overarching explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overarching explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a comprehensive or all-encompassing explanation that ties together various elements or ideas. Example: "The overarching explanation for the phenomenon can be found in the interplay of social, economic, and environmental factors."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The bottom line is there is no clear-cut, overarching explanation for inner-city revitalisation.

City, Territory and Architecture

Is there no overarching explanation for the pattern of catastrophe?

The New Yorker

A Grounded Theory approach was used to code each transcript, later aggregating concept and categories into overarching explanation model.

Plosone

The theory of evolution is most accurately described as… A3. an overarching explanation, supported by much evidence, for how populations change over time.

CBE Life Sciences Education

It's hard to find one overarching explanation for why the Swiss voted as they did.

The New York Times

By the late 1960s, molecular biologists had erected an overarching explanation of how genes work their substance, their structure, their replication, their expression, their regulation or control.

MIT Technology Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

The analysis of qualitative data proceeded in three stages: (i) development of an organising framework for analysing interview transcripts; (ii) synthesis of qualitative data with quantitative findings; (iii) articulation of overarching themes that provided insight and explanation of how self-care is supported in mental health.

BMC Health Services Research

If you're looking for one overarching explanation for the still-terrible job market, it is this great consumer bust.

The New York Times

In most such conversations, overarching themes emerge.

The New York Times

The biggest advantage was overarching, strategic.

The New York Times

Perhaps the overarching question was just: Really?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "overarching explanation" when you want to convey a sense of completeness and comprehensiveness in your explanation. Ensure that the explanation truly covers all relevant aspects of the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "overarching explanation" if the explanation only covers some aspects or lacks sufficient detail. Using it in this context can mislead your audience into thinking that the explanation is more thorough than it actually is.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overarching explanation" functions as a noun phrase. Ludwig AI validates this through numerous examples where it acts as a subject complement or object of a preposition, denoting a comprehensive understanding or theory.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "overarching explanation" serves as a noun phrase that denotes a comprehensive and unifying understanding of a topic. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and functions effectively across various contexts, predominantly in science, news media, and formal business settings. While it's not exceedingly common, it provides a valuable way to articulate the scope and completeness of an explanation. When using this phrase, ensure the explanation truly encompasses all relevant aspects to avoid misleading your audience. Alternatives such as "comprehensive explanation" or "all-encompassing explanation" can be used depending on the nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

comprehensive explanation

Replaces "overarching" with "comprehensive", focusing on the thoroughness of the explanation.

all-encompassing explanation

Emphasizes the inclusive nature of the explanation, covering all aspects.

global explanation

Indicates the explanation applies broadly or universally.

universal explanation

Highlights the general applicability of the explanation.

grand unifying theory

Suggests a single, comprehensive theory that explains everything.

master explanation

Implies a dominant or authoritative explanation.

umbrella explanation

Suggests the explanation covers or protects many different aspects.

general theory

A broad explanation applicable in many contexts.

holistic explanation

Focuses on the interconnectedness of elements in the explanation.

integrated explanation

Indicates that the explanation brings together various elements into a cohesive whole.

FAQs

How can I use "overarching explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "overarching explanation" to introduce a comprehensive theory or concept. For example: "The theory of evolution serves as an "overarching explanation" for the diversity of life on Earth."

What are some alternatives to "overarching explanation"?

Alternatives include "comprehensive explanation", "all-encompassing explanation", or "general theory", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "overarching" versus "comprehensive"?

"Overarching" emphasizes the scope and dominance of the explanation, while "comprehensive" focuses on its thoroughness and detail. Use "overarching" when you want to highlight that the explanation is a central, unifying concept.

Is "overarching explanation" formal or informal?

The phrase "overarching explanation" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, such as academic papers, news articles, or professional reports. It maintains a level of sophistication without being overly technical.