explain the differences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explain the differences" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking someone to clarify or outline the distinctions between two or more items, concepts, or ideas. Example: "In your essay, please explain the differences between renewable and non-renewable energy sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

How do biologists explain the differences between different populations of humans?

Huffington Post

The differential course of the maturation of different neurotransmitter systems may explain the differences.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

A few definitions help to explain the differences in speed.

The New York Times - Tech

Ask him or her to explain the differences.

The New York Times

The scientists looked for factors that could explain the differences.

The New York Times - Science

However, they did not explain the differences of mechanical behaviour.

Bubbles in Food 2 Novelty, Health and Luxury

Neither spending nor levels of local deprivation explain the differences.

The Economist

But those issues don't fully explain the differences in performance.

The New York Times

Another recent survey by Teenage Research Unlimited helps explain the differences.

The New York Times

Helpful tags explain the differences between jalapeño, Scotch bonnet and poblano peppers, along with suggested uses.

The New York Times - Food

He smiles when asked to explain the differences in education either side of the DMZ.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain the differences", ensure you provide sufficient context for the reader to understand what items or concepts are being compared. Be specific about the aspects being differentiated to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid stating "explain the differences" without indicating which differences are relevant. Always specify the criteria or categories used to distinguish between the subjects being compared to make your explanation focused and meaningful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain the differences" functions as a request or instruction for clarification. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, indicating its role in seeking a detailed account of the dissimilarities between two or more entities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

33%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explain the differences" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to request clarification on the dissimilarities between subjects. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage across diverse contexts such as news, science, and academia. The phrase's versatility is highlighted through various alternatives like "elucidate the differences" or "clarify the distinctions", each providing a unique nuance. To ensure effective communication, specify the differences to avoid overgeneralization. Whether you're writing a formal report or a casual explanation, understanding these nuances ensures precision and clarity in your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

elucidate the differences

Emphasizes providing clarity and deeper understanding of the distinctions.

clarify the distinctions

Highlights the act of making the differences more understandable and apparent.

explicate the variations

Focuses on a detailed and thorough explanation of the different forms or instances.

interpret the differences

Focuses on understanding and conveying the meaning or significance of the variations.

outline the variations

Suggests providing a structured overview of the differences.

break down the contrasts

Suggests simplifying complex differences into more understandable components.

detail the dissimilarities

Focuses on providing a comprehensive account of how things are not alike.

analyze the disparities

Emphasizes a detailed examination of the inequalities or differences.

expound on the discrepancies

Highlights expanding on and elaborating the inconsistencies or disagreements.

compare and contrast

Involves a systematic examination of similarities and differences.

FAQs

How can I use "explain the differences" in a sentence?

You can use "explain the differences" when you want someone to clarify the distinctions between two or more things. For example: "Can you explain the differences between a stockbroker, an investment advisor, and a financial planner?"

What is a formal alternative to "explain the differences"?

In a formal context, you might use phrases like "elucidate the differences" or "clarify the distinctions" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "explain the differences" and "describe the differences"?

"Explain the differences" implies providing reasons or causes for the variations, while "describe the differences" simply requires detailing how they are not alike.

Is it better to "explain the differences" or "analyze the differences"?

It depends on the context. "Explain the differences" is suitable for straightforward clarifications. "Analyze the differences" is more appropriate when a deeper, more critical examination is needed.