gives context for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gives context for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when explaining how certain information or details help to clarify or provide background for a particular subject or situation. Example: "The author provides a detailed background that gives context for the main argument presented in the essay."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This paper provides an integrated summary of published and unpublished late Pleistocene palynological studies off eastern North Island, New Zealand that gives context for an analysis of cores within and marginal to the Waipaoa Sedimentary System.

Marine Geology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

While individual services give context for family and friends, the Dover photographs give context for an entire nation.

The New York Times

2. Player must try to give context for the photo.

The New York Times

I explain this to give context for 13P's decision not to open our production, "Melancholy Play," for review.

The New York Times

Commenting on the popular trend, Oyelowo said: "As artists, our primary function is not to be educators – but we are at a time in history, where for us, our history needs to give context for stories that we hope to tell down the road.

The Guardian - Film

16 If in a given context, for instance an economic slowdown, the goal is to protect and/or create jobs rapidly, interventions that increase aggregate demand or public works and services where the government creates jobs directly are probably a better option.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

The word "good" would be interpreted differently with regard to what the meaning holds within the given context for that person.

Huffington Post

To give context for Wormtongue killing Saruman, and Legolas in turn killing Wormtongue, it was to be revealed Wormtongue poisoned Théodred.

Wikipedia

Many different, socially recognised forms of liaison may operate in any given context for example a traditional practice which interviewees reported to contribute to the spread of HIV known as nyumba ntobu (literary means female to female marriages) which is common in Serengeti district and particularly among one ethnic group (name withheld).

BMC Public Health

These websites summarize, analyze, and give context for various books.

WikiHow

You should also give context for the play, such as the playwright or composer of the play and where the play is being staged.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gives context for", ensure that the context provided is directly relevant and aids in the reader's understanding of the subject matter. Be specific about what details are being provided and how they enhance comprehension.

Common error

Avoid using "gives context for" without specifying the nature of the context. Broad, undefined context can confuse readers rather than help them. Always clarify what specific background information is being provided.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gives context for" functions primarily as a verb phrase that introduces the purpose or effect of certain information. It is employed to indicate that the information provides a necessary background or framework for understanding a subject, situation, or event, as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "gives context for" is a grammatically sound expression used to denote that something provides background information essential for understanding a particular subject. According to Ludwig, although relatively rare, it appears across diverse domains, including news, science, and general reference. Its main goal is to enhance comprehension by supplying related details. When using this phrase, make sure to be specific about the type of context provided to maximize its effectiveness. Keep in mind alternatives such as "provides background for" or "offers insights into" to enrich your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provides a framework for

Emphasizes establishing a structured basis for understanding.

supplies background to

Highlights the act of offering supplementary details.

offers insights into

Focuses on delivering deeper understanding.

furnishes a perspective on

Stresses the provision of a viewpoint or angle.

illuminates the circumstances of

Highlights clarifying the surrounding conditions.

clarifies the situation regarding

Emphasizes making a situation more understandable.

sets the scene for

Focuses on creating the initial setting or background.

lends understanding to

Highlights contributing to a clearer comprehension.

adds clarity to

Emphasizes improving the clearness of something.

establishes the groundwork for

Highlights creating a foundational understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "gives context for" in a sentence?

Use "gives context for" to indicate that something provides background information that clarifies or explains a topic. For example: "The historical overview "provides context for" understanding the current political climate."

What are some alternatives to "gives context for"?

Alternatives to "gives context for" include "provides background for", "offers insights into", or "illuminates the circumstances of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "gives context for" or "provides context for"?

Both "gives context for" and "provides context for" are grammatically correct and largely interchangeable. The choice depends on personal preference and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "gives context for" and "explains"?

"Gives context for" suggests providing background information that aids understanding, while "explains" implies a more direct clarification of a topic. Context helps set the stage, whereas explanation directly clarifies meaning.