. Westin's edict to try new things, though understanding of it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "demand for explanation", ensure the context clearly indicates who is making the demand and from whom the explanation is expected. This adds clarity and strengthens the sentence.

Common error

While "demand for explanation" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal or diplomatic contexts. Alternatives like "request for clarification" or "need for justification" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "demand for explanation" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It signifies a strong request or requirement for someone to provide reasons or justification for an action or event. Ludwig's examples show its usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

32%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "demand for explanation" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate a strong need for clarification or justification. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility across various domains, from news and media to science and formal business settings. While generally acceptable, it's crucial to consider the context and choose alternatives like "request for clarification" or "need for justification" in highly formal situations. Remember to clearly identify who is making the demand and from whom the explanation is expected to maximize clarity. Overall, understanding the nuances of this phrase ensures effective communication and precise expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request for clarification

Focuses on the act of seeking clarity rather than the insistence implied by "demand".

call for accountability

Emphasizes the need for someone to be responsible and explain their actions.

need for justification

Highlights the requirement for a valid reason or evidence to support a claim or action.

urgent request for details

Stresses the immediacy and the specific information sought.

insistence on elucidation

Emphasizes a firm and persistent request for a clear explanation.

requirement for rationale

Highlights the necessity of providing reasoning or a logical basis.

pressure for answers

Focuses on the external force pushing for explanations.

push for transparency

Highlights the desire for openness and clear communication.

search for understanding

Emphasizes the pursuit of comprehension rather than a direct demand.

quest for reason

Highlights the pursuit of logical justification.

FAQs

How can I use "demand for explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "demand for explanation" to describe a situation where someone is strongly requesting an explanation. For example, "The sudden policy change led to a significant "demand for explanation" from the employees."

What is a more formal alternative to "demand for explanation"?

Alternatives like "request for clarification" or "need for justification" might be more suitable in formal settings.

Is there a difference between "demand for explanation" and "call for explanation"?

While similar, "demand for explanation" implies a stronger insistence, whereas "call for explanation" can be a more general expression of needing an explanation.

When is it appropriate to use "demand for explanation"?

It's appropriate when there's a strong expectation or requirement for someone to provide a reason or justification for something, especially when there's been a perceived wrongdoing or lack of transparency.