explains how

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explains how" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to introduce a clause or phrase that provides an explanation or description of how something is done or works. It can be used in various contexts, including technical writing, instructional manuals, and informative articles. Example: The instruction manual explains how to assemble the furniture in detailed steps.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This tweet explains how.

Independent

Alec Wilkinson explains how.

The New Yorker

Adam Schiff explains how.

The Washington Post

This explains how.

The Washington Post

She explains how here.

The Guardian

Below, she explains how NaNoWriMo "changed lives".

The New York Times

Jen Waak explains how to set goals.

The New York Times

Dale Traxler explains how to identify genius.

The New York Times

She explains how she's doing it.

The Guardian

This video explains how Leafully works.

The New York Times

Liz Crawford explains how to reward consumers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "explains how" to introduce a clear and concise description of a process or mechanism. This phrase is effective for providing instructions or clarifying complex topics.

Common error

Avoid using "explains how" repeatedly within a short passage. Vary your phrasing by using synonyms like "details how", "describes how", or "illustrates how" to maintain reader engagement and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explains how" serves as an introductory phrase to a clause that provides a detailed account of a process or method. As evidenced by Ludwig, it is commonly used to clarify complex procedures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

24%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explains how" is a grammatically correct and very common introductory phrase used to present a detailed account of a process or method. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Academia, it serves to provide clarity and instruction. When using "explains how", ensure the subsequent explanation is clear and concise, and avoid overuse by varying your phrasing with alternatives such as "details how" or "describes how". This ensures effective communication and maintains reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

details how

Focuses on providing specific information about the process.

describes how

Offers a general account of the method.

outlines how

Emphasizes the structural aspects of the explanation.

shows how

Highlights the demonstration or evidence of the method.

clarifies how

Indicates the removal of ambiguity in understanding the method.

elucidates how

Suggests a more in-depth and enlightening explanation.

illustrates how

Uses examples to make the explanation more vivid.

demonstrates how

Highlights the practical application and proof of the method.

reveals how

Suggests the unveiling of a previously unknown method.

interprets how

Focuses on providing an understanding or meaning of the method.

FAQs

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

Use "explains how" to introduce a clause that details a process or provides instructions. For example, "The manual "explains how" to assemble the device".

What are some alternatives to "explains how"?

You can use alternatives such as "details how", "describes how", or "illustrates how" depending on the context and the level of detail you want to convey.

Is it better to use "explains how" or "shows how"?

Both ""explains how"" and "shows how" are correct, but ""explains how"" is more formal and suitable for technical or instructional contexts, while "shows how" often implies a demonstration or example.

What's the difference between "explains how" and "describes how"?

"Explains how" focuses on clarifying the method or process, whereas "describes how" offers a more general account or overview. The choice depends on whether you need to clarify a specific procedure or provide a general understanding.