i try to explain

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of sentence "I try to explain" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, "I try to explain why I can't attend the meeting, but it's difficult to put into words."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I try to explain.

The New York Times

"But he's — " I try to explain.

The New Yorker

"I try to explain feelings with metaphor.

The New York Times - Arts

"But he's—" I try to explain.

The New Yorker

I try to explain this to people; nobody gets it.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I try to explain that it's not the new people.

The New York Times

I try to explain to people, this isn't your fault".

The New York Times - Health

"I try to explain that I'm a feminist, too.

The New York Times - Magazine

I try to explain the British phenomenon of Nigella Lawson.

The Guardian

"Whenever I try to explain what's happening in American politics..

The New York Times

I try to explain how, technically, I'm right.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I try to explain", ensure the context clearly indicates what you are attempting to explain. Providing specific details or examples will enhance clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly stating that you are trying to explain without actually providing the explanation. Instead, focus on presenting the information clearly and concisely, rather than emphasizing the act of trying.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I try to explain" functions as an introductory phrase, signaling the speaker's or writer's intention to provide an explanation or clarification. It sets the stage for the information that follows, as demonstrated in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I try to explain" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce an explanation or clarification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, although most frequently found in news and media sources. When using this phrase, it's important to follow it with a clear and concise explanation to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "I attempt to clarify" or "let me explain" can be used to add variety to your writing. Therefore, ensure that the explanation is clear, specific, and avoids overuse of the introductory phrase itself.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I am trying to clarify

Changes from simple present to present continuous tense. More on ongoing effort.

I attempt to clarify

Uses "attempt" instead of "try", emphasizing a more formal or deliberate effort to explain.

I aim to clarify

Uses "aim" to suggest an intention or goal to make something clearer.

I seek to clarify

Employs "seek" to convey an active effort to bring clarity to a topic.

I endeavor to elucidate

Replaces "try" with "endeavor" and "explain" with "elucidate", indicating a more sophisticated and thorough effort to make something clear.

I would like to explain

Adds politeness, softening the tone of the statement.

I'm going to explain

Uses a future tense construction to indicate an intention to explain something.

I will explain

Uses the future tense to state intent to explain. More direct and formal.

Let me explain

Offers a direct and concise way to introduce an explanation.

Allow me to elaborate

Offers a more detailed explanation. "Elaborate" implies expanding on details.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "I try to explain"?

You can use alternatives like "I attempt to clarify", "I aim to clarify", or "let me explain" depending on the context.

How can I use "I try to explain" effectively in writing?

Follow "I try to explain" with a clear and concise explanation. Avoid vague or ambiguous language that could confuse the reader. Examples can enhance understanding.

Is it better to say "I try to explain" or "I am trying to explain"?

Both are grammatically correct. "I try to explain" implies a general or habitual effort, while "I am trying to explain" suggests an ongoing, current effort.

What is the difference between "I try to explain" and "I explain"?

"I explain" states that you are providing an explanation, while "I try to explain" indicates an attempt, which may or may not be fully successful. Use "I explain" when you are confident that your explanation is clear and complete.