explanation is needed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explanation is needed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that further clarification or details are required on a particular topic or issue. Example: "In order to proceed with the project, an explanation is needed regarding the budget allocation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

More explanation is needed.

The New York Times

Here a bit of explanation is needed.

The New York Times

But now that economies are slowing, some other explanation is needed, he said.

The New York Times - Tech

No explanation is needed of how cool that is (and it's free).

The Guardian - Tech

HAMMERING nails is such an elementary task that it would seem that no explanation is needed.

The New York Times

No explanation is needed of the sour relationship between the Chargers and their aggravated fans.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

No further explanation was needed beyond the aesthetic one.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So ingrained is Cruise's Oprah appearance in our collective memory that no explanation was needed.

The Guardian - Film

Realizing an explanation was needed, Eruzione turned to Phil Verchota, a left wing who had coined it.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's Jeremy Lin," she said in a tone that suggested no further explanation was needed.

The New York Times - Sports

Tim Tompkins, president of the Times Square Alliance, said little explanation was needed when the chairs were put in place.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explanation is needed", ensure that the context clearly indicates what specifically requires further clarification. Be direct about the subject matter needing explanation to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "explanation is needed" without specifying what exactly needs explaining. For example, instead of just stating "explanation is needed", specify "an explanation is needed regarding the budget allocation."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explanation is needed" functions as a statement indicating a requirement for further clarification or details. It conveys that the current information is insufficient for full understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explanation is needed" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate that further clarification or information is required. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, scientific writing, and encyclopedic entries. While generally neutral, it leans towards a more formal tone. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what requires further explanation. Alternatives such as "clarification is required" or "further details are necessary" can be used in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarification is required

Emphasizes a formal requirement for making something clearer.

further details are necessary

Highlights the necessity of additional information.

more information is required

Focuses on the need for additional factual data.

elaboration is required

Stresses the need for a more detailed account or explanation.

justification is necessary

Highlights the requirement for providing reasons or evidence to support a claim.

reasons must be provided

Emphasizes the obligation to give explanations for actions or decisions.

an account is necessary

Focuses on the need for a descriptive report of an event or situation.

a rationale is required

Stresses the need for a logical basis or underlying principle.

additional context is needed

Highlights the importance of supplementary background information.

the reasons should be explained

Focuses on the act of clarifying underlying causes or motives.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "explanation is needed" in a formal context?

In a formal context, you can rephrase "explanation is needed" as "clarification is required", "further details are necessary", or "elaboration is required".

What is the difference between "explanation is needed" and "justification is necessary"?

"Explanation is needed" implies a requirement for making something clear or understandable, while "justification is necessary" suggests a need for providing reasons or evidence to support a claim or action. The former focuses on clarity, the latter on validation.

When is it appropriate to use "explanation is needed"?

It's appropriate to use "explanation is needed" when there is a lack of clarity or understanding regarding a particular topic, situation, or decision. It suggests that further information or clarification is required to fully comprehend the matter.

Are there any informal alternatives to "explanation is needed"?

While "explanation is needed" is already fairly neutral, you could use phrases like "more information is required" or "we need to know why" in more casual settings. However, "explanation is needed" is acceptable in most contexts.