explains how it works

USAGE SUMMARY

"explains how it works" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used to describe a process or mechanism, to clarify how something functions or operates, or to provide instructions. Here are two examples: - The user manual explains how the new dishwasher works, from loading the dishes to selecting the wash cycle and understanding the different buttons. - In her presentation, the scientist explained how the experiment works, highlighting the key variables and steps involved in obtaining accurate results.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Video from the brand's Kickstarter, which has raised an impressive $16,365 of its $30,000 goal, explains how it works, why the product is revolutionary and how you can help turn this furry dream into a warm winter reality.

Huffington Post

Nick Torres explains how it works.

The Guardian - Tech

William Shain, dean of undergraduate admissions, explains how it works.

The New York Times

Chase's master distiller, Jamie Baggot, explains how it works: "The vapour comes up and hits the underside of the bell, then it condenses and drips off the edge.

Independent

It is when they go quiet that the software must prick up its electronic ears.Dick Oehrle, the chief linguist on the project, explains how it works.

The Economist

4. Write excerpts from a movie script in which a character introduces the device invented in class and explains how it works to other characters.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Explains how it worked, and the high-diving act of 125 feet which was highly dangerous.

The New Yorker

Can you explain how it works?

The New York Times

Explaining how it works is also a challenge.

The New York Times - Food

Apple has instructions for setting up FileVault 2 that further explain how it works.

The New York Times

Banks offer mortgage help, but there may not be anyone to explain how it works.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explains how it works", ensure that the explanation is clear and concise, catering to the intended audience's level of understanding. Visual aids, like diagrams or flowcharts, can greatly enhance comprehension.

Common error

Avoid using jargon or overly technical terms when "explaining how it works" to a general audience. Instead, use simple language and relatable analogies to ensure clarity and avoid confusing your reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explains how it works" primarily functions as a declarative statement, indicating that someone or something is providing clarification on the operational aspects of a system, process, or mechanism. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "explains how it works" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the process of clarifying the functionality of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific domains. Its primary function is to inform and educate, aiming to enhance understanding through clear and concise explanations. When using this phrase, ensure that the explanation is tailored to the audience's knowledge level and avoid using overly complex jargon. For alternative phrasings, consider options such as ""details the mechanism"" or "outlines the functionality" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

details the mechanism

Focuses on the specific operational steps.

outlines the functionality

Highlights what the process is designed to do.

clarifies the operation

Emphasizes making the workings understandable.

describes the process

Presents a general account of the steps involved.

elucidates the workings

Suggests a more in-depth or technical clarification.

shows the mechanics

Focuses on the system's functional parts and their interactions.

demonstrates the method

Presents a practical illustration of how to perform a task.

illustrates the procedure

Uses visual or descriptive examples to show how it works.

walks through the steps

Offers a detailed and sequential explanation.

breaks down the system

Simplifies a complex system for easier comprehension.

FAQs

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

You can use "explains how it works" to describe the function of a mechanism, system, or process. For example, "The manual "details the mechanism" of the engine." or "The video "illustrates the procedure" for assembling the furniture."

What are some alternatives to "explains how it works"?

Some alternatives include ""details the mechanism"", "outlines the functionality", or "clarifies the operation", depending on the specific context and the level of detail you want to convey.

Is it better to say "explains how it works" or "describes how it works"?

Both "explains how it works" and "describes how it works" are correct, but "explains how it works" implies a deeper level of clarification, while "describes how it works" simply provides an account. Choose the phrase that best fits the context and the purpose of your communication.

When should I use ""details the mechanism"" instead of "explains how it works"?

""details the mechanism"" is appropriate when you want to emphasize the specific operational steps or the intricate aspects of a process, whereas "explains how it works" is a more general way to describe the functionality.