explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a statement or account that makes something clear or understandable. Example: "The teacher provided a thorough explanation of the complex topic, ensuring that all students grasped the key concepts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nor have I come across a clear explanation of exactly how the program could be put to such a purpose.

The Economist

Another explanation for the drop in unemployment in some states could be that workers are giving up on the job search, points out David Cooper of the Economic Policy Institute.

The Guardian - Money

However, Thomas points to a lack of critical discussion and explanation of the very basis for Prevent's community work, the rationale for how some areas are selected rather than others, and a lack of transparency about the proportion of spending on combating different types of extremism.

The Guardian

Searching for an explanation I could think of only one answer, and that from their idiosyncratic laws; Chile is the only country in the world where it's illegal to get a divorce.

The Guardian - Travel

Money can buy votes but it can't buy an explanation for those votes.

The Guardian - Opinion

But there's a simple explanation: we have reached the part of the campaign where politicians and the media are all dog-tired, have no idea which bit of the country they're in today and have a form of snow-blindness from the blizzard of policies the parties have pumped out.

The Guardian

Diniz says it's not clear why, but one likely explanation is that they are using contraception methods incorrectly.

The Guardian

The IPCC said the most "plausible" explanation for the location of the gun was that Duggan "was in the process of throwing it to his right as he was shot".

The Guardian

The last explanation is pleasing to my ears, but I also think it happens to be right.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"It followed that there had to be some explanation or justification for Ms Lawrie ignoring and disengaging with the inquiry.

The Guardian

The BBC press office's statement directly contradicted Khawaja's explanation of a prank, saying the accidental tweet had been linked to the training exercise.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing an "explanation", ensure it is tailored to your audience's level of understanding. Avoid jargon or overly technical language when addressing a general audience.

Common error

Avoid using overly complex language when offering an "explanation". Prioritize clarity and simplicity to ensure the message is easily understood.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "explanation" is as a noun. It refers to the act of explaining or something that explains, making it understandable. As Ludwig AI points out, it's used to clarify, elucidate, or provide an account.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "explanation" functions primarily as a noun and is used to describe the act of clarifying something or providing reasons for it. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is grammatically correct and widely used, with examples showing its prevalence in news and media contexts. Alternative phrases like "clarification" or "justification" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using "explanation", prioritize clarity and tailor your language to your audience to avoid confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarification

This term focuses on making something clearer or easier to understand.

justification

This implies providing reasons to support or defend an action or belief.

rationale

This term refers to the underlying reasons or principles for something.

account

This refers to a description or report of an event or experience.

elucidation

This emphasizes the act of making something clearer and more comprehensible.

interpretation

This involves explaining the meaning of something, especially in a particular way.

exposition

This refers to a comprehensive description and explanation of an idea or theory.

definition

This term provides a precise explanation of the meaning of a word or concept.

understanding

Focuses on the mental grasp of something.

description

Offers a detailed account of something.

FAQs

How can I use "explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "explanation" to describe the act of making something clear, such as "The teacher gave a detailed explanation of the concept." It can also refer to the reason or justification for something, like "The company provided an explanation for the delay".

What can I say instead of "explanation"?

You can use alternatives like "clarification", "justification", or "rationale" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "explanation of" or "explanation for"?

"Explanation of" is typically used when clarifying a concept or process, while "explanation for" is used when providing a reason for an event or situation. For example, "an explanation of the theory" versus "an explanation for the error".

What's the difference between "explanation" and "description"?

While both provide information, an "explanation" aims to clarify why or how something happens, whereas a "description" simply details what something is like.