explain according to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explain according to" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you want to clarify something based on a specific source or perspective. For example, "Explain according to the guidelines provided in the manual." Alternative expressions include "explain based on" and "explain in terms of."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

This would also explain, according to some, their longevity, though others have attributed it to their eating habits, which I will come to in a moment.

The New Yorker

When communicating with patients, for example, genetic counselors must tailor the science they explain according to what the patient really needs to know and her or his level of understanding.

Science Magazine

A paper descrIfing the researColdaSpotblished originatedil 20 in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

Huffington Post

These assays did not reveal substantial differences in the protein expression levels that would explain, according to our previous experience [ 19, 37, 39], the observed differences in plasminogen activation.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Ancient architecture and art are usually understood and explained according to their purpose or cultural function.

The New York Times - Travel

The next slide explained, "According to this woman's answers to our survey question, there was nothing to note about her race….

The New Yorker

As Ms. Dandois explained, "According to Roman mythology, a term was the god who marked and protected the boundaries of a person's fields.

The New York Times - Arts

This so-called Compton effect can be explained, according to classical mechanics, as an elastic collision of two particles comparable to the collision of two billiard balls.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One of the men handed Mr. Castro three manila envelopes stuffed with $12,000 in cash and explained, according to a criminal complaint, "Consider this a contribution".

The New York Times

This party explains, according to several experts, the heightened use of social media for fun and for sharing information about what is happening on Mexico's streets.

The New York Times

Moreover, the upsurge in violence in Argentina beginning in the late 1990s has been explained according to the severe decline of the national economy and the political system.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain according to", ensure that the source or perspective you are referencing is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Explain the economic downturn according to Keynesian theory."

Common error

Avoid using "explain according to" without specifying the source or framework. Instead of saying "The data can be explained according to research", be specific: "The data can be "explained according to Smith's study" published in 2020."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain according to" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces the perspective or source from which an explanation is derived. It specifies the framework through which something is being understood. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explain according to" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to specify the source or perspective of an explanation. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its frequency is rare. It appears most commonly in science, news, and encyclopedic contexts, signaling a relatively formal or neutral tone. When using this phrase, clarity and specificity are key; always ensure you identify the source to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "explain based on" or "explain with reference to" can offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explain based on

Replaces "according to" with "based on", emphasizing the foundation upon which the explanation rests.

explain in light of

Substitutes "according to" with "in light of", highlighting the context or information that illuminates the explanation.

explain with reference to

Emphasizes the use of specific sources or concepts to provide an explanation.

explain by reference to

Changes the order of words to focus on how it will be explained.

justify with

Focuses on providing a rationale or defense using supporting evidence.

elucidate concerning

A more formal way to say "make clear about".

clarify considering

Offers a similar clarification or explanation that is also regarding another aspect.

interpret through

Indicates that the explanation involves understanding something from a particular point of view.

account for in terms of

This explains something in relation to something else.

attribute to

Attributes the reason for something to a given cause.

FAQs

How can I use "explain according to" in a sentence?

Use "explain according to" to present information or interpretations that are based on a specific source, theory, or individual's viewpoint. For example, "Explain the results according to the report" or "Explain the character's motivations according to the author's notes".

What are some alternatives to "explain according to"?

You can use alternatives like "explain based on", "explain in light of", or "explain with reference to" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify the source when using "explain according to"?

While not always grammatically required, it is best practice to specify the source to ensure clarity and credibility, especially in academic or professional writing. Omitting the source may lead to ambiguity.

What's the difference between "explain according to" and "explain based on"?

"Explain according to" typically implies a direct reference to a specific authority or source. "Explain based on" suggests a broader foundation of evidence or reasoning, not necessarily tied to a single source. The choice depends on whether you're citing a specific viewpoint or drawing from a general understanding.