it was explained that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was explained that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to explain something that has already been explained to someone else. For example: "My supervisor explained that the project must be completed by next month, and it was explained that all deadlines must be strictly adhered to."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And a remarkable 64 percent favored the idea of a nuclear-free zone, even when it was explained that this would mean Israel giving up its nuclear weapons.

The New York Times

It was explained that Mr. Peet also was dead.

The New Yorker

It was explained that he would be allocated two protection officers, two drivers, and two cars.

The New Yorker

It was explained that the hotel follows a subtle jazz theme (as in Duke Ellington).

The Guardian - Travel

Before the corporate ski trip, it was explained that "if you wear fur, they will kill you".Google is a paradise only for some, she argues.

The Economist

It was explained that, because of the unique nature of the assignment and the imponderable risks involved, all the officers protecting him would be volunteers.

The New Yorker

When it was explained that he was taking the day off, she ever afterwards would remark plaintively: "Of course, Tim doesn't work on Fridays".

The Guardian

Over a quick drink, it was explained that I had been checked out and was going to be trusted with a subvertising demonstration.

The Guardian

It was explained that starting this year there would be scanners and they were on the other side of the room, and that there was … a line.

The New Yorker

It was explained that the Bank had sent a paper to the government to outline a possible plan to recapitalise the banking system.

The Guardian - Business

Mr. Mohring said it was explained that the Weeks house had landmark status that required approval of Oyster Bay Town's Landmark Preservation Commission before any changes were made.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was explained that", ensure the context clearly indicates who provided the explanation to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "it was explained that" is grammatically correct, overuse can lead to a passive writing style. Consider rephrasing to use an active voice for a more direct and engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was explained that" functions as a reporting verb in the passive voice, used to introduce an explanation or justification. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it effectively conveys that information has been provided or clarified.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

31%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was explained that" serves as a versatile tool for conveying information that has been previously clarified or justified. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, from scientific research to news reporting, make it a reliable choice. While the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication, writers should consider alternatives for a more active voice. With its frequency and authoritative presence, "it was explained that" stands as a staple in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was clarified that

Replaces 'explained' with 'clarified', implying a reduction of ambiguity rather than a general explanation.

it was noted that

Substitutes 'explained' with 'noted', suggesting a formal observation or recording of information.

it was indicated that

Uses 'indicated' instead of 'explained', implying a less direct form of communication or suggestion.

it was revealed that

Replaces 'explained' with 'revealed', suggesting the uncovering of previously unknown information.

it was understood that

Shifts the focus to comprehension rather than the act of explaining.

the reason given was that

Introduces a stated reason, providing a more direct explanation.

the rationale was that

Highlights the logical basis or justification for something.

the understanding was that

Focuses on a mutual agreement or assumption that was in place.

the interpretation was that

Indicates a specific way of understanding or construing information.

it emerged that

Suggests that information gradually came to light, rather than being directly explained.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it was explained that" to sound more active?

You can use alternatives like "the report "indicated that"", "the speaker "clarified that"", or "they "mentioned that"" depending on the context.

Is "it was explained to me that" grammatically different from "it was explained that"?

While both are correct, "it was explained to me that" specifies the recipient of the explanation, whereas "it was explained that" implies a general explanation without a specific recipient mentioned.

What's the difference between "it was explained that" and "it was believed that"?

"It was explained that" implies a conveyance of information or a reason, whereas "it was believed that" suggests a held opinion or assumption. They are not interchangeable.

Can "it was explained that" be used in formal and informal contexts?

Yes, "it was explained that" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, although more direct alternatives may be preferred in informal settings.