must be explained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "must be explained" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something requires clarification or elaboration. Example: "The complex theory behind quantum mechanics must be explained to ensure a proper understanding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This must be explained at the beginning".

The New York Times

And that's where its meaning and value must be explained.

The Guardian

Thus, trastuzumab-associated cardiotoxicity must be explained by some alternative mechanism.

Seminars in Oncology

A diagnostic problem is characterized by a set of observations that must be explained.

Computer Aided Chemical Engineering

To appreciate its significance, the concept of vector gradient must be explained.

Britannica

If they have a common ancestor, this difference must be explained.

The New Yorker

Western legal systems regard individual ownership as the norm, derogations from which must be explained.

Britannica

Can tweeting really be so difficult that it must be explained in such terms?

The Guardian

So organisms must be explained as organisms, and not as a summation of genes.

The New York Times

But the changes will be enormous and the transformation must be explained and justified.

The Guardian

Woods's world can be an unforgiving place, where anything short of excellence must be explained.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "must be explained", ensure that the context clearly indicates what needs clarification and why it's important. Avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating the subject requiring explanation.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on passive constructions like "must be explained". Vary your sentence structure by sometimes using active voice to make your writing more direct and engaging. For example, instead of "The results must be explained", consider "Researchers must explain the results."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "must be explained" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating a necessity or obligation for something to be clarified or elaborated upon. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Science & Research

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "must be explained" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that signifies the need for clarification or further elaboration. As Ludwig AI confirms, its versatility is evident across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic sources. While generally neutral, its formality can vary. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what requires explanation. Alternative phrases, such as "needs to be elucidated" or "requires clarification", offer similar meanings. By avoiding overuse of the passive voice, writers can enhance the impact and engagement of their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requires clarification

Focuses on the act of making something clearer, highlighting the lack of current understanding.

should be clarified

Indicates a recommendation or suggestion that something would benefit from being made clearer.

needs to be elucidated

Uses a more formal verb, 'elucidated', to emphasize the need for thorough explanation.

calls for elucidation

Similar to 'needs to be elucidated' but uses a more active voice.

demands an explanation

Emphasizes the necessity and urgency of providing an explanation for something.

warrants further explanation

Suggests that the topic deserves a more detailed or extended explanation.

has to be justified

Implies a need to provide reasons or evidence to support or defend something.

is in need of interpretation

Focuses on the act of understanding or explaining the meaning of something.

begs the question

Highlights an underlying question or assumption that needs to be addressed.

necessitates further inquiry

Emphasizes the need for further investigation or questioning to understand something fully.

FAQs

How can I use "must be explained" in a sentence?

Use "must be explained" to indicate that something requires clarification or detailed information. For example: "The sudden change in policy must be explained to the employees."

What are some alternatives to saying "must be explained"?

You can use alternatives such as "needs to be elucidated", "requires clarification", or "should be clarified" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "must be explained" or "needs to be explained"?

Both "must be explained" and "needs to be explained" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. "Must be explained" suggests a stronger obligation or necessity.

What's the difference between "must be explained" and "must be understood"?

"Must be explained" implies a need for someone to provide clarification, while "must be understood" indicates a need for someone to comprehend something. The former focuses on the act of explaining, and the latter focuses on the act of understanding.