invented explanations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "invented explanations" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to explanations that have been created or fabricated, often without basis in fact or reality. Example: "The scientist dismissed the theory as nothing more than invented explanations that lacked empirical support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

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

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

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

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

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

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

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

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "invented explanations", ensure the context clearly indicates that these explanations are not based on fact or reality. This helps avoid misinterpretations and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "invented explanations" when you simply mean hypothetical explanations. "Invented" suggests a deliberate act of deception, while "hypothetical" implies exploring possibilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "invented explanations" functions as a noun phrase where "invented" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "explanations". It typically describes justifications or reasons that have been fabricated or created without a basis in reality. According to Ludwig, this phrase is indeed correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "invented explanations" refers to justifications that are not based on truth or reality but have been fabricated. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is often used to express skepticism or criticism regarding the validity of claims, and is thus more common in analytical contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and academia. Alternatives such as "fabricated explanations" or "concocted explanations" can be used to convey similar meanings. When employing "invented explanations", it's crucial to ensure the context clearly indicates a lack of factual basis to avoid misinterpretation and strengthen your argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fabricated explanations

Emphasizes the act of consciously creating a false explanation.

concocted explanations

Suggests a more elaborate and imaginative fabrication.

manufactured explanations

Implies a systematic and deliberate creation of false explanations.

trumped-up explanations

Indicates that the explanations are exaggerated or baseless.

contrived explanations

Highlights the artificial and unnatural quality of the explanations.

fictitious explanations

Clearly denotes that the explanations are not based on reality.

false justifications

Shifts the focus to the act of justifying something with untrue reasons.

unfounded reasons

Stresses the lack of a solid basis for the explanations.

made-up stories

Indicates a complete fabrication of events or details.

imaginary accounts

Highlights the lack of real-world grounding for the accounts.

FAQs

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

You can use "invented explanations" to describe situations where someone is creating false or misleading reasons for something. For instance, "The company used "invented explanations" to justify the layoffs".

What are some alternatives to "invented explanations"?

Alternatives include phrases like "fabricated explanations", "concocted explanations", or "manufactured explanations". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "invented explanations" and "hypothetical explanations"?

"Invented explanations" implies a deliberate creation of false reasons, while "hypothetical explanations" refer to possible explanations that are being explored or considered.

Is it always negative to use "invented explanations"?

Yes, the term "invented explanations" typically carries a negative connotation, as it suggests deception or a lack of truthfulness. It's generally used to criticize or express skepticism.