just explains

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just explains" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that something simply clarifies or provides information about a topic without going into detail. Example: "The article just explains the basic principles of quantum mechanics without delving into complex theories."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

It doesn't offer solace, it just explains a situation.

The New York Times - Arts

She just explains that the procedure which ranges from a symbolic nick, to the removal of all or part of a girl's clitoris, to infibulation (sewing up the labia)—is not in the Bible, nor the Koran; nor do culture or law require it.

The Economist

This remarkable pattern just explains the dependence of the heavy metal ions in soils on their buffering properties towards pH of the soil solution.

Ecological Processes

It just explains it.

Huffington Post

But antipathy to Clinton just explains why people would vote Republican.

Vice

As for North Carolina, there is a packet, but it just explains the process and what you must do.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

We just explain the situation".

Independent

Just explain to me.

The New York Times

You just explain, explain and re-explain".

The New York Times

Finally, she just explained the concept of virginity straight out.

The New Yorker

TS: Can you just explain what this World Economic Forum thing is?

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "just explains" when you want to indicate that something simply clarifies or provides information without going into extensive detail. For instance, "The guide "just explains" the basic principles of the theory."

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "just explains" if you need to convey a more detailed or nuanced understanding. Consider alternatives like "thoroughly elucidates" or "comprehensively details" when greater depth is required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just explains" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of providing a basic or simple explanation. As noted by Ludwig, it suggests a clarification or description without extensive detail. The examples showcase its use in various contexts where a straightforward explanation is given.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "just explains" is a verb phrase used to indicate a basic or straightforward explanation of something. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used to provide clarity without going into extensive detail. The register is typically neutral, leaning towards informal. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific contexts. When using "just explains", ensure that it aligns with the level of detail required and consider alternatives like "simply clarifies" or "merely elucidates" for nuanced contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simply clarifies

Replaces "just explains" with a more concise expression emphasizing the act of making something clear.

merely elucidates

Substitutes "just explains" with a more formal term that highlights the act of bringing light to a topic.

plainly states

Offers a straightforward alternative, focusing on the act of declaring something without embellishment.

simply indicates

Replaces "just explains" with a phrase that denotes a basic level of pointing something out.

only describes

Substitutes with a focus on limiting the action to mere description, without interpretation.

merely outlines

Emphasizes the act of providing a basic framework or overview, instead of detailed explanation.

briefly covers

Highlights the conciseness of the explanation, suggesting it doesn't delve into details.

essentially conveys

Focuses on the core message or idea that is being communicated by the explanation.

basically reveals

Indicates the uncovering of information without necessarily providing a comprehensive explanation.

primarily details

Substitutes "just explains" with an expression that emphasizes the act of presenting specific information.

FAQs

How can I use "just explains" in a sentence?

Use "just explains" to indicate that something provides a basic clarification or description without going into great detail. For instance, "The manual "just explains" the initial setup process".

What are some alternatives to "just explains"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "simply clarifies", "merely elucidates", or "plainly states" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it ever inappropriate to use "just explains"?

While generally acceptable, "just explains" might not be suitable in contexts requiring a more thorough or nuanced explanation. In such cases, consider using stronger verbs like "elucidates", "details", or "analyzes".

What's the difference between "just explains" and "thoroughly explains"?

"Just explains" indicates a simple, basic explanation, whereas "thoroughly explains" implies a comprehensive and detailed explanation. The choice depends on the depth of information being conveyed.