explain again that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explain again that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want someone to clarify or reiterate a point that has already been made. Example: "Could you explain again that process for me? I want to make sure I understand it fully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"Nancy," he'd begin, and then explain again that 60 votes are required to pass such a bill in the Senate.

The Washington Post

I try very hard to keep my tone measured as I explain again that the problem is with his left ear.

The Washington Post

Gibbs will then have to explain — again — that no, her son, Ryan Perrilloux, has not seen his N.F.L. career end before it truly began.

The New York Times - Sports

At first, they would nod understandingly, but later they would ask me for salt, cooking oil, or rice, or for permission to leave the camp, and I would have to explain again that I had no authority in these matters.

The New Yorker

Hello, she smiles, her eyes wide and friendly and although I have already explained on the telephone, I explain again that I'm here because there are rumours she has given up writing for good.

The Guardian - Books

And I've come undone at the thought of having to explain, again, that the overwhelming majority of Muslims being spied on, monitored, tracked and, in the case of 16 year old US citizen Abdulrahman Awlaki, killed – by federal, state and local agencies- are innocent of any wrongdoing.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

And I explained again that the book wasn't like that.

The New Yorker

Last year, Manchester United's managing director, Richard Arnold, explained again that his club is "the biggest TV show in the world".

The Guardian - Sport

He explained again that they should bear in mind what the food might cost in another restaurant.

The New Yorker

In the third book, Chapter 19 explains, again, that Miss Zarves teaches on the nineteenth story, which does not exist.

The New Yorker

I explained again that I just wanted one and she explained that the bank didn't have that, just the combinations she had mentioned.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain again that", ensure the context makes it clear what "that" refers to. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the concept or idea you need clarified.

Common error

Avoid using "explain again that" when the subject requiring explanation is unclear. Instead of saying "explain again that", be specific: "explain again that financial model", or "explain again that chemical reaction".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain again that" functions as a request for clarification or reiteration. It prompts someone to provide a further explanation of something previously mentioned. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explain again that" is a grammatically correct and neutrally-toned request for clarification or reiteration. As confirmed by Ludwig, it’s used to seek a better understanding of a previously mentioned concept, though it is important to ensure that the subject of clarification is unambiguous. While commonly found in news, academic, and business contexts, alternative phrases like "reiterate that" or "could you elaborate" may be more appropriate depending on the desired level of formality. While "explain again that" is usable and understandable, keep in mind alternatives when writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Can you re-explain that

A more concise way of asking for another explanation.

explain that one more time

Requests another explanation, specifying the number of times.

repeat that explanation

Directly asks for the explanation to be repeated.

clarify that again

Emphasizes making something clearer rather than a simple repetition.

reiterate that

Focuses on repeating a previously stated point, differing slightly from seeking clarification.

go over that again

Implies reviewing or repeating a process or explanation.

say that again

A more direct and simple request for repetition, often used in informal contexts.

walk me through that again

Suggests a step-by-step explanation is needed.

could you elaborate on that

Asks for more detail and expansion on a topic rather than a restatement.

rephrase that

Implies changing the wording for better understanding, not just repeating.

FAQs

How can I use "explain again that" in a sentence?

You can use "explain again that" when you need someone to clarify something they've already mentioned. For example, "Could you "explain again that" process?"

What's a more formal way to say "explain again that"?

In formal settings, you might prefer phrases like "could you "reiterate that"" or "could you "clarify that again"" to maintain a professional tone.

What can I say instead of "explain again that" in casual conversation?

In casual conversations, you can use phrases like "say that again?" or "Can you re-explain that?" for a more relaxed tone.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "explain again that"?

It might be inappropriate if you've already asked for the same explanation multiple times, as it could imply impatience or a lack of understanding on your part. Try phrasing your request differently or seeking alternative resources.