more plausible explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more plausible explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a theory or reasoning that seems more believable or likely than others in a given context. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, I believe that the more plausible explanation for the incident is that it was an accident rather than intentional."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Domestic factors are the more plausible explanation.

The Economist

He furrows his brow and tries to think of another, more plausible explanation for his boss.

The New York Times

A more plausible explanation is that this is really about fashion or culture.

The Guardian - Sport

A more plausible explanation is that banks feel no great urgency to act.

The New York Times

But as oil prices have tumbled, another factor has appeared as a more plausible explanation.

The Guardian - Business

A more plausible explanation is that owning a newspaper is a source of prestige and influence.

The Economist

It's fun to get all patriotic and offended, but there is another and more plausible explanation.

The Economist

Prejudice thus seems a more plausible explanation for what Dr Leslie and Dr Cimpian have observed.

The Economist

Marcouch has a more plausible explanation for the difficulties in his area, where the immigrants are mainly Moroccan and Turkish.

The New Yorker

A more plausible explanation may be that Tiki came under the influence of Ginny, whom he met in college.

The New Yorker

The more plausible explanation is that Colorado has found an easier way of leaving no child behind.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting competing explanations, use "more plausible explanation" to clearly signal which one you find more convincing based on available evidence.

Common error

Avoid using "more plausible explanation" when expressing purely subjective opinions without supporting evidence. In such cases, "preferred explanation" or "personal interpretation" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more plausible explanation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It indicates a specific reason or account that is considered more believable or likely compared to others. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more plausible explanation" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to present a more believable reason or account. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It's frequently found in news, science, and academic contexts, signaling its broad applicability. When employing this phrase, ensure that your explanation is indeed well-supported by evidence, differentiating it from mere subjective preference. Remember to consider alternative phrases like "more credible account" or "more likely rationale", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more credible account

Focuses on the believability and trustworthiness of the explanation.

more convincing interpretation

Emphasizes the persuasiveness of the explanation.

more likely rationale

Highlights the reason or justification behind something.

more reasonable hypothesis

Suggests the explanation is based on logic and good sense.

more valid justification

Stresses the soundness and legitimacy of the explanation.

better supported theory

Indicates that the explanation has stronger evidence backing it.

more acceptable alibi

Implies the explanation serves to excuse or defend an action.

more well founded assumption

Suggests the explanation is based on solid grounds or evidence.

superior inference

Focuses on the process of drawing a conclusion that is considered of higher quality.

more accurate assessment

Implies a precise and correct understanding of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "more plausible explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "more plausible explanation" to introduce a theory or reason that seems more believable than another, such as: "The "more plausible explanation" is that he simply forgot, rather than intentionally ignoring your request."

What's a good alternative to "more plausible explanation"?

Depending on the context, consider using alternatives like "more credible account", "more convincing interpretation", or "more likely rationale".

Is it better to say "more plausible explanation" or "more probable explanation"?

While both are similar, "more plausible explanation" emphasizes believability and coherence, whereas "more probable explanation" focuses on the likelihood of something being true. The best choice depends on the specific context.

How does "more plausible explanation" differ from "possible explanation"?

"Possible explanation" simply means something could be true. "More plausible explanation" suggests it's the most likely or believable among multiple possibilities.