plausible explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

"plausible explanation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it whenever you need to explain a reasonable, logical basis for something. For example, "The meteorologist's plausible explanation for the sudden drop in temperature was that a cold front had passed through the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is a plausible explanation.

Harvard Business Review

Is there another plausible explanation?

The New York Times

But there's another plausible explanation.

The New Yorker

This is one plausible explanation.

The New York Times

Domestic factors are the more plausible explanation.

The Economist

"There is no other plausible explanation".

The New York Times

No plausible explanation for this was found.

Transfusion and Apheresis Science

Different lattice mismatch is a plausible explanation.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Here's John Harris to offer a(nother) plausible explanation.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"The only plausible explanation is e-cigarettes," he said.

The New York Times - Science

In each instance, Baehrel has a plausible explanation.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a "plausible explanation", ensure it is supported by evidence or logical reasoning to enhance its credibility.

Common error

Avoid presenting an explanation as definitively true when it is merely "plausible". Acknowledge alternative explanations to maintain objectivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "plausible explanation" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object or subject complement in a sentence, describing the nature of an explanation. According to Ludwig, it is considered grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

39%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "plausible explanation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes a reason or account that appears believable but isn't necessarily proven. Ludwig confirms its correctness and wide applicability. It is most commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, suggesting its usefulness in both journalistic reporting and scientific discourse. While "plausible explanation" is versatile, it's important to ensure any presented explanation is well-supported and not overstated. Alternatives such as "reasonable explanation" or "believable explanation" may be suitable depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reasonable explanation

Emphasizes the logical and understandable aspect of the explanation.

believable explanation

Focuses on the credibility and trustworthiness of the explanation.

credible rationale

Highlights the sound reasoning behind the explanation.

convincing account

Stresses the persuasive power of the explanation.

tenable justification

Indicates that the explanation is defensible and can be maintained.

logical reasoning

Focuses on the rational and coherent aspect of the explanation's basis.

supportable theory

Highlights the evidence and validation behind the explanation as a theory.

likely scenario

Shifts the focus from the explanation itself to the possible events.

valid interpretation

Emphasizes that the explanation is a correct and acceptable way of understanding something.

workable solution

Suggests the explanation provides a practical way forward or resolves an issue.

FAQs

What does "plausible explanation" mean?

A "plausible explanation" is an account or reason that appears believable and likely to be true, even if not definitively proven.

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

You might say, "The detective offered a /s/plausible+explanation for the crime, but it lacked solid evidence."

What are some alternatives to "plausible explanation"?

Alternatives include "reasonable explanation", "believable explanation", or "credible rationale", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the term "plausible explanation"?

Use "plausible explanation" when presenting a reason that seems likely, but for which you don't have definitive proof. It suggests a possibility rather than a certainty.