does not explain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does not explain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that something lacks clarity or does not provide sufficient information on a topic. Example: "The report is lacking in detail and does not explain the methodology used in the study."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr Carroll does not explain.

The Economist

He does not explain either case.

The New York Times - Books

But it does not explain why.

The Economist

But that does not explain the violence.

The Economist

But it does not explain it entirely.

Independent

It does not explain why they looted.

The Guardian

But talent alone does not explain it.

The New York Times - Sports

The advertisement does not explain the asterisk.

The Guardian - Business

Schanzer describes, but does not explain.

The New York Times - Books

She does not explain this choice.

The Guardian - Film

But complexity alone does not explain the muted anger.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When criticizing, follow "does not explain" with a constructive suggestion or question that shows how the thing being criticized could have been improved.

Common error

Avoid using "does not explain" as a standalone critique. Always specify what the subject fails to clarify and why that lack of clarity is significant. Provide context to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does not explain" functions as a negative verb phrase, indicating a lack of clarification, reasoning, or detail. It is used to point out deficiencies in arguments, reports, or analyses, as shown by Ludwig, highlighting what is missing or left unaddressed. It's grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "does not explain" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that indicates a lack of clarification or reasoning. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions critically and analytically across diverse contexts such as news, science, and encyclopedias. While versatile, it should be used precisely, with a clear indication of what lacks explanation to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases like "fails to clarify" or "provides no rationale" offer alternative ways to express this sentiment. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal settings. The goal of this phrase is to emphasize missing information or challenge comprehensiveness. The phrase is very common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fails to clarify

Emphasizes the lack of clarity provided.

leaves unclarified

Highlights that something remains without explanation.

offers no clarification

Indicates a complete absence of explanatory information.

provides no rationale

Focuses on the absence of reasoning or justification.

doesn't account for

Suggests a failure to consider or include something in an explanation.

omits an explanation of

Highlights the exclusion of an explanation.

neglects to explain

Indicates an oversight in providing an explanation.

skips over the explanation

Implies a deliberate avoidance or brief treatment of an explanation.

does not give reasons for

Focuses on the absence of stated reasons.

leaves the question unanswered

Emphasizes that a question remains without a response or explanation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "does not explain" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "fails to clarify", "leaves unclarified", or "provides no rationale" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "does not explain" and "does not elaborate"?

"Does not explain" indicates a complete lack of providing reasons or clarification, while "does not elaborate" suggests that some information is provided but lacks detail. You use "does not explain" when there's a total absence of clarification, and "does not elaborate" when there's a lack of thoroughness.

Is it appropriate to use "does not explain" in formal writing?

Yes, "does not explain" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and direct way to point out a lack of explanation. However, ensure your critique is constructive and specific.

What are common mistakes to avoid when using "does not explain"?

Avoid using it without context or justification. Saying something "does not explain" without specifying what is missing or why it matters weakens your argument. Always provide specific details about what needs clarification.