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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
please elucidate
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"please elucidate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking someone to explain or clarify something. For example: "I'm not sure I understand what you mean. Could you please elucidate?".
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
She answered with a telegram: "Please elucidate".
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
The undertaker, as if pleased to elucidate a decorative element, explained that the clock had not run in some years but was retained as "a kind of memorial" to a previous incarnation of the firm.
News & Media
Will we see an article from you elucidating that point (please)?
News & Media
The corresponding mathematical equations are supplied in Additional Files 1 and 2. Please note that our model elucidates the cellular circuit connectivity, but does not propose a specific molecular mechanism, e.g., how HSN activity returns to the spiking state after being inhibited, or how VC quickly repolarizes HSN activity.
Science
Thus, please beware of docking!
Please report.
Van, please!
Please describe.
Science
Please see[10].
Please ".
News & Media
Please? .
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "please elucidate" when seeking a formal or precise clarification, particularly in academic or professional contexts.
Common error
Avoid using "please elucidate" in informal settings, as it may sound overly pretentious or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "please explain" or "please clarify" in casual conversations.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "please elucidate" functions as an imperative request. It is used to politely ask someone to provide a detailed explanation or clarification of something. Ludwig's examples show its use in formal communication.
Frequent in
News & Media
50%
Science
50%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Social Media
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "please elucidate" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. However, its use is relatively rare and primarily confined to formal contexts, especially in News & Media and Science. While it effectively conveys a request for detailed clarification, simpler alternatives like "please explain" or "please clarify" are often more appropriate for everyday conversation. Therefore, reserve "please elucidate" for situations where a formal and precise tone is desired.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
please clarify
This alternative is a more direct and common way to ask for clarification.
please explain
This alternative offers a broader request for explanation rather than specific clarification.
could you elaborate please
This alternative provides a slightly more formal and polite way of requesting additional details.
can you explain further
This alternative seeks a more detailed explanation.
please provide more detail
This alternative focuses on requesting additional specific information.
please be more specific
This alternative prompts for a narrower and more precise explanation.
please shed some light on this
This alternative uses a more figurative expression for clarification.
please give us more information
This alternative is a general request for additional information.
please walk me through it
This alternative suggests a step-by-step explanation.
can you break it down for me
This alternative asks for a simplified explanation.
FAQs
How can I use "please elucidate" in a sentence?
You can use "please elucidate" when you want someone to clarify something, especially in formal contexts. For example, "I don't understand this concept; could you "please elucidate"?"
What's a simpler way to say "please elucidate"?
Instead of "please elucidate", you can use phrases like "please explain", or "please clarify". These options are more common and suitable for everyday conversation.
When is it appropriate to use "please elucidate"?
"Please elucidate" is most appropriate in formal settings, such as academic discussions or professional communications. It's a polite way to ask for a detailed explanation or clarification.
Is "please elucidate" considered formal?
Yes, "please elucidate" is considered a formal way to ask for clarification. Simpler alternatives like "please explain" are often preferred in informal contexts.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested