explain to them

USAGE SUMMARY

"explain to them" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a process of you sharing information with a group of people. For example, "I took the time to explain to them the importance of saving money for retirement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's very difficult to explain to them".

The New York Times

"I'd explain to them the benefits.

The Guardian - Tech

I've tried to explain to them why we do it.

The New York Times

Will you please come and explain to them?"' she says.

The New York Times

I need to explain to them that it's normal.

The Guardian - Sport

I had to explain to them what ASMR was.

The Guardian

"Explain to them that we're all the same inside.

The New York Times

"We are trying to explain to them our rationale".

The New York Times

"I have to explain to them that, no, it's not".

The New York Times

Then I explain to them: sorry, you are misunderstanding.

The Guardian

I explain to them about everything in the world".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain to them", consider your audience and adjust your language accordingly. Avoid jargon or complex terms when addressing those unfamiliar with the topic.

Common error

Avoid using passive voice constructions that obscure the speaker or actor. Instead of saying "It was explained to them", use the active voice: "I explained it to them".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain to them" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the act of making something understandable to a group of people. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and commonly used in written English to denote sharing information with others.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

29%

Wiki

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explain to them" is a correct and frequently used verb phrase that describes the act of making something understandable to a group. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread use. The phrase is versatile, suitable for neutral to slightly informal contexts, and commonly appears in news, scientific and wiki sources. Alternatives like "clarify for them" or "elucidate to them" can be used to fine-tune the tone. When using the phrase, ensure clarity and tailor your language to your audience for optimal comprehension. Avoid passive constructions like "it was explained to them" for a more direct and engaging style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify for them

Focuses on making something clearer, implying a simplification of complex information.

elucidate to them

A more formal way of saying explain, often used in academic or professional settings.

walk them through

Suggests a step-by-step explanation, often used for processes or procedures.

break it down for them

Implies simplifying complex information into smaller, more digestible parts.

give them the rundown

An informal way of providing a summary or overview of something.

shed light on it for them

Metaphorically emphasizes clarifying something previously unclear or unknown.

spell it out for them

Implies making something very clear, possibly due to the listener's lack of understanding.

lay it out for them

Suggests presenting information in an organized and structured manner.

get the message across to them

Focuses on successfully conveying a specific point or idea.

make them understand

Emphasizes ensuring comprehension rather than simply providing information.

FAQs

How can I use "explain to them" in a sentence?

You can use "explain to them" to describe the act of making something clear or understandable to a group of people. For instance, "I had to explain to them the new safety protocols".

What are some alternatives to "explain to them"?

Alternatives include "clarify for them", "elucidate to them", or "walk them through", depending on the specific context and level of formality you want to convey.

Is it better to say "explain it to them" or "explain to them it"?

"Explain it to them" is the more common and grammatically sound construction. The alternative, "explain to them it", is less natural and could sound awkward.

What's the difference between "explain to them" and "describe to them"?

"Explain to them" focuses on making something understandable, often by providing reasons or causes. "Describe to them", on the other hand, focuses on giving a detailed account of something, often appealing to the senses. So you would "explain to them" a process and "describe to them" a scene.