explained to me that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explained to me that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to convey that someone provided information or clarification to you about a specific topic or situation. Example: "She explained to me that the meeting had been rescheduled for next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It was this risk of its becoming unpredictable, Hensel later explained to me, that made a burnout unwise.

The New York Times - Magazine

He explained to me that he has reservations about MOOCs.

The New Yorker

You should have explained to me that stealing was wrong.

The New York Times

Then someone explained to me that this wasn't meant literally.

The Guardian - Opinion

He explained to me that he was wary of the press.

The New Yorker

Tariq Aziz, Saddam's Deputy Prime Minister, explained to me that it was all about love.

The New Yorker

"People explained to me that it was more an expression of love".

The Guardian - Sport

"But he explained to me that it just isn't his thing.

The New York Times

One engineer at Innovation Works explained to me that success didn't yet require innovation.

The New York Times - Magazine

"They explained to me that I don't need a $1,200-a-month payment," she said.

The New York Times

"It was explained to me that this is a gift," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your vocabulary by using alternatives like "informed me that" or "told me" to avoid repetition and maintain reader engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "explained to me that" when you can directly state the information. Over-reliance can make your writing seem indirect and less impactful. For example, instead of "It was explained to me that the deadline was moved," try "I learned that the deadline was moved."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explained to me that" functions as a reporting clause, introducing information that someone has clarified or made understandable. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a valid and commonly used construction for conveying received knowledge. The function is to attribute the information to a specific source, emphasizing the act of clarification.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explained to me that" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce information that has been clarified by someone else. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively attributes the explanation to a specific source. While versatile, writers should be mindful of overusing passive voice and may consider alternatives like "told me that" or "informed me that" for a more direct tone. Predominantly found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts, this phrase serves to inform while crediting the source of understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

told me that

This is a more direct and less formal alternative.

informed me that

This option suggests a more formal and official communication.

related to me that

This implies a narrative or story being shared.

conveyed to me that

This suggests the information was passed indirectly.

communicated to me that

This is a broader term for sharing information.

disclosed to me that

This indicates previously unknown information was revealed.

revealed to me that

This suggests a dramatic unveiling of information.

mentioned to me that

This implies a casual or brief sharing of information.

pointed out to me that

This highlights a specific detail or fact.

clarified for me that

This indicates a simplification or explanation of something previously unclear.

FAQs

What's a simpler way to say "explained to me that"?

You can use phrases like "told me that" or "informed me that". These alternatives are often more direct and can make your writing more concise.

How can I use "explained to me that" in a sentence?

Use "explained to me that" to introduce information you received from someone else. For example, "The doctor "explained to me that" the medication has potential side effects".

Is it always necessary to include "to me" in the phrase "explained to me that"?

Yes, including "to me" clarifies that the explanation was directed specifically at you. Omitting it can make the sentence sound impersonal or unclear.

What's the difference between ""explained to me that"" and "stated that"?

"Explained to me that" implies a level of detail and understanding being conveyed, while "stated that" simply indicates that someone made a statement, without necessarily ensuring comprehension.