please explain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "please explain" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used when you want someone to clarify or provide more information about something they have said or written. Example: "I don't quite understand what you mean by 'sustainable development.' Can you please explain it further?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Please explain it.

The New York Times

"Please explain to me".

The New York Times - Sports

Please explain to him.

The New Yorker

"Will you please explain?" "No".

The New Yorker

Please explain I'm so confused!

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Can someone please explain why?

The Guardian - Tech

"Please explain?" They're both boring.

The Guardian - Sport

Please explain: They're handling it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Can someone smarter than me please explain?

The New York Times

If yes, please explain what happened".

The New Yorker

Please explain what Larsson does well.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "please explain" when you need clarification on a specific point or concept. Ensure the context is clear so the person knows exactly what you're asking them to elaborate on.

Common error

Avoid using "please explain" as a standalone request without specifying what you need clarified. Instead, frame your request with context, such as "I don't understand X, can you please explain?"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "please explain" functions as a polite imperative, used to directly request clarification or a more detailed account of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a standard request for more information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "please explain" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to politely request clarification or further details. Ludwig AI affirms its validity and widespread use. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science, the phrase maintains a neutral register, suitable for various contexts. To enhance clarity in writing, provide specific context when using "please explain". For similar expressions, consider alternatives such as "could you elaborate" or "can you clarify" depending on the nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I don't understand, can you explain

This alternative explicitly states a lack of understanding before requesting explanation.

explain further

This alternative is a concise request for additional explanation.

can you clarify

This alternative focuses on removing ambiguity or confusion.

could you clarify that

This alternative is a more direct way to seek clarification on a specific point.

could you elaborate

This alternative is more formal and asks for a more detailed explanation.

can you give more detail

This option requests a more detailed account or description.

what does that mean

This alternative is a straightforward request for the definition or significance of something.

what do you mean by that

This alternative is more direct and informal, seeking immediate clarification.

walk me through it

This alternative implies a step-by-step explanation is desired.

say more about that

This alternative is less direct, prompting the speaker to expand on their previous statement.

FAQs

How to use "please explain" in a sentence?

You can use "please explain" to politely request someone to clarify something. For example, "I'm not sure I understand the process; could you "please explain" it again?"

What can I say instead of "please explain"?

You can use alternatives like "could you elaborate", "can you clarify", or "what do you mean by that" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "please explain" or "can you explain"?

Both "please explain" and "can you explain" are correct. "Please explain" is a more direct and polite request, while "can you explain" is a question that asks if the person is able to provide an explanation.

What's the difference between "please explain" and "explain further"?

"Please explain" is a complete polite request. "Explain further" is a more concise imperative, suitable when politeness is less of a concern.