explain the need

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explain the need" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you are discussing a situation where there is a need for explanation or clarification. For example, "The teacher asked the student to explain the need for additional resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

He couldn't really explain the need.

The New York Times

That might explain the need for remedial math among college freshmen.

The New York Times

The gargantuan kitchen may explain the need for so many bathrooms.

The New York Times

The report criticized the Energy Department's effort to explain the need for polygraphs to employees as "ineffectual".

The New York Times

It should also make the regulator fully independent and explain the need for reform to a sceptical public.

The Economist

He alone has a fleeting opportunity to instigate fundamental change, and the ability to explain the need for it to the public.

The Guardian

Similarly, Abraham Lincoln, a gifted writer and communicator, was ideally suited to explain the need and purpose of the Civil War to the citizens of the Northern states.

The New York Times

He and Mr Fillon have tried to explain the need for France to preserve benefits for tomorrow's pensioners by lengthening working life.

The Economist

He was, as usual, following his instincts, bending unwritten rules, which may, of course, partly explain the need for the question.

The New York Times - Sports

By referring to the London bombings to explain the need for greater security, they fail to mention that none of the 7/7 attackers covered their face, hid behind a niqab or even a hood.

The Guardian

Top tips: Address the criteria directly and clearly and don't assume that the funder will know the value of your work - explain the need that your projects meets and how you will address it.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain the need", be specific about the context and the reasons behind the need. Avoid vague language and provide concrete examples to support your explanation.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that there is a need without providing sufficient context or specific details. Instead of saying "We need to improve our communication," explain the specific communication challenges and why they require attention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain the need" functions as a verbal phrase, typically used to introduce or elaborate on the reasons or justifications behind a particular requirement or necessity. As evidenced by Ludwig, it serves to provide clarity and understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

56%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explain the need" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves to introduce the reasons or justifications behind a specific requirement or necessity. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, the phrase aims to inform and persuade, clarifying why something is essential. To effectively use this phrase, specificity and concrete examples are crucial. Related alternatives include "justify the requirement" and "elucidate the necessity". Remember to avoid overgeneralizing the need without sufficient context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify the rationale

This option concentrates on making the underlying reasons and principles clear.

outline the reasons

This implies presenting a structured overview of the reasons behind something.

justify the requirement

This alternative focuses on providing a reason or excuse for the requirement.

spell out the reasons for

This suggests explaining the reasons in a very clear and detailed manner.

detail the justification

This suggests providing a comprehensive explanation of why something is justified.

elucidate the necessity

This phrase emphasizes clarifying and highlighting why something is essential.

present the basis for

This alternative focuses on showing the foundation or grounds for something.

demonstrate the importance

This shifts the focus to showing why something is significant and valuable.

illustrate the significance

This emphasizes making the importance of something clear through examples.

account for the demand

This implies explaining the reasons behind a particular demand or requirement.

FAQs

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

You can use "explain the need" to introduce the reasons why something is necessary or important. For example, "The manager had to explain the need for budget cuts to the team".

What are some alternatives to "explain the need"?

Alternatives include "justify the requirement", "elucidate the necessity", or "clarify the rationale", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "explain the need for" or just "explain the need"?

Both are correct, but "explain the need for" is often more specific. For example, "explain the need for new equipment" is more precise than simply "explain the need".

How do I effectively "explain the need" in a proposal?

In a proposal, clearly state the problem you are addressing, provide evidence to support the existence of the problem, and then "explain the need" for your proposed solution. Be specific and use data to back up your claims.