helpful context

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "helpful context" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to information or background that aids in understanding a situation or topic. Example: "To better understand the research findings, it is essential to provide helpful context regarding the study's methodology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

This adds helpful context to what might otherwise be a somewhat abstract journey.

The Guardian

The scenes are simply drawn, and the resolution feels hopeful and realistic; endnotes provide helpful context.

The New York Times - Books

Trump's explanations of his donations are helpful context for understanding at least two curious payments to state attorneys-general.

The Guardian - Opinion

NPR had its correspondents annotating the speech in real time, providing helpful context on the history of the carried-interest debate and the situation in Aleppo.

The New Yorker

Watson said: "We concluded that the current wording of the statement provides helpful context for users and I see no sound statistical reason to change it.

The Guardian

In that sense, their complaining is quite helpful.I have nothing to say about the dueling charts except "Ah, thanks, that's helpful context".

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

The BBC's correspondent In Nigeria's capital, Will Ross -- no slouch at on-the-ground reporting -- has provided some helpful context-setting, reminding us that conditions don't make his job easy.

Huffington Post

I wish Lily Honeycutt could have overheard the rest of my conversation for some helpful added context, because, I mean, no way.

Vice

The most important part of the lecture for me, however, was not the basic statistics, although they were very helpful as context.

Huffington Post

Anderson provided lively interstitial commentary, which is especially helpful in setting the context for excerpts from novels or tales from series that assume familiarity with a shared background.

The New York Times - Books

The first three sections explain the relationships between analytic feminists and the various traditions they share, so are helpful in setting the context for analytic feminism.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "helpful context" judiciously; too much background information can overwhelm the reader. Focus on what is most relevant and necessary for understanding the core message.

Common error

Avoid providing excessive or tangential information under the guise of "helpful context". Ensure all included details directly support and clarify the main topic, rather than distracting from it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "helpful context" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying the noun "context". According to Ludwig AI, it denotes background information or details that are useful in understanding a particular situation, idea, or piece of information. It aims to make the subject matter clearer and easier to grasp.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "helpful context" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase signifying background information that aids in understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is prevalent across various domains, particularly in news and media, science, and formal communications. It is used to enhance clarity and prevent confusion by adding relevant details and explanations. While applicable in informal settings, its emphasis on precision makes it ideal for professional and academic writing. To maximize its effectiveness, use "helpful context" judiciously, focusing on relevant details while avoiding information overload.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

useful background

Emphasizes the practicality and utility of the background information.

relevant information

Highlights the direct connection and pertinence of the information provided.

supportive details

Focuses on how the details bolster or validate the main point.

illuminating insights

Stresses the clarity and understanding that the information brings.

clarifying information

Highlights the role of information in making something easier to understand.

background details

Simply provides supplementary information, with less emphasis on its helpfulness.

essential background

Indicates that the context is necessary for understanding.

valuable perspective

Focuses on the viewpoint or angle the information provides.

instructive setting

Emphasizes the educational value of the context.

informative framework

Stresses the structured approach that the context provides.

FAQs

How can I use "helpful context" in a sentence?

You can use "helpful context" to introduce background information that aids understanding. For example, "To appreciate the significance of this discovery, some "helpful context" is needed regarding the previous research in this field."

What are some alternatives to "helpful context"?

Alternatives include "useful background", "relevant information", or "clarifying information". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. Consider also "supportive details" or "illuminating insights".

What does it mean to provide "helpful context"?

Providing "helpful context" means offering background information, details, or explanations that make a situation, event, or idea easier to understand. It sets the stage and fills in the gaps, preventing confusion and ensuring comprehension.

How is "helpful context" different from just providing "context"?

"Helpful context" specifically emphasizes that the provided background information is useful and aids in understanding. Simply providing "context" doesn't necessarily imply that the information is particularly beneficial or enlightening.