give an explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

"give an explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you're asking someone to provide further information about something. For example, "Can you give an explanation as to why you weren't able to finish the project on time?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Some officers don't give an explanation.

The New York Times

RBS refused to give an explanation.

The Guardian - Business

"He didn't have to give an explanation.

The New York Times

It is difficult for me to give an explanation.

Independent

I just couldn't give an explanation of it.

The New York Times - Books

And feel free to give an explanation of whatever you think noir fiction may be.

The Guardian - Books

"It's difficult to give an explanation because the perspective is different," Goto says.

The Guardian - Tech

Being asked to give an explanation for why your blood has done something is just impossible.

The Guardian - Sport

Byrne has been approached directly by the government to give an explanation for his actions.

The Guardian

"I don't know that everyone holds—I have to give an explanation," Stumpf said.

The New Yorker

He said he would give an explanation for the ruling this morning.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "give an explanation", ensure the explanation is clear, concise, and relevant to the context. Avoid ambiguity and provide sufficient detail for the audience to understand.

Common error

Avoid using overly technical or jargon-filled language when you "give an explanation". Tailor the explanation to the audience's understanding level to ensure effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "give an explanation" functions as a verb phrase, where "give" is the main verb and "an explanation" is the direct object. It is used to request or offer a clarification or reason for something. Ludwig examples show it used across diverse scenarios.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "give an explanation" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to request or provide clarification. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. With widespread use in news, science, and formal communication, it's essential for clear communication. Remember to keep your explanations clear and concise. Alternatives include "provide a reason" or "offer clarification", depending on the specific context. While versatile, avoid overly complex language to ensure effective understanding. The phrase’s frequency across authoritative sources underscores its reliability and broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provide a reason

Focuses on supplying the cause or justification for something, shifting the emphasis slightly from the explication itself.

offer clarification

Highlights the act of making something clearer, suitable when the aim is to remove ambiguity.

present details

Emphasizes the provision of specific information, useful when thoroughness is key.

state the reasons

Stresses the act of formally declaring or articulating the motives behind an action or decision.

furnish details

Focuses on supplying information, often in a formal or official context.

offer an account

Implies a narrative or descriptive report, usually detailing events or occurrences.

deliver an account

Suggests a more formal or structured presentation of a description or explanation.

elucidate the matter

Indicates a desire to make something clearer, usually through detailed explanation.

shed light on

This idiomatic expression emphasizes the act of revealing or clarifying something that was previously obscure.

clarify the issue

Directly addresses the need to make a specific problem or subject more understandable.

FAQs

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

You can use "give an explanation" when you want someone to clarify something, as in, "The manager needs to "give an explanation" for the budget shortfall".

What are some alternatives to "give an explanation"?

Alternatives include "provide a reason", "offer clarification", or "present details", depending on the specific context.

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

Both "give an explanation" and "provide an explanation" are correct and often interchangeable. The choice depends on stylistic preference, though "provide" might sound slightly more formal.

When is it appropriate to ask someone to "give an explanation"?

It is appropriate to ask someone to "give an explanation" when clarification is needed, when there's a misunderstanding, or when more details are required to understand a situation or decision.