formulate an explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formulate an explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of creating or developing a clear and structured explanation for a concept or phenomenon. Example: "In order to understand the results of the experiment, we need to formulate an explanation based on the data collected."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Then, it would be necessary and interesting to formulate an explanation on how such a simple mechanism could evolve into an RNA-based proto-translation system.

Biology Direct

In comparison with responding to propositions that each relate to one facet, being able to formulate an explanation that simultaneously includes several facets is arguably more difficult and, thus requires a deeper and more integrated level of conceptual understanding.

CBE Life Sciences Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Debon Lewis, the school's principal, planned last week to tell students about Mr. Newman's death, but had not yet formulated an explanation that might reach fifth graders who have not yet watched "Hud" on DVD.

The New York Times

No one – certainly not John Tolkien, who died yesterday of pneumonia which developed during treatment for a gastric ulcer – has formulated an explanation for why the books in his Lord of the Ring trilogy should at present be selling a steady million copies a year in the United States and half a million in Britain.

The Guardian

Alas, little reason exists to expect Becker's successors in the guild of professional historians to join with ordinary Americans in formulating an explanation.

Huffington Post

Or a suspect may be formulating an explanation of events that lessens his culpability, planning an alibi, or thinking through his options.

Wikipedia

As these examples bring out, there is no necessary incompatibility between the project of trying to formulate an account of explanation that satisfies traditional goals and an interest in the psychology of explanation.

SEP

Therefore, in this paper we theoretically explore the influence of uniaxial strain on the band structures and carrier density of AGNRs for both the n = 3 m and n = 3 m + 1 families using tight-binding calculations and formulate a universal explanation for the effect of strain.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Further studies are needed in order to formulate a mechanistic explanation for the enhanced accumulation of p53 protein in astrocytic tumours.

British Journal of Cancer

In the last step of each case study, we will relate the retained CMO configurations to the initial PT and accept, modify or reject its clauses in order to formulate a plausible explanation of how and why specific strategies for implementation of community-based intervention involving volunteers bring about better work behaviour among volunteers.

BMJ Open

Hahn sent an account of the work to Meitner, who, in cooperation with her nephew Otto Frisch, formulated a plausible explanation of the process, to which they gave the name nuclear fission.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing in technical fields, ensure that your explanation is not only well-structured but also supported by credible evidence.

Common error

Avoid using overly complex language when formulating an explanation. Aim for clarity and conciseness to ensure your audience understands the key points.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formulate an explanation" functions as a verb phrase often used to describe the action of creating or developing a detailed account or hypothesis. Ludwig's examples show this phrase in both scientific and general contexts, reinforcing its role in expressing cognitive processes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "formulate an explanation" is a versatile phrase used to describe the process of developing a detailed and reasoned account. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, particularly in science, news, and academic writing. Alternatives such as "develop an explanation" or "create an explanation" can be used to add variety. When using "formulate an explanation", ensure your language is clear and supported by evidence to avoid common errors like overcomplicating the explanation. Given its frequent use, understanding this phrase enhances effective communication in professional and academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

develop an explanation

Focuses on the process of building or expanding upon an existing idea.

create an explanation

Emphasizes the act of bringing an explanation into existence.

construct an explanation

Highlights the structured and methodical nature of creating an explanation.

devise an explanation

Implies ingenuity and inventiveness in creating an explanation.

formulate a theory

Shifts the focus to creating a more comprehensive framework.

establish an explanation

Highlights the act of making an explanation recognized or accepted.

put forward an explanation

Focuses on presenting or suggesting an explanation for consideration.

offer an explanation

Emphasizes the act of providing an explanation.

propose an explanation

Highlights the act of suggesting an explanation, often for further discussion.

advance an explanation

Suggests promoting or advocating for a particular explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "formulate an explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "formulate an explanation" when you are creating or developing a detailed explanation. For example: "The scientists worked together to formulate an explanation for the unexpected results."

What are some alternatives to "formulate an explanation"?

Some alternatives to "formulate an explanation" include "develop an explanation", "create an explanation", or "construct an explanation".

Is it better to "formulate an explanation" or "provide an explanation"?

"Formulate an explanation" suggests a more thorough and deliberate process of creating an explanation, while "provide an explanation" simply means giving an explanation, which might be less detailed.

What does it mean to "formulate an explanation"?

To "formulate an explanation" means to develop a clear and systematic account of something, often involving careful thought and analysis.