good explanation for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "good explanation for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that a particular explanation is satisfactory or adequate for a specific topic or question. Example: "The teacher provided a good explanation for the complex theory, making it easier for the students to understand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I never read a good explanation for this finding.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

There is just no good explanation for this.

The New York Times

Is "ghosts" a good explanation for this one?

The New Yorker

Kheir's cheese counter offers a good explanation for their popularity.

The Guardian

And nobody has a good explanation for why.

The New York Times

One top aide said he hoped that the Pentagon had a good explanation for it.

The New York Times

Birds would be one good explanation for how they got there.

The New Yorker

Neuroscience has a pretty good explanation for what happened in my head during those several seconds.

The New Yorker

I'm sure he will have a good explanation for what he did.

The New York Times - Sports

At least we have a good explanation for why that happened.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"There is a perfectly good explanation for that - it had gone.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "good explanation for", ensure the explanation genuinely clarifies the subject. Avoid vague or circular reasoning that offers little insight.

Common error

Avoid claiming that something is a "good explanation for" something when it's merely a potential or speculative reason. Use qualifying language like "possible explanation" or "potential factor" if the evidence is not conclusive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "good explanation for" serves as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, often introducing a reason or justification for a particular phenomenon or situation. It indicates that a given explanation is adequate and satisfactory. As Ludwig AI shows, the phrase is frequently used to introduce the reason.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "good explanation for" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce a satisfactory reason or justification for something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia. When using this phrase, ensure the explanation is genuinely clarifying and avoid overstating the quality of the explanation if the evidence is weak. Alternatives include "convincing rationale for" or "plausible reason for", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cogent explanation for

Emphasizes that the explanation is clear, logical, and persuasive.

plausible reason for

Suggests that the explanation is believable and likely to be true.

reasonable basis for

Implies that the explanation is logical and sensible.

sound justification for

Highlights the validity and defensibility of the reason provided.

credible cause for

Highlights the believability and trustworthiness of the reason or motive.

valid grounds for

Indicates that the explanation is based on solid and legitimate foundations.

convincing rationale for

Emphasizes the persuasiveness and logical soundness of the explanation.

tenable argument for

Suggests that the explanation is defendable and can withstand scrutiny.

acceptable account for

Focuses on the adequacy and permissibility of the explanation.

satisfactory answer for

Focuses on whether the response adequately addresses a question or concern.

FAQs

How can I use "good explanation for" in a sentence?

You can use "good explanation for" to introduce a reason or justification that adequately clarifies a situation or phenomenon. For example, "The increase in sales is a "good explanation for" the company's success this quarter."

What's a more formal alternative to "good explanation for"?

A more formal alternative to "good explanation for" could be "compelling rationale for" or "cogent justification for". These phrases convey a similar meaning but are suitable for professional or academic contexts.

When is it inappropriate to use "good explanation for"?

It's inappropriate to use "good explanation for" when the reason provided is weak, speculative, or lacks evidence. In such cases, it would be more accurate to say "possible explanation" or "potential cause".

Is there a difference between "good explanation for" and "valid reason for"?

While both phrases are similar, "good explanation for" typically refers to a comprehensive account or understanding, while "valid reason for" simply points to a legitimate cause or justification. A "good explanation" often includes more context and detail.