explain your answer

USAGE SUMMARY

"explain your answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want the reader of a document to explain their reasoning or the logic behind a particular answer. For example, "Please select the option that best answers the question. Explain your answer in the space provided below."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Explain your answer.

The New York Times

"Explain your answer". No, thank you.

The New York Times - Magazine

Using ideas and inferences gleaned from this article, explain your answer in a paragraph.

The New York Times

Use at least two examples from the article to explain your answer.

The New York Times

Explain your answer for each by noting which of the five components it has and how each part works".

The New York Times

Explain your answer.   5.

International Journal of STEM Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

NOTE: Don't forget to indicate your name, staple your work, and always explain your answers to the problem sets.

Yale University

Upon entering class, students respond to the following prompt in their journals (also written on the board prior to class): "Assess whether you think each of these three statements is true or false, and briefly explain your answers".

The New York Times

Explain your answers".

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Slowly explain your answers to their questions.

WikiHow

Resist the temptation to explain your answers or to go into details, although the polygrapher may try to get you to do so.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always provide sufficient context when asking someone to "explain your answer". This will help ensure their explanation is relevant and addresses the core of the question.

Common error

Avoid assuming the person you're asking to "explain your answer" has the same level of understanding as you. Encourage them to provide a comprehensive explanation, even if some aspects seem obvious to you.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain your answer" serves as an imperative, directly instructing someone to provide a rationale or clarification for their response. Ludwig examples show it used in academic, news, and general contexts, indicating broad applicability. The Ludwig AI confirms its correctness in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explain your answer" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that prompts clarification or justification for a response. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in written English. It finds common usage in academic, scientific, and news-related contexts. When using this phrase, remember to provide sufficient context and be mindful of potential differences in understanding to elicit the most comprehensive explanation. While alternatives like "justify your response" or "elaborate on your reasoning" exist, "explain your answer" remains a versatile and direct way to encourage deeper understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explain the rationale behind your answer

Focuses on the fundamental principles that justify the provided answer.

justify your response

Emphasizes providing a rationale or defense for the given answer.

elaborate on your reasoning

Focuses on expanding the explanation of the logical steps taken.

clarify your position

Requests a clearer and more understandable explanation.

provide a detailed explanation

Highlights the need for a thorough and comprehensive answer.

defend your claim

Implies the answer may be contested and requires a strong defense.

walk me through your solution

Asks for a step-by-step explanation of how the answer was obtained.

give the reasons for your conclusion

Directs attention to the underlying reasons supporting the final answer.

break down your analysis

Suggests dissecting the answer into smaller components for clarity.

expound on your perspective

Invites a more extensive and philosophical explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "explain your answer" in a sentence?

You can use "explain your answer" when you need someone to provide reasoning or justification for a response. For example, "Choose the correct option and "explain your answer" below".

What are some alternatives to saying "explain your answer"?

Alternatives include "justify your response", "elaborate on your reasoning", or "provide a detailed explanation depending on the context".

Is it better to ask "explain your answer" or "justify your answer"?

Both "explain your answer" and "justify your answer" are correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Explain" seeks clarification, while "justify" implies a need for defending a position. Choose based on the context.

How do I prompt a more thorough explanation when asking someone to "explain your answer"?

To get a more thorough explanation, add specific instructions. For example, "Explain your answer using details and examples" or "Explain your answer in a paragraph".