explanation of something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explanation of something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to clarify or provide details about a specific topic or concept. Example: "The explanation of something as complex as quantum physics requires a deep understanding of both mathematics and science."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

I offer this diagnosis in part as explanation of something which materialism has in common with other hardy perennials of philosophy.

Princeton University

And that is the real explanation of something that often surprises foreigners: the fact that there was no backlash against Spain's Muslim population after the attacks.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Stories are fun," he writes, "and we all love repeating them," but "to claim a supernatural explanation of something is not to explain it at all".

The Guardian - Books

Hence the reference is obviously to Aristotle's distinction between knowledge of the ground or explanation of something and knowledge of the mere fact.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is one of those books with an annoying Gladwellesque subtitle that promises an explanation of something you don't necessarily believe – in this case, "Why Success Always Starts with Failure".

The Guardian - Books

All the four (types of) causes may enter in the explanation of something.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

One of the remarkable things about the ongoing economic crisis is the endless search for explanations of something that's actually quite simple — the sluggish pace of recovery.

The New York Times

Consider that an explanation of why "Something Rotten," Mr. Fforde's latest, opens in the Old West with a rogue Minotaur on the loose and a spaceship passing overhead.

The New York Times - Books

When we look for an explanation of why something is metaphysically possible or necessary we ultimately look to the essential properties or essences of the entities involved.

SEP

Luck will certainly not do here; we need some rational explanation of how something this unlikely turned out to be the case" (Smolin 1999, 45).

SEP

This argument relies on a highly controversial principle about how an explanation of why something is a value must work — a very similar principle to that which was appealed to in the argument that intrinsic value must be an intrinsic property [section 2.1.1].

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explanation of something", ensure that the 'something' is clearly defined or implied within the context. This avoids vagueness and ensures the explanation is focused and relevant.

Common error

Avoid using "explanation of something" as a placeholder when the specific subject is known. Replace 'something' with a precise noun or noun phrase to enhance clarity and provide more informative context for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explanation of something" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a prepositional phrase. It refers to the act or process of providing reasons or clarification. Examples on Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts, ranging from scientific theories to personal experiences. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness of the expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

14%

Encyclopedias

9%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explanation of something" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression across diverse contexts, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure the 'something' is clearly defined to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "reason for something" or "clarification of something" offer nuanced options depending on the specific meaning intended. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is a valuable tool for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarification of something

Highlights the act of making something clearer or easier to understand, often by removing ambiguity.

reason for something

Focuses on the justification or cause behind an event or phenomenon, rather than the detailed account.

the cause of something

Directly points to the event or condition that produces a particular result or effect.

account of something

Implies a narrative or detailed description, often emphasizing a sequence of events or observations.

rationale for something

Highlights the underlying principles or logic behind a decision, action, or belief.

elucidation of something

Suggests a more formal and thorough explanation, often used in academic or technical contexts.

the why behind something

A more informal phrasing that directly seeks the cause or motivation for something.

interpretation of something

Emphasizes a particular understanding or perspective on a subject, which may be subjective.

justification for something

Focuses on providing reasons or evidence to support the validity or appropriateness of something.

the basis for something

Focuses on the foundation or underlying principles upon which something is built or established.

FAQs

How can I use "explanation of something" in a sentence?

You can use "explanation of something" when referring to a reason or clarification for an unspecified subject. For example, "The book provides an "explanation of something" as complex as quantum physics."

What are some alternatives to "explanation of something"?

Alternatives include "reason for something", "account of something", or "clarification of something", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "explanation of something" grammatically correct?

Yes, "explanation of something" is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. However, ensure the "something" is contextually clear.

When is it appropriate to use "explanation of something"?

It's appropriate when you are referring to an explanation in a general sense or when the specific subject of the explanation is not immediately apparent. If the subject is clear, it's better to replace "something" with a more specific term.