explains a lot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explains a lot" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express that something explains why a situation is the way it is. For example: "After reading what he went through, it explains a lot about why he is so guarded."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Which explains a lot.

Independent

It explains a lot.

The New Yorker

This explains a lot.

Independent

Explains a lot really.

The Guardian

Habituation explains a lot.

The Guardian - Opinion

I feel that explains a lot.

Independent

Beane's explanation explains a lot.

The New York Times - Sports

This principle explains a lot.

The New York Times

And that explains a lot.

The Washington Post

He thinks that explains a lot.

The Guardian - Music

If so, that explains a lot.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "explains a lot" when you want to succinctly convey that something provides a significant understanding of a situation. For example, "His difficult childhood explains a lot about his current behavior."

Common error

While effective, "explains a lot" can become repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "sheds light on" or "provides context" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explains a lot" functions as a comment clause. It is used to convey that a preceding statement or situation provides significant understanding or clarification regarding something. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Academia

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "explains a lot" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to indicate that something provides significant clarification or understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate in a variety of contexts, ranging from news articles to academic discussions. While very versatile, it is best to vary your language by using synonyms like ""sheds light on"" or "provides context" to maintain reader engagement. Its frequent use in news and media suggests a neutral register, although it can be adapted for both formal and informal settings. The phrase is most often employed to express insight, justify a situation, or to make something more comprehensible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sheds light on

Indicates something clarifies or reveals information.

clarifies much

Emphasizes the act of making something understandable.

elucidates greatly

Highlights the act of making something clear and comprehensive.

offers insight

Suggests a deeper understanding is provided.

makes understandable

Focuses on the result of becoming clear.

provides context

Emphasizes the background information provided.

gives reason

Highlights providing a justification or cause.

accounts for

Focuses on explaining the cause or origin.

justifies significantly

Emphasizes providing a strong justification.

resolves ambiguity

Highlights the removal of uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "explains a lot" in a sentence?

Use "explains a lot" to indicate that something provides significant clarification or understanding. For example: "The company's recent financial troubles "sheds light on" why they are downsizing."

What can I say instead of "explains a lot"?

You can use alternatives like "clarifies much", "elucidates greatly", or "offers insight" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "explains a lot" or "explain a lot"?

"Explains a lot" is correct when referring to a singular subject. "Explain a lot" would be used with a plural subject. For example: "These factors explain a lot."

What's the difference between "explains a lot" and "justifies significantly"?

"Explains a lot" indicates understanding or clarification, while "justifies significantly" implies providing a strong reason or excuse for something.