explain it all

USAGE SUMMARY

"explain it all" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it when you want to ask someone to give a complete explanation of a particular topic or idea. For example, "Can you explain it all in detail?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

But sex is always changing, and, though porn can't explain it all, its role can't be ruled out, either.

The New Yorker

That distinction may explain it all".

The New York Times - Books

"And we cannot explain it all".

The New York Times

A. I did explain it all.

The New York Times

We will explain it all here.

The New York Times

Laptops are provided to explain it all to visitors.

The New York Times - Arts

The tagline runs: "The one movie to explain it all".

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

You sense danger even if you can't explain it … All three actors are tremendous".

The Guardian - Film

"If anyone asks me about it, I can explain it all," Zaq said.

Vice

And there is no shortage of experts eager to explain it all and to remind clinicians to, well, be compassionate.

The New York Times

"What I will miss most about Artyom was his ability to explain it all to me".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain it all", ensure that the context implies a need for comprehensive understanding, not just a summary or overview.

Common error

Avoid using "explain it all" when a simpler explanation suffices. Using it for trivial matters can sound unnecessarily verbose or even condescending.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain it all" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a request or an offer to provide a comprehensive explanation. It encapsulates the idea of leaving no detail unaddressed. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explain it all" is a versatile phrase used to convey the need for or willingness to provide a complete and detailed explanation. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and general conversation. While its frequency makes it suitable for most situations, avoid overuse in trivial contexts. Consider alternative phrases like "provide a thorough explanation" in more formal settings. Remember to balance thoroughness with clarity to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provide a thorough explanation

Highlights the depth and completeness of the explanation.

fully explain the matter

Highlights the completeness of the explanation regarding a specific issue.

elucidate everything

Focuses on clarifying complex subjects, implying a more detailed explanation.

offer a detailed account

Stresses the inclusion of many specifics in the explanation.

detail the whole situation

Emphasizes providing specific facts and circumstances.

comprehensively clarify

Focuses on making something understandable through a thorough explanation.

break down every aspect

Suggests a structured, step-by-step explanation.

give a full account of

Implies a complete and thorough recounting of events.

spell out the complete story

Stresses clarity and simplicity in the explanation.

present the entire picture

Focuses on giving a holistic view.

FAQs

How can I use "explain it all" in a sentence?

You can use "explain it all" when requesting a comprehensive explanation. For example, "Could you "explain it all" to me step by step?"

What's a formal way to say "explain it all"?

In a formal context, consider using phrases like "provide a detailed explanation" or "elucidate the matter fully" for a more professional tone.

What can I say instead of "explain it all" in casual conversation?

For casual conversations, try using phrases such as "walk me through it", "tell me everything", or "give me the full story".

Is it correct to use "explain all of it" instead of "explain it all"?

While "explain all of it" is grammatically correct, ""explain it all"" is more concise and commonly used, making it the preferred choice in most situations.