explain the matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explain the matter" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used when someone is asking for a more detailed or thorough explanation of a situation or topic. Example: "Can you please explain the matter to me? I don't quite understand what's going on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

JODL: I will explain the matter in a few words.

Yale University

I think the Speaker needs to explain the matter".

The Guardian

But he asserts that quantum mechanics can explain the matter.

Nature

Mr. Obama was asked by reporters to explain the matter on Saturday in London.

The New York Times

Mr. Honda, trying to explain the matter, spoke of the "shameful tendency in Japan to target the weak".

The New York Times

A non-zero θ13 opens the possibility to study CP violation in the neutrino sector which could help explain the matter anti-matter asymmetry in the Universe.

Nuclear Physics B - Proceedings Supplements

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

In the standard neutrino 3-flavour mixing paradigm, this parameter encapsulates a possibility of a CP violation in the lepton sector that in turn could help explain the matter-antimatter asymmetry in the universe.

Nuclear and Particle Physics Proceedings

If this were true, it would provide a way to explain the matter-antimatter asymmetry in the universe: it would allow the existence of new and very heavy neutrinos that would have been around only after the Big Bang, and could have decayed preferentially into matter instead of antimatter.

University of California, Berkeley

Gay families are just one part of this changing landscape, which may explain the matter-of-fact attitude registered in a 2006 poll in which 82 percent of Dutch respondents said they backed same-sex marriages — the highest approval rate in the European Union.

The New York Times

"We recognise that it is important that the SAPS should have the opportunity to explain the matters which have raised our concern.

Independent

Seeing the decay would also help explain the matter-antimatter imbalance in the universe.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain the matter", ensure the context requires a comprehensive explanation rather than a brief summary. This phrase suggests a deeper dive into the details.

Common error

Avoid using "explain the matter" when a simple clarification suffices. For instance, instead of saying "explain the matter" about a minor scheduling change, opt for a more direct phrasing like "let me clarify the change".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain the matter" functions as a request or directive for a comprehensive explanation. It signals a need for clarity and detailed information regarding a particular issue. Examples on Ludwig show its use in various contexts, supporting its grammatical function.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

27%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explain the matter" is a grammatically correct phrase commonly used to request a detailed explanation of a situation. Ludwig AI indicates that its usage spans across diverse contexts such as News & Media, Science, and Academia, lending itself to both neutral and formal settings. While versatile, it's best employed when a comprehensive account is necessary, rather than a simple clarification. Alternatives like "clarify the situation" or "elucidate the issue" offer nuanced ways to convey the same meaning, depending on the specific context. Remember to avoid overusing the phrase in simple scenarios where a direct clarification suffices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify the situation

Emphasizes making a situation clearer and easier to understand, focusing on removing confusion.

elucidate the issue

Suggests a more formal and detailed explanation, often used in academic or professional contexts.

shed light on the subject

Implies revealing new information or perspectives to enhance understanding.

provide details about it

Focuses on offering specific information to give a fuller picture.

give an account of it

Highlights the act of narrating or describing something in a structured way.

spell it out

Indicates a need for a very clear and simple explanation, often when addressing someone who is struggling to understand.

break it down

Suggests simplifying complex information into smaller, more manageable parts.

walk me through it

Asks for a step-by-step explanation, often used when learning a process.

run it by me

Implies a quick explanation or summary, often to get feedback or approval.

expound on that

Calls for a more elaborate and comprehensive explanation, delving into greater depth.

FAQs

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

You can use "explain the matter" when you need someone to provide a detailed explanation of a situation. For example, "The CEO was summoned to "explain the matter" to the board of directors".

What can I say instead of "explain the matter"?

You can use alternatives like "clarify the situation", "elucidate the issue", or "provide details about it" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "explain the matter"?

It's appropriate to use "explain the matter" when the subject requires a thorough and detailed explanation, typically in formal or serious contexts. It is suitable when conveying the need for someone to provide a comprehensive account or clarification of something.

What's the difference between "explain the matter" and "explain the situation"?

"Explain the matter" often implies a more formal or serious subject, while "explain the situation" is generally more neutral and can apply to a broader range of circumstances. You might "explain the matter" of a legal dispute, but "explain the situation" regarding a delayed flight.