i would like to be explained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I would like to be explained" is not correct in standard English usage.
It is typically used incorrectly when someone wants to request an explanation about something. Example: "I would like to be explained the process of how this machine works."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I'm aware that certain elements of contemporary existence make me less of a person than I would like to be," explained Mr. McGinley, who like Mr. Blake sported a big, shaggy mop in the old days but now has a head of salt-and-pepper hair.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

I would like to be like him, someone who can explain our country and why it is like it is with a simplicity like no one else".

The Guardian - Sport

"I would like to be more informed about the referendum before making a choice," she explains.

BBC

"I would like to be like him.

Independent

"These are people who have self-selected and said, 'Yes, I'd like to be contacted,'" explains Davis-Acey.

Cornell University

"Federica would like to be three rows back, but I want to be immersed," he explained.

The New Yorker

Simply explain that you would like to be a singer and that home is a great place to start.

WikiHow

"They would like to be like you.

The New York Times - Sports

HEIKE BRUCH: First I would like to explain that there are three kinds of overacceleration.

Harvard Business Review

I would like to explain why it happened, and why it is likely to happen again.

Forbes

This is the world I would like to explain".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking clarification, use the phrase "I would like an explanation" or "Could you explain this to me?" for better grammatical correctness.

Common error

Don't use "I would like to be explained". Instead, structure your request actively: "I would like someone to explain..." or "I would like an explanation of...".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I would like to be explained" is an attempt to express a desire for clarification. However, it deviates from standard English grammar. Ludwig AI suggests using more grammatically sound alternatives like "I would like an explanation."

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I would like to be explained" is grammatically incorrect, though Ludwig shows it appears occasionally in varied sources. The intended meaning is to request an explanation, but standard English dictates alternatives such as "I would like an explanation" or "Could you explain this to me?". As Ludwig AI explains, the incorrect phrasing stems from a misuse of passive voice. Therefore, when seeking clarification, it's best to use these grammatically correct alternatives to ensure clarity and professionalism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I would like an explanation

Uses a noun phrase instead of a passive verb construction, making it grammatically correct.

Could you explain this to me

Rephrases the request as a direct question for clarification.

Can you explain this to me

Similar to the previous one, but with a slight change in tone, making it more informal.

I would appreciate an explanation

Expresses the request more formally using "appreciate."

I need clarification on this

Indicates the need for clearer understanding using the word "clarification."

Please explain this

Directly requests an explanation in a polite way.

I'd like you to explain

Shifts the focus to the person providing the explanation.

I want an explanation

A more direct and less polite way of requesting an explanation.

Explain it to me

A very direct and potentially impolite way of asking for an explanation.

Tell me more about this

Asks for additional information, implying a need for explanation.

FAQs

How do I properly request an explanation?

Instead of saying "I would like to be explained", use grammatically correct alternatives such as "I would like an explanation" or "Can you "explain this to me"?".

What is wrong with the phrase "I would like to be explained"?

The phrase "I would like to be explained" uses an incorrect passive construction. It should be rephrased to actively request the explanation, such as "I would like an explanation".

Are there formal ways to ask for an explanation?

Yes, you can use phrases like "I would appreciate an explanation" or "Could you provide clarification on this?" These are more formal than simply asking "Can you "explain this"?".

Is "I want to be explained" correct?

No, "I want to be explained" is also grammatically incorrect for the same reasons as "I would like to be explained". Use "I want an explanation" or "I want someone to "explain this to me" instead".