firm explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "firm explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to convey a clear and strong clarification or justification for something. Example: "The manager provided a firm explanation for the changes in the project timeline, ensuring everyone understood the reasons behind the decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Kerry's performance on the stump has been uneven, and his public groping for a firm explanation of his position on Iraq was discouraging to behold.

The New Yorker

In some ways, El Duque's injury is a relief, the beginning of some firm explanation for his sharp decline, which began last season and has continued this year.

The New York Times - Sports

Researchers looking at heart attacks have found them to be more common in the morning and on Mondays, although no firm explanation has been found as to why this might be.

The New York Times - Health

No firm explanation was offered, but the researchers said that mental illness may make people more vulnerable to nicotine addiction or to tobacco advertising, or that smoking may cause mental illness.

The New York Times

These descriptors were used in the characterization and successfully description of the preferred reactive sites and provide a firm explanation for the reactivity of the Naringenin molecule.

Chemistry Central Journal

These descriptors were used in the characterization and successfully description of the preferred reactive sites and provide a firm explanation for the reactivity of those molecules.

Chemistry Central Journal

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The managing director of Ovo Energy - one of the smaller brands on the market - has told MPs that he is confused by other firms' explanation for higher prices.

BBC

On Tuesday, he told an MPs he could not understand bigger firms' explanation for increasing prices when, he said, wholesale gas prices had actually fallen recently.

BBC

Then something unexpected happened, something for which nobody — not Mr. Cervantes, Father Perry, Deacon O'Neill or Ms. Lindberg — has a firm legal explanation.

The New York Times

It invested in funds whose deals involved much less debt and much more attention to improving the operating performance of the firms concerned.Another explanation for the poor performance of many private-equity firms may be the inadequacies of their main investors.

The Economist

Now, Sidgmore must explain away the failure of the firm's explanations, as well.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "firm explanation" when you want to emphasize the clarity, strength, and unambiguity of a reason or clarification. Ensure that the explanation leaves no room for doubt.

Common error

Avoid using "firm explanation" in casual conversations where a more relaxed tone is appropriate. Opt for simpler terms like "clear reason" or "straightforward explanation" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firm explanation" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "firm" modifies the noun "explanation". It denotes a clear, decisive, and unwavering reason or clarification for something. Ludwig AI indicates that the expression is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "firm explanation" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that conveys a clear, strong, and unambiguous justification. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is suitable for both News & Media and Science contexts. While not extremely common, "firm explanation" provides a way to stress the solidity and convincing nature of an explanation. Alternative phrases such as "clear explanation", "solid explanation", or "definite explanation" can be used depending on the desired nuance. It's best to avoid using "firm explanation" in overly informal settings, as simpler phrasing may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clear explanation

Replaces "firm" with "clear", focusing on understandability.

solid explanation

Substitutes "firm" with "solid", emphasizing the explanation's robustness.

definite explanation

Replaces "firm" with "definite", suggesting a conclusive explanation.

convincing explanation

Focuses on the ability of the explanation to persuade.

sound explanation

Emphasizes the validity and logical coherence of the explanation.

detailed explanation

Highlights the level of detail and thoroughness in the explanation.

thorough explanation

Emphasizes the comprehensiveness of the explanation.

precise explanation

Focuses on the accuracy and exactness of the explanation.

valid justification

Shifts focus to the justification aspect of the explanation, emphasizing its soundness.

strong rationale

Highlights the strength and logic behind the reasoning.

FAQs

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

You can use "firm explanation" to describe a clear and strong justification. For example: "The manager provided a "firm explanation" for the changes in the project timeline".

What can I say instead of "firm explanation"?

You can use alternatives like "clear explanation", "solid explanation", or "definite explanation" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "firm explanation"?

It is appropriate to use "firm explanation" in situations where a strong, clear, and unambiguous reason or justification is needed, especially in formal or professional contexts.

What is the difference between "firm explanation" and "simple explanation"?

"Firm explanation" implies a robust and unquestionable justification, while "simple explanation" focuses on ease of understanding, regardless of the strength of the reasoning.