explains that

USAGE SUMMARY

"explains that" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to introduce information that explains a previous statement. For example: "The car was making loud noises when I drove it. The mechanic explains that the sounds were caused by worn out brake pads."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As Srikanth explains, that required some algorithmic streamlining.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But as he explains, that is part of the fun.

The Economist

What explains that kind of crazy club love?

Forbes

But as Saira Syed explains, that is changing fast.

BBC

What explains that?

The New York Times

So that explains that then.

The Guardian - Tech

"This explains that poem".

The Guardian - Books

So what explains that A-plus?

The New York Times

This piece explains that concern.

The Washington Post

Writer explains that progress has eluded Latin America.

The New Yorker

The text explains that we have choices.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "explains that" to introduce a clarification or reason behind a previous statement, providing context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "explains that" in very simple sentences where a direct statement would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive and less concise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explains that" functions as a reporting verb, used to introduce a subordinate clause that provides an explanation or clarification. It indicates that someone is offering reasoning or context for a particular situation or statement, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

32%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explains that" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce an explanation or clarification. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic contexts, it serves to provide reasoning or deeper understanding. While versatile, overuse in simple sentences should be avoided. Alternatives like "clarifies that" or "indicates that" can offer variety. Overall, "explains that" is a reliable way to add context and justification to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarifies that

Focuses on making something clearer or easier to understand.

indicates that

Suggests a pointing out or a sign that something is the case.

reveals that

Implies uncovering something previously unknown or hidden.

demonstrates that

Shows or proves something with evidence.

elucidates that

Brings light or clarity to a complex topic.

details that

Provides specific information about something.

outlines that

Presents a general overview or main points.

states that

Formally declares or expresses something.

notes that

Brings attention to a specific point.

mentions that

Briefly refers to something.

FAQs

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

Use "explains that" to introduce an explanation or clarification for a previous statement. For example, "The project was delayed; the manager "explains that" this was due to unforeseen circumstances".

What are some alternatives to "explains that"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "clarifies that", "indicates that", or "reveals that" to introduce an explanation.

Is there a difference between "explains that" and "states that"?

"Explains that" implies providing reasoning or clarification, while "states that" is a more neutral way of reporting information. Use ""explains that"" when you want to convey that someone is offering an explanation.

When is it appropriate to use "explains that" in formal writing?

It's appropriate in formal writing when you need to introduce a detailed explanation or justification for a particular action or decision. However, avoid overuse to maintain clarity and conciseness.