explanations for

USAGE SUMMARY

"explanations for" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it when introducing a reason for something, usually following the phrase "provide/give/offer." For example, "The professor provided explanations for why the experiment failed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Explanations for these charges?

The New York Times

Explanations for them abound.

The Guardian - Opinion

Etiologic explanations for BPD vary.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Explanations for the change vary.

The New Yorker

Explanations for the Reader.

Stanford University

Researchers have found two explanations for this.

The New York Times

Explanations for the rising divorce rate vary.

The New York Times

The explanations for "cripping up" are obvious.

The Guardian - Opinion

There are many possible explanations for this.

The Economist

He has two explanations for this.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Some explanations for the disparity are uncontroversial.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explanations for", ensure that the explanations provided are logical, coherent, and supported by evidence.

Common error

While "explanations for" is useful, avoid overuse. Vary your language by using synonyms like "reasons for" or "causes of" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explanations for" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing the reasons or causes behind a particular event, decision, or phenomenon. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a grammatically correct and usable part of a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

25%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explanations for" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to introduce reasons or causes. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. It finds frequent use in news, media, and scientific contexts, showing its broad applicability. While interchangeable with phrases like "reasons for" or "causes of", "explanations for" carries a slightly more formal tone. When writing, remember to provide clear and coherent explanations supported by evidence, and avoid overuse by varying your language with synonyms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reasons for

Focuses more directly on the 'why' behind something, emphasizing the logical basis.

causes of

Highlights the factors that bring about a certain result or phenomenon.

rationale behind

Emphasizes the logical or philosophical basis for a decision or action.

justifications for

Suggests a need to defend or rationalize something, implying potential criticism.

basis for

Indicates the fundamental principles or grounds upon which something is based.

grounds for

Similar to "basis for", but can also imply legal or formal reasons.

motives for

Highlights the underlying desires or intentions that drive an action.

theories about

Presents a set of ideas or hypotheses that aim to explain a phenomenon.

interpretations of

Focuses on different ways of understanding or construing something.

the why of

A more informal and direct way of asking about the reasons or causes.

FAQs

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

You can use "explanations for" to introduce the reasons or causes behind something. For example, "There are several "reasons for" this unexpected result, and the "explanations for" the phenomenon are complex."

What are some alternatives to "explanations for"?

Alternatives include "reasons for", "causes of", or "rationale behind", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "explanations for" or "reasons for"?

Both are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. "Explanations for" may be slightly more formal and comprehensive, while "reasons for" is more direct and commonly used. The best choice depends on the tone and context of your writing.

Can "explanations for" be used in both formal and informal writing?

Yes, "explanations for" is versatile and suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, in very informal contexts, you might opt for simpler alternatives like "the why of" to maintain a conversational tone.