explanation as to how

USAGE SUMMARY

"explanation as to how" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to introduce a detailed description or clarification of a process, mechanism, or concept. Example: The teacher gave us an explanation as to how photosynthesis works, breaking down the chemical reactions and key components involved in the process.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But there is, as yet, no explanation as to how this will be ensured.

The Guardian

These findings provide an explanation as to how CRISPR/Cas can mediate targeted homozygous mutations.

Nature

It might even elicit an explanation as to how the party is to pay for them.

The Economist

But there is the beginning of an explanation as to how so many people failed to spot the alleged fraud.

The Washington Post

We need a full explanation as to how this meeting was arranged and why no civil servants were present.

The Guardian

Neither American nor Iraqi government officials had any immediate explanation as to how the bombs were smuggled inside.

The New York Times

France said it was seeking an explanation as to how an "accomplished and esteemed" journalist had vanished.

The Guardian

(2) An explanation as to how the subsidiary railroads operate as a single, seamless, integrated United States railroad system.

Cornell University

After all, somebody needs to come up with a pretty decent explanation as to how a guitar record made in 2008 could crackle with this much electricity.

The Guardian - Music

The crown had spent months effectively throwing random bricks at the jury with little or no explanation as to how they fitted together.

The Guardian

What was missing in this area was an explanation as to how variation of these neurobiological systems shapes individual differences in the enduring consequences of environmental factors.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "explanation as to how" when you need to introduce a detailed account of a process or mechanism. It sets the stage for a thorough breakdown.

Common error

Avoid using "explanation as to how" in situations where a simpler word like "how" or "why" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal and complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explanation as to how" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a detailed account or clarification of a process, mechanism, or reason. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically sound and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explanation as to how" serves to introduce a detailed breakdown of a process or mechanism. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Common across news, scientific, and academic contexts, it's best used when a thorough understanding is required. While versatile, avoid overuse in simple contexts where simpler alternatives suffice. Remember to introduce detailed accounts of processes and mechanisms. The frequent occurrence of this phrase in reliable sources like The Guardian, The New York Times and BBC confirms its widespread acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

elaboration as to how

Implies a more detailed and expanded description.

reasoning as to how

Focuses on the process of logical thought and deduction.

rationale as to how

Emphasizes the logical reasons or justifications.

theory as to how

Focuses on a speculative or unproven understanding.

narrative as to how

Similar to "story", but often implies a more structured and detailed account.

story as to how

Suggests a narrative or account of events.

declaration as to how

Emphasizes a formal or explicit statement about the method.

note as to how

Highlights a brief remark or observation about the method.

announcement as to how

Highlights the public communication of information.

excuse as to how

Suggests an attempt to justify or defend a particular action or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "explanation as to how" in a sentence?

The phrase "explanation as to how" is used to introduce a detailed description of a process or reason. For example: "We need a clear explanation as to how this error occurred."

What are some alternatives to "explanation as to how"?

You can use alternatives like "theory as to how", "elaboration as to how", or simply "how" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "explanation as to how" and "explanation of how"?

While both phrases are similar, "explanation as to how" often suggests a more formal and detailed account, whereas "explanation of how" can be more general. The subtle difference is that the alternative "explanation of how" is more concise.

When is it appropriate to use "explanation as to how" versus just "how"?

Use "explanation as to how" when you want to emphasize the need for a comprehensive and thorough understanding of a process. Using just "how" is suitable for simpler questions or requests for information.