explanatory note

USAGE SUMMARY

"explanatory note" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to provide additional information about a specific topic or issue. For example, "The following text contains an explanatory note about the impact of the pandemic on the economy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The terrorists didn't leave an explanatory note.

The New York Times

But his "explanatory note" was issued from Toronto, not Rome.

The New Yorker

The generic name is followed by an appropriate explanatory note.

Nature

It is worthwhile, however, to register another explanatory note.

Britannica

Where necessary, there was an explanatory note like "usu.

The New York Times - Books

His entry added a further explanatory note, not reproduced above: '2 meanings, one & lit.'.

The Guardian

The next day, an explanatory note came: "I have sent my watch home.

The New Yorker

"There will be times when both of the statements describe you," an explanatory note read.

The New York Times

This was surprising in the Baillie, whose programme text appeared to be an authentic explanatory note.

The Guardian - Music

The Fiery Furnaces' third album comes with a heart-sinking explanatory note.

The Guardian - Music

If a school has a "flexible" deadline, an explanatory note may be required.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "explanatory note" when you need to provide additional context or clarification to a potentially confusing piece of information. For instance, add an "explanatory note" to a complex chart to explain the methodology or data sources.

Common error

Avoid using overly technical or specialized language in your primary content without providing a clear and accessible "explanatory note" for readers who may not be familiar with the terms. Always aim for clarity and inclusivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explanatory note" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to introduce additional information or clarification about a specific topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used in written English to provide context or details that might not be immediately clear.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explanatory note" is a common and grammatically sound way to introduce clarifying information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to provide context or detail. It's used across a spectrum of registers, from academic writing to news reporting, but is most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Academia. When writing, ensure that any specialized terminology in the main content is supplemented with a clear "explanatory note" to enhance comprehension. Related phrases include "briefing note" and "explanatory memorandum", each carrying slightly different connotations related to detail and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explanation note

A slight variation using 'explanation' instead of 'explanatory'.

accompanying note

Highlights the fact that the note is provided alongside something else.

explanatory memorandum

Implies a more formal and detailed written explanation.

interpretive note

Suggests the note offers an interpretation of something.

briefing note

Focuses more on summarizing information for decision-making.

clarifying remarks

Emphasizes the act of making something clearer through comments.

introductory note

Focuses on setting the stage or providing initial information.

descriptive annotation

Highlights the detailed description provided within the annotation.

supplementary details

Indicates additional information is being provided.

background information

Suggests the note gives context and foundational understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "explanatory note" in a sentence?

You can use "explanatory note" to introduce additional information or clarification. For example, "The document includes an "explanatory note" detailing the changes made".

What's the difference between "explanatory note" and "explanatory memorandum"?

While both provide explanations, an "explanatory note" is generally shorter and less formal, while an "explanatory memorandum" is typically a more detailed and formal document, often accompanying legislation.

When should I include an "explanatory note"?

Include an "explanatory note" when you need to clarify potentially confusing information, provide context, or offer additional details that are not immediately apparent in the main text.

What can I say instead of "explanatory note"?

You can use alternatives like "explanation note", "briefing note", or "accompanying note" depending on the context.