explanation for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explanation for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to provide an explanation or reasoning for why something is a certain way. For example, "What is the explanation for this peculiar behavior?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Explanation for Bad Advice.

The New York Times

An explanation for the nerds.

The New York Times

Her explanation for their visit?

The New York Times

Her explanation for this?

The Guardian - Money

Menopause is hardly an explanation for suicide.

The New York Times - Magazine

No definitive explanation for it exists.

The New York Times

Clemens always had an explanation for things.

The New York Times - Sports

"It has no explanation for being.

The New York Times

(No explanation for this decision is recorded).

The New Yorker

Kozma had no explanation for his mistake.

The New York Times - Sports

I have no explanation for it".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "explanation for" when you need to provide a clear and understandable reason or cause for something. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While grammatically sound, repeatedly using "explanation for" can make your writing sound monotonous. Vary your language by using synonyms like "reason for" or "rationale behind" to enhance readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explanation for" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces the reason or cause of something. Ludwig examples show it is used to seek or provide clarity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explanation for" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that serves to introduce the reasons or causes behind events, actions, or situations. As shown by Ludwig, it is common in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts. While effective, varying your language with alternatives like "reason for" or "rationale behind" can enhance your writing style. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reason for

Focuses more directly on the cause or motive behind something.

justification for

Suggests a need to defend or validate an action or decision.

rationale behind

Emphasizes the logical basis or underlying principles.

grounds for

Implies a legal or formal basis for something.

basis for

Highlights the foundation or support for a claim or argument.

account for

Indicates a need to clarify or provide details about something.

the why behind

An informal way to ask for the reasons or motivations.

purpose of

Focuses on the intended goal or aim.

etiology of

A formal, often medical, term for the cause or origin of a disease or condition.

interpretation of

Suggests a subjective understanding or analysis.

FAQs

How can I use "explanation for" in a sentence?

You can use "explanation for" to introduce the reason or cause of something. For example, "What is the "reason for" this delay?" or "The "justification for" the decision was not clear.

What are some alternatives to "explanation for"?

Some alternatives include "reason for", "justification for", "rationale behind", "grounds for", and "basis for", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "explanation for" and "reason for"?

While similar, "explanation for" often implies a more detailed account, whereas "reason for" is a more direct statement of cause. The choice depends on the level of detail required.

When is it appropriate to use "explanation for" in formal writing?

It is appropriate in formal writing, but consider alternatives like "rationale behind" or "basis for" in very formal contexts to add variety and sophistication to your prose.