describe how

USAGE SUMMARY

"describe how" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a request for a detailed explanation, e.g. "Please describe how you prepared the dish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They describe how fluids move.

The Guardian

Words can't describe how I feel".

Independent

I cannot describe how bad it tastes.

Independent

'I can't describe how awful it was.

The Guardian

Briefly describe how they are similar".

The New York Times

"It's hard to describe how I feel.

The New York Times

I can't describe how that feels".

The Guardian

I can't describe how helpless we feel".

The Guardian

Families describe how they have lost everything.

The Guardian

I can't really describe how I feel.

The Guardian

I can't describe how bad it feels.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "describe how" to introduce explanations of processes, mechanisms, or methods. This sets a clear expectation for the type of information that will follow.

Common error

Avoid using passive voice when you should be actively explaining a process. Instead of saying 'It was described how...', use 'The author describes how...' to maintain clarity and directness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "describe how" functions as an interrogative phrase introducing a request for explanation. It prompts a detailed account of a process, method, or phenomenon. Ludwig AI validates this through numerous examples where it prefaces explanations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

28%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "describe how" is a versatile phrase used to request detailed explanations across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It's suitable for both formal and informal settings, with the primary contexts being news, scientific, and wiki articles. When using this phrase, ensure clarity and specificity in your request. Alternatives like ""explain how"" and ""detail how"" can be used depending on the level of detail required. Remember to avoid overuse of passive voice to maintain clarity and directness in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explain how

Focuses on providing a clear and detailed account of a process or situation.

detail how

Emphasizes the provision of specific details regarding a process or event.

illustrate how

Involves using examples to clarify a method or process.

outline how

Focuses on giving a structured overview of a process or system.

specify how

Highlights the need for a precise and clear explanation of a procedure.

show how

Focuses on demonstrating the method or process.

demonstrate how

Indicates a practical explanation or a display of a process.

clarify how

Stresses the importance of making a process or concept easier to understand.

present how

Refers to the manner in which information is conveyed or displayed.

recount how

Focuses on narrating a sequence of events or steps.

FAQs

How can I use "describe how" in a sentence?

Use "describe how" to introduce an explanation of a process or the workings of something. For example, "Describe how the engine functions" or "Describe how you solved the problem".

What are some alternatives to "describe how"?

You can use alternatives like "explain how", "detail how", or "illustrate how" depending on the context and the level of detail you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "describe how" in writing?

"Describe how" is appropriate when you need someone to provide a detailed account of a process, mechanism, or method. It's suitable for both technical and non-technical contexts where clarity is important.

What's the difference between ""explain how"" and "describe how"?

While both phrases are similar, "describe how" focuses more on providing a detailed account, while ""explain how"" emphasizes making something understandable. The choice depends on whether you need a detailed account or a clarified understanding.