is inexplicable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is inexplicable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that cannot be explained or understood. Example: "The sudden disappearance of the ancient civilization is inexplicable to historians."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some if it is inexplicable.

The New York Times

It is inexplicable, intangible.

The Guardian - Sport

The perpetuation of this farce is inexplicable.

The New York Times

"The delay is inexplicable," Ms. Collins said.

The New York Times

"Their confidence is inexplicable," Mr. Blanton said.

The New York Times

To moderates, this intransigence is inexplicable: Are they crazy?

The New York Times

It is inexplicable, yet it happens all the time.

The New York Times

Scammell's subtitle is inexplicable: Koestler was not a skeptic.

The New Yorker

Furthermore, the highly reflective glass the architect chose is inexplicable.

The New Yorker

The lagging distribution of federal money also is inexplicable.

The New York Times

I wish I could say this is inexplicable.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is inexplicable", ensure the context clearly indicates that the subject truly lacks a clear explanation, rather than simply being complex or poorly understood. Providing context helps emphasize the depth of the mystery or lack of rational basis.

Common error

Avoid using "is inexplicable" when the situation is simply complex or requires further investigation. This phrase is best reserved for scenarios where a rational explanation is genuinely absent, not just elusive. Be precise in your language to avoid exaggerating the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is inexplicable" functions as an adjective phrase, typically serving as a predicate adjective. It describes a noun or subject as being impossible to explain or understand. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in this manner.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is inexplicable" is used to describe something that cannot be explained or understood. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in a wide range of sources, particularly in News & Media and Science contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects a genuine lack of explanation rather than mere complexity. Alternatives like "cannot be explained" or "defies explanation" can provide similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot be explained

Uses a more direct and active construction compared to the original.

is beyond comprehension

Emphasizes the difficulty in understanding something.

defies explanation

Highlights the inability to find a rational explanation.

is unaccountable

Focuses on the lack of accountability or reason.

is unfathomable

Stresses the depth and complexity that makes understanding impossible.

remains a mystery

Implies an unsolved and puzzling nature.

is puzzling

Suggests confusion and difficulty in understanding.

is bewildering

Emphasizes the confusing and disorienting nature.

is perplexing

Similar to puzzling, but with a slightly more formal tone.

is beyond understanding

A more emphatic way of saying something cannot be understood.

FAQs

How can I use "is inexplicable" in a sentence?

The phrase "is inexplicable" is used to describe something that cannot be explained or understood. For example, "The sudden disappearance of the artifact is inexplicable to historians".

What are some alternatives to saying "is inexplicable"?

You can use alternatives like "cannot be explained", "is beyond comprehension", or "defies explanation" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "is inexplicable" and "is mysterious"?

"Is inexplicable" suggests a complete lack of rational explanation, while "is mysterious" implies something is unknown or not easily understood but may still have an explanation. The phrase "is mysterious" does not exclude the possibility of finding an explanation.

Is it appropriate to use "is inexplicable" in formal writing?

Yes, "is inexplicable" can be used in formal writing. It is a relatively neutral phrase that can be used in academic, professional, and journalistic contexts.