explain a point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explain a point" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used when asking someone to provide further clarification or details about a particular idea or argument. Example: "Can you please explain your point about the importance of education in today's society?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Lyubimov was unable to sit still; he moved continually, jumping out of his seat to explain a point.

The New York Times - Magazine

While John often gave the impression that he had just stepped off the floor of an engineering works and was too busy to talk, he was in fact generous with his time and patient enough to explain a point of nuclear physics to an inquiring reporter.

The Guardian

Can explain a point if the audience is unclear.

Language Testing in Asia

Dr. Shoukry always took his time to explain a point or a concept; I owe to him that I care about teaching, and I care about the people I'm teaching.

Duke University

Veteran teachers observe from the back but do not intervene (though some can't resist holding up notes urging the rookies to explain a point more clearly or discipline a wayward student).

HuffPost

They often need the freedom to run through a range of ideas to explain a point, and they'll do so only if at the end, they can backtrack and take a few off the table.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Someone in the crowd sighed audibly when Mr. Lovitz, in explaining a point of law, noted that unicorns weren't real.

The New York Times

The surgeon looks up gravely from the operation he is performing, holding a blood-spattered scalpel like a pen as he explains a point to the audience of medical students.

The Guardian - Arts

The Liverpool manager offered several valid reasons for Premier League mediocrity in Europe before kick-off but only one explained a point against poor Swiss opponents: their lack of quality in front of goal.

The Guardian - Sport

In Tanzania's parliament not too long ago, a female MP and former minister was busy explaining a point about how development should become contagious so that "the more we spread out, the more our neighbours should get ready".

BBC

Teachers need to be respectful, even when a child still doesn't get it after you've explained a point repeatedly.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain a point", ensure you provide sufficient context so the audience can easily follow your reasoning. Avoid jargon or technical terms unless your audience is familiar with them.

Common error

Avoid using overly complex language or convoluted sentence structures when you "explain a point". Clarity and conciseness are key to effective communication. Aim for simplicity to ensure your audience grasps the core idea.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain a point" functions primarily as a verb phrase used to describe the action of clarifying or elaborating on a specific idea or argument. It indicates a need for further understanding or detail. Ludwig AI confirms this is a correct and commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

23%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "explain a point" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to request clarification or elaboration. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's suitable for various contexts, especially in News & Media and scientific discussions. While there are several alternative phrases such as "clarify an idea" or "elaborate on a concept", remember to provide sufficient context and avoid jargon for effective communication. The phrase maintains a neutral register and is helpful in improving understanding through detailed explanations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify an idea

Focuses on making the idea clearer.

elaborate on a concept

Emphasizes expanding on the details of the concept.

expound on an issue

Implies a more detailed and formal explanation of the issue.

illustrate a subject

Focuses on providing examples to make the subject easier to understand.

shed light on a topic

Suggests revealing new or hidden information about the topic.

detail a matter

Highlights providing specific details about the matter.

interpret a theme

Focuses on explaining the meaning or significance of the theme.

demystify a subject

Implies removing confusion or complexity from the subject.

break down an argument

Emphasizes analyzing the argument into smaller, understandable parts.

spell out the details

Focuses on providing very explicit and clear details.

FAQs

How can I use "explain a point" in a sentence?

You can use "explain a point" when you want someone to clarify or elaborate on something. For example, "Could you please explain your point about the budget cuts?"

What are some alternatives to saying "explain a point"?

Alternatives include "clarify an idea", "elaborate on a concept", or "expound on an issue", depending on the context.

Is it better to "explain a point" or "explain the point"?

"Explain a point" is generally used when discussing one of several ideas. "Explain the point" is used when referring to a specific, already identified idea.

What's the difference between "explain a point" and "making a point"?

"Explain a point" refers to clarifying or elaborating on an existing idea, while "making a point" refers to introducing or asserting a new idea or argument.