for background

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for background" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is provided for informational purposes rather than as the main point of focus. For example, "I've included some details about my educational background for background."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Just for background.

The Guardian

So much for background.

The New York Times

Google "Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir Haiti" for background.

The New Yorker

Click for background and technical details.

The New York Times

(For background, go here, here or here).

The New York Times

For background, use this cellar wall.

The New Yorker

Read this story for background.

The New York Times

This is called controlling for background.

The New York Times

Click here for background on the case.

The Guardian

(For background, see this and this).

The Guardian

[For background see the Eurasia Insight archive].

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for background" when introducing supplementary information that helps provide context but isn't central to your main point. This helps readers understand the foundation upon which your argument or explanation is built.

Common error

Avoid using "for background" to introduce essential elements of your core argument. Reserve it for genuinely secondary details. Overusing it dilutes its purpose and can make your writing seem less focused.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for background" functions as a prepositional phrase. It typically modifies a verb or noun phrase, providing additional context or explanatory information, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for background" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase. According to Ludwig, it serves to introduce supplementary information, providing context without being the main focus. Its usage spans various registers, from formal academic writing to neutral news reports. While it's a versatile phrase, avoid overusing it for essential arguments to maintain clarity. Be sure to check also its similar meaning, such as "as context" or "to provide context".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as context

Replaces "for background" with a more concise term indicating contextual information.

to provide context

Emphasizes the action of giving context rather than the static state of background information.

as additional information

Focuses on the supplementary nature of the provided details.

in explanation

Highlights the explanatory purpose of the forthcoming information.

by way of explanation

A slightly more formal way to introduce explanatory details.

for informational purposes

Clearly states the information is intended to educate or inform, not necessarily to advance the main point.

in relation to

Indicates a connection or relevance to a preceding topic.

as a preface

Positions the information as an introductory note.

to set the scene

Suggests the information prepares the audience for what is to come.

in support of

The added information helps to bolster the main idea or argument.

FAQs

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

You can use "for background" to introduce contextual or supplementary information. For example, "I've included some historical data "for background"."

What are some alternatives to using "for background"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "as context", "to provide context", or "as additional information" instead of "for background".

Is it appropriate to use "for background" in formal writing?

Yes, "for background" is generally acceptable in formal writing, especially when providing necessary context or supplementary details. However, consider alternatives like "by way of explanation" for a more formal tone.

What's the difference between "for background" and "in detail"?

"For background" introduces supplementary information that provides context, while "in detail" indicates that you will provide a thorough and comprehensive explanation of a specific topic.