invented explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "invented explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a rationale or reasoning that has been fabricated or created without basis in fact. Example: "The scientist dismissed the theory as merely an invented explanation that lacked empirical support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

What's more, we hold on to these invented explanations as having intrinsic value of their own.

The New Yorker

Republicans usually don't want to acknowledge that their purpose is to turn away voters, especially when race is involved, so they invented an explanation, claiming that stricter ID laws are necessary to prevent voter fraud.

The New York Times

By the time he reached the second floor of the exhibition, he had invented an explanation for the blood: a story about fighting off forty Klansmen who disapproved of the art.

The New Yorker

I invented rational explanations, and he sort of believed me; I was educated.

The New Yorker

Thrilled and embarrassed at the same time, she had to invent an explanation, all while keeping her face in check.

Nature

Her neck had been broken by a dog, Ann had told her daughter, inventing an explanation, a chase among members of the natural order that had ended tragically.

The New Yorker

And Los Angeles Times education reporters caught minor flak in September on Numbers Rule Your World, a statistics blog that has taken to shouting "Story time!" when they think a reporter has jumped the shark, going from data to inventing explanations or causes.

Harvard University

When Dr. Soder started her business in 1986, the phrase "executive coaching" had yet to be invented; no shorthand explanation existed for what she was then calling executive consulting.

The New York Times

The problem is that abduction is in general not a valid inference because it could invent arbitrary explanations of the mismatch.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

But to state that sounds arbitrary, so they invent reasonable explanations for their preference".

Environmental Health Perspectives

It may have been simpler then for the imagination to roam — the world man invented, and his explanations for it, was closer to being new; the barrier between conscious and unconscious thought may have been less defended — so perhaps Jacob had a vision.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "invented explanation", ensure the context clearly indicates that the explanation is not based on fact or evidence. This adds emphasis to the deceptive or imaginative nature of the rationale.

Common error

Avoid presenting an "invented explanation" as a legitimate or valid reason without proper disclaimers. Doing so can mislead your audience and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "invented explanation" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "invented" modifies the noun "explanation". It describes an explanation that has been fabricated or made up. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "invented explanation" is a grammatically correct and usable term in English, albeit relatively rare in occurrence. According to Ludwig AI, it's used to describe a fabricated or made-up rationale, typically carrying a negative connotation. Its usage spans across news, scientific, and academic contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity about the deceptive nature of the explanation to maintain credibility and avoid misleading your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

made-up reason

A simpler way of saying "invented explanation".

fabricated justification

Emphasizes the deceptive creation of a reason.

contrived rationale

Highlights the artificial and planned nature of the explanation.

manufactured account

Suggests the explanation was carefully made up, often to deceive.

fictitious account

Emphasizes that the explanation is a product of imagination, not reality.

concocted story

Implies the explanation is elaborate and possibly far-fetched.

false pretense

Focuses on the deceptive nature and lack of truth in the explanation.

trumped-up excuse

Suggests a weak and easily challenged explanation.

groundless claim

Highlights the lack of factual support for the explanation.

imaginary cause

Focuses on the unreal and fanciful basis of the explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "invented explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "invented explanation" to describe a reason or justification that has been fabricated or created without a basis in fact. For example, "The politician's claim was seen as an "invented explanation" to deflect criticism".

What are some alternatives to saying "invented explanation"?

Alternatives include "fabricated justification", "contrived rationale", or "made-up reason". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to use the phrase "invented explanation"?

Yes, the phrase "invented explanation" typically carries a negative connotation, suggesting deceit or a lack of truth. It implies that the explanation is not genuine or supported by evidence.

What's the difference between "invented explanation" and "plausible explanation"?

"Invented explanation" implies a lack of truth and fabrication, whereas "plausible explanation" suggests that the explanation is believable or reasonable, even if it may not be entirely accurate.