if it explains

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if it explains" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing whether something provides clarity or understanding about a topic or situation. Example: "I will accept your argument if it explains the reasons behind your decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

This melancholic note of resignation resounds throughout The Festival of Insignificance, and one wonders if it explains the long wait between Kundera novels.

Independent

People often take The United States of Ambition down from the shelf and try to figure out if it explains events happening now.

Harvard Business Review

But what may be a national vice can also be a dramatic liability: only in the second act do we learn the dark, transgressive secret at the heart of Harper's marriage, which, even if it explains her erratic behaviour, is a long time for information to be withheld.

The Guardian

Asking about reimbursement can be culturally delicate, so Ellison recommends having "a look at the institution's website to see if it explains their policy for recruitment".

Science Magazine

Macroeconomics can surely inform policymakers, but it shouldn't be the ultimate driver of their decisions as if it explains the laws of the universe.

Forbes

For that reason "A form is beautiful, one might say, if it demands no explanation, or if it explains itself without a concept" ("Kallias" letter of 18 February 1793, p. 155).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

But Simon argued, successfully, that the scene had to stay in, because over time Omar's importance would become clear, and because the show would lose its insider feel if it explained too much.

The New Yorker

They talk about "process" as if it explained something important.

The New York Times

The hair was important: Marian mentioned it more than once, as if it explained everything.

The New Yorker

That would happen quite a bit if it explained even a fraction of bigfoot sightings.

The Washington Post

They said it with such finality, as if it explained something.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "if it explains", ensure that the 'it' clearly refers to a specific subject or concept to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify what 'it' is before using the phrase for better clarity.

Common error

Avoid stacking multiple conditional clauses with "if it explains" in one sentence. Break down complex ideas into simpler sentences to improve readability and comprehension.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it explains" functions as a conditional conjunction, introducing a subordinate clause that specifies a condition under which something provides an explanation or reason. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if it explains" functions as a conditional conjunction used to specify conditions under which something offers an explanation. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts. When using the phrase, be certain that the 'it' is clear and avoid overuse in complex sentences. Consider alternatives like "if it clarifies" or "provided that it explains" to adjust the tone and emphasis. The phrase's versatility makes it suitable for a range of registers, from formal to neutral.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if it clarifies

Focuses on making something clearer, rather than providing a complete explanation.

if it justifies

Emphasizes whether something provides a valid reason or excuse.

assuming it explains

Adds an element of assumption or supposition.

provided that it explains

Introduces a more formal or conditional tone.

in the event that it explains

Presents a more hypothetical or less likely scenario.

should it explain

Offers a more tentative or polite way to introduce the explanation.

if it gives reason for

Shifts focus to providing a 'reason for' something rather than a complete explanation.

if it sheds light on

Indicates providing insight rather than a full account.

if it offers insight into

Similar to 'sheds light on', but slightly more formal.

on the condition that it explains

Introduces a strong condition or requirement for the explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "if it explains" in a sentence?

You can use "if it explains" to introduce a condition under which something provides understanding or clarification. For example, "I will accept the theory "if it explains" the observed anomalies."

What's a more formal way to say "if it explains"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "provided that it clarifies" or "on the condition that it elucidates." These alternatives add a layer of formality appropriate for academic or professional contexts.

Is there a difference between "if it explains" and "if it clarifies"?

While both phrases indicate a conditional relationship, "if it explains" implies providing a comprehensive understanding, whereas "if it clarifies" suggests making something easier to understand. The choice depends on whether you need a full explanation or just better clarity.

Which is correct, "if it explains" or "if that explains"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different uses. "If it explains" refers to a specific thing providing an explanation, while "if that explains" refers back to something previously mentioned. Choose the one that fits the context best.