it explained that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it explained that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a source or text that provides clarification or information about a particular topic. Example: "The report was thorough; it explained that the new policy would take effect next month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It explained that was "no evidence" of any offences under 2005 animal by products regulations and insufficient evidence for prosecution under earlier by-product regulations, and 2006 food hygiene regulations.

The Guardian

Then, it explained that its Russian subsidiary was not able to host accounts for political parties or causes in the country, because it required complex procedures to validate people's identity.

Independent

It explained that this is how its system works for processing complimentary upgrades and that he would be refunded – which he was eventually.

The Guardian - Money

There, it explained that Hachette was one of its 70,000 suppliers and that the two had been unable to reach acceptable terms (without disclosing what was being negotiated).

Los Angeles Times

It explained that she was destitute and asking for help or money.

The New York Times

It explained that Undo lets you take back your last swipe.

The Guardian - Tech

It explained that if you want to be a fashion designer, you could just go and do it.

Independent

It explained that it handled 177 billion pieces of mail a year and said that "an occasional mishap will occur".

Independent

But then it explained that all of that gain, and more, came from changing definitions, not new jobs.

The New York Times

It explained that food still had to be cooked and that even when irradiated it could contaminate other food.

The New York Times - Food

It explained that "hello, world" was one of the first phrases that students of computer coding learn to write.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it explained that", ensure the 'it' clearly refers to a specific source (e.g. a document, a person, an organization) to maintain clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "it explained that" when the 'it' has no clear reference. This can confuse the reader and weaken the clarity of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it explained that" functions as a reporting clause, introducing an explanation or providing information attributed to a specific source. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. Examples show it connecting a subject (often a document or organization) to an explanation of a situation or decision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it explained that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used reporting clause for introducing explanations or providing information attributed to a source. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and versatile. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it maintains a neutral to professional tone. When using the phrase, clarity of the subject is key to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases such as "it clarified that" or "it stated that" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it clarified that

Replaces "explained" with "clarified", suggesting a removal of ambiguity or simplification of information.

it stated that

Substitutes "explained" with "stated", indicating a formal declaration or announcement.

it indicated that

Replaces "explained" with "indicated", suggesting a less direct or explicit form of communication.

it detailed that

Changes "explained" to "detailed", emphasizing a comprehensive and thorough description.

it described that

Replaces "explained" with "described", focusing on providing a depiction or account.

it elucidated that

Substitutes "explained" with "elucidated", implying a more in-depth and enlightening clarification.

it justified that

Replaces "explained" with "justified", indicating a rationale or defense for something.

it rationalized that

Changes "explained" to "rationalized", suggesting an attempt to make something seem reasonable or logical.

it accounted for that

Replaces "explained" with "accounted for", focusing on providing a reason or cause for something.

the reason given was

Changes the entire phrase to a passive construction expressing the reason provided.

FAQs

How can I use "it explained that" in a sentence?

Use "it explained that" to introduce an explanation or clarification from a specific source. For example, "The report "it explained that" the budget cuts were necessary."

What are some alternatives to "it explained that"?

You can use alternatives like "it clarified that", "it stated that", or "it indicated that" depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "it explained that" formal or informal?

"It explained that" is generally considered neutral and appropriate for both formal and informal writing, particularly in news reporting and informative contexts. However, in highly formal or academic writing, you might prefer a more precise verb like "it elucidated that".

What is the difference between "it explained that" and "it argued that"?

"It explained that" suggests providing clarification or reasons, while "it argued that" implies presenting a viewpoint or defending a position. Use "it explained that" when the source is clarifying something, and "it argued that" when the source is making a case.