explain whether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explain whether" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to ask someone to explain the reasoning behind a decision or opinion. For example: "Can you explain whether the delay in delivery was due to a lack of resources or some other factor?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Such proceedings are suits that force the government to explain whether people are being held lawfully.

The New York Times

It falls to Comey to explain whether the FBI ought to continue in that role.

The Guardian

If it rejects that, it will have to explain whether it would borrow more.

The Guardian

He did not explain whether his offer included immunity from prosecution for war crimes.

The New York Times

The Board of Education study made no attempt to explain whether adults' anxieties affected children.

The New York Times

The Home Office is yet to explain whether the reorganisation will address this problem.

The Guardian

Security wouldn't confirm, deny, or explain whether tickets were for sale or free.

The New Yorker

Rather than renew it without debate, the government should explain whether it is really necessary.

The New York Times

The company did not explain whether it had a NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission licence to operate in the city.

The Guardian

They said they would press him to explain whether North Korea planned to return to nuclear disarmament talks.

The New York Times

Later, Justice Kennedy challenged Mr. Boies to explain whether there was a uniform standard for counting votes in Florida.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, pair "explain whether" with precise language to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "explain whether the project is on track", specify "explain whether the project is on track according to the original timeline and budget".

Common error

Avoid using "explain whether" when a simple yes or no answer suffices. For instance, instead of "explain whether you finished the task", ask "did you finish the task?" This prevents unnecessary complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain whether" functions as an interrogative phrase used to solicit clarification or justification regarding a specific condition or choice. As shown by Ludwig, it prompts for a reasoned response concerning the truth or validity of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

47%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explain whether" is a common and grammatically sound way to request clarification or justification. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples across various contexts, including News & Media and Science. When using "explain whether", it's essential to ensure the context involves distinct possibilities and to avoid overuse in simple yes/no questions. Alternatives like "clarify if" or "indicate whether" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "explain whether" to seek detailed and reasoned explanations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify if

Focuses on making something clearer, highlighting the need for removal of ambiguity.

justify if

Emphasizes the need to provide a rationale or defense for an action or decision.

indicate whether

Implies a need to show or point out something relevant.

elucidate if

Suggests a more detailed and illuminating explanation is required.

describe if

Focuses on providing a detailed account or depiction.

expound on whether

Implies a more thorough and elaborate explanation.

detail if

Focuses on providing specific details and information.

account for whether

Highlights the need to provide a reason or explanation for something.

state if

Suggests a simple declaration or confirmation is sufficient.

resolve whether

Emphasizes the need to find a definite answer or solution.

FAQs

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

The phrase "explain whether" is used to request clarification or justification regarding a condition or situation. For example, "Could you explain whether the new policy affects existing contracts?"

What are some alternatives to "explain whether"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "clarify if", "indicate whether", or "justify if". Each alternative shifts the focus slightly, but maintains the core meaning.

Is it always necessary to use "explain whether" instead of a simpler question?

No, "explain whether" is most effective when there are multiple possible reasons or conditions to consider. For simple yes/no questions, a direct inquiry is often more appropriate.

What's the difference between "explain whether" and "explain why"?

"Explain why" seeks the reasons behind something, while "explain whether" seeks clarification on a condition or choice between possibilities. For instance, "explain why the project failed" versus "explain whether the project failed due to lack of resources or poor planning".