let me explain that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "let me explain that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify or elaborate on a point you have just made. Example: "I understand there may be some confusion about the process. Let me explain that further to ensure everyone is on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Let me explain that last word: those of us who do still remember ought to give thanks every day for the existence of that island separated from us only by a narrow strip of sea.

The Guardian - Books

Let me explain that quickly.

TechCrunch

Let me explain that more.

Huffington Post

For those who did not catch the ideological meaning behind this statement, let me explain that scientists noticed that the free markets are never perfectly free.

Huffington Post

Let me explain that I have no vendetta against Andy Coulson.

The Guardian

And when King asked, "Has the Senator been very sympathetic?" she responded, "Yes.... Let me explain that.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Suthers: Now, as to the issue that is on the ballot, let me explain what that is.

Huffington Post

Let me explain how that came about.

The New York Times

But let me explain what that is.

Huffington Post

Let me explain how that works.

Huffington Post

HERMAN CAIN: Well, let me explain what that means.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the formality of the context. While generally acceptable, more formal situations might benefit from alternatives like "allow me to clarify that".

Common error

Avoid using "let me explain that" excessively in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and condescending. Vary your introductory phrases to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let me explain that" functions as a discourse marker. It signals the speaker's intention to provide clarification or further detail on a preceding statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "let me explain that" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that serves as a discourse marker, signaling an intent to clarify or elaborate on a previous statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While its register is generally neutral, it's more commonly found in news and media contexts. Consider alternatives like "allow me to clarify that" or "let me elaborate on that" for more formal settings, and avoid overusing the phrase to maintain writing clarity and prevent sounding condescending. Ludwig provides several examples of its usage across various domains, reinforcing its utility in ensuring clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let me elaborate on that

Focuses on providing more details, substituting explain for elaborate.

allow me to clarify that

Uses "allow" instead of "let", suggesting a more formal tone.

let me clarify that point

Substitutes "point" for "that", making the reference more specific.

let me rephrase that

Suggests expressing the same idea in different words for better understanding.

permit me to elaborate on that

Replaces "explain" with "elaborate", indicating a more detailed explanation.

allow me to reword that

Uses "allow" for a more formal tone and replaces "explain" with "reword", suggesting a change in wording.

let me put it another way

Offers an alternative phrasing of the concept.

to clarify, let me add that

Introduces a clarification by adding more information.

let me give you some background

Suggests providing context before explaining further.

let me break that down for you

Indicates simplifying a complex topic for easier comprehension.

FAQs

How can I use "let me explain that" in a sentence?

You can use "let me explain that" to introduce a clarification or further detail on a point you've just made. For example, "The data might seem confusing, "let me explain that" the scale is logarithmic".

What are some alternatives to "let me explain that"?

Some alternatives include "allow me to clarify that", "let me elaborate on that", or "let me rephrase that", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "let me explain that" formal or informal?

"Let me explain that" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for most contexts. However, in very formal settings, alternatives like "allow me to clarify that" may be more appropriate.

When should I use "let me explain that" versus "let me explain why"?

Use "let me explain that" when you're clarifying a statement or situation. Use "let me explain why" when you're providing the reasons or causes behind something. For example, "The results were unexpected, "let me explain that" the methodology was flawed" versus "The project failed, "let me explain why" the budget was insufficient".