explain properly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explain properly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want someone to explain something in detail, or to do so in a clear manner. For example: "Please explain properly how to use this new software."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

They were all too upset to explain properly.

The Guardian

"At a national level we need to explain properly the challenges and benefits of Europe".

The Guardian

Yet he fails to explain properly why this might be.The last section gauges hard-wired levels of altruism.

The Economist

"But when they came back to take cell samples, they didn't explain properly to the Lackses what was going on," says Skloot.

The Guardian

It also told companies to explain properly why the amount paid to the chief executive was justified each year instead of referring to pay schemes set down beforehand.

The Guardian - Business

Poor Simon, who looked like a patient man who would love to sit you down and explain properly, had to bang away tasting and whisking things and passing over some crucial stages while the information flashed across our screens.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

You need to be sure it's been explained properly to the jury".

The Guardian

Handled carefully, explained properly, executed fairly, they might have succeeded in their aim.

The Guardian

But certainly the law was rushed through without being explained properly to those affected.

The Economist

Third, experience has shown that people will comply with drug regimes if they are explained properly.

The Economist

So this is all -- just so you understand, these papers -- because I'm not sure that was explained properly.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions or guidance, use "explain properly" to ensure the audience fully understands the process or concept. This helps prevent errors and promotes effective learning.

Common error

Avoid using jargon or overly technical language when trying to "explain properly". Simplify your language to match the audience's level of understanding to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain properly" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying the verb "explain", indicating how the action of explaining should be performed. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

28%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explain properly" is a common and grammatically sound way to emphasize the need for clear and comprehensive explanations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific and academic writing. While alternatives like "explain thoroughly" or "explain clearly" exist, "explain properly" strikes a balance between formality and accessibility, making it a versatile choice for various communication scenarios. Remember to avoid jargon and tailor your language to your audience when aiming to "explain properly".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explain thoroughly

Emphasizes the completeness and depth of the explanation.

explain accurately

Switches the focus to the correctness and truthfulness of the explanation.

explain correctly

Similar to 'accurately', focusing on the factual correctness of the explanation.

explain effectively

Highlights the successful communication and understanding achieved through the explanation.

explain adequately

Replaces 'properly' with 'adequately', focusing on meeting a minimum requirement for explanation.

explain sufficiently

Similar to 'adequately', suggesting that the explanation is enough to meet a certain purpose.

explain satisfactorily

Indicates that the explanation meets the expectations or needs of the audience.

explain carefully

Focuses on the attention to detail and precision in the way the explanation is delivered.

give a clear explanation

This option uses an alternative structure that puts emphasis on the clarity of the explanation

elucidate effectively

Uses a more formal term, 'elucidate', to emphasize the act of making something clear and understandable.

FAQs

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

You can use "explain properly" to emphasize the need for a clear and thorough explanation. For example, "The teacher needs to "explain properly" the concepts to the students".

What can I say instead of "explain properly"?

Alternatives include "explain thoroughly", "explain clearly", or "explain in detail" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "explain properly" or "properly explain"?

"Explain properly" is more common and natural-sounding. While "properly explain" isn't grammatically incorrect, it's less frequently used. Ludwig confirms that "explain properly" is the standard phrasing.

What's the difference between "explain properly" and "explain adequately"?

"Explain properly" suggests a comprehensive and easily understood explanation. "Explain adequately", like "explain adequately", implies that the explanation meets the minimum requirements but may not be as thorough or clear.