only possible explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only possible explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize that there is no other explanation that could account for a particular situation or phenomenon. Example: "Given the evidence presented, the only possible explanation for the sudden increase in sales is the new marketing strategy implemented last quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Only possible explanation.

The New York Times

That's the only possible explanation.

The Guardian - Film

But immigration is not the only possible explanation.

The New York Times

'The only possible explanation is cost,' she added.

The Guardian

That is the only possible explanation for her bewildering approach to writing, at least.

The Guardian

That's the only possible explanation for the abject lunacy that has passed for food so far.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It's the only possible explanation why Downton Abbey has won so many Emmys.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Policing, of course, is not the only possible explanation for the safer streets.

The New York Times

"The only possible explanation for Court TV doing this is they must be desperate to get some higher-rated programming".

The New York Times

I suppose he thought that this was the only possible explanation for our putting up a fight.

The New Yorker

For such critics, the only possible explanation for evangelicals' continuing faith in Trump is some combination of ignorance and hypocrisy.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only possible explanation" when you want to definitively state that there is no other reasonable cause or reason for a situation. This phrase adds emphasis and conviction to your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "only possible explanation" when there's even a slight chance of alternative factors or explanations. Overusing the phrase can weaken your credibility if counter-evidence emerges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only possible explanation" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or object complement. It identifies the single reason or cause deemed viable for a specific event or situation. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "only possible explanation" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to assert that there's a sole, credible reason for an event or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans across news, science, and encyclopedic contexts. While the phrase is effective for conveying conviction, it's important to use it judiciously, ensuring strong evidence supports the claim, to avoid undermining credibility. Related phrases like "sole explanation" and "most plausible explanation" offer alternative ways to phrase the idea depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sole explanation

Emphasizes that there is only one explanation, similar to the original phrase but using a single adjective.

only conceivable explanation

Indicates that no other explanation is imaginable or reasonable.

the only logical explanation

Highlights that the explanation is based on reason and sound judgment.

single possible cause

Focuses on identifying the one cause that could have led to a certain outcome.

unquestionably the reason

Asserts that the reason is beyond doubt or dispute.

the most plausible explanation

Suggests the explanation is the most believable and likely to be true.

only credible account

Emphasizes the believability and reliability of the explanation.

the sole determinant

Highlights that this factor is the only thing that decides the outcome.

no other explanation fits

States directly that alternative explanations are inadequate or unsuitable.

the definitive answer

Presents the explanation as the final and conclusive solution.

FAQs

How do I use "only possible explanation" in a sentence?

Use "only possible explanation" to assert that a particular reason or cause is the single credible factor accounting for a specific outcome or circumstance. For example: "Given the lack of other options, a data breach is the "only possible explanation" for the system failure."

What can I say instead of "only possible explanation"?

Alternatives include "sole explanation", "only conceivable explanation", or "most plausible explanation". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it too strong to use "only possible explanation"?

The strength of "only possible explanation" depends on the context and the evidence available. Use it judiciously when you have strong evidence to back your claim. Otherwise, consider "most likely explanation" or "primary reason".

What's the difference between "only possible explanation" and "most likely explanation"?

"Only possible explanation" suggests there are no other valid options, while "most likely explanation" implies that other explanations might exist but are less probable. The former is more definitive, the latter more tentative.