Used and loved by millions

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 quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

MitStanfordHarvardAustralian Nationa UniversityNanyangOxford

please elucidate

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE 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

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

She answered with a telegram: "Please elucidate".

News & Media

The New Yorker

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.

Will we see an article from you elucidating that point (please)?

News & Media

The New Yorker

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.

Thus, please beware of docking!

Please report.

Van, please!

Please describe.

Please see[10].

Please ".

News & Media

TechCrunch

Please?  .

News & Media

Vice
Show more...

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.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

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.

Expression frequency: Rare

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.

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.

ChatGPT power + Grammarly precisionChatGPT power + Grammarly precision
ChatGPT + Grammarly

Editing plus AI, all in one place.

Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.

Source & Trust

88%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: