provide an explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

"provide an explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to explain or clarify something. For example, "Can you provide an explanation for why you were late?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I mean provide an explanation.

The New Yorker

It won't provide an explanation.

The Guardian - Money

The censors would not provide an explanation.

The New York Times

Don't expect Barry Bonds to provide an explanation.

The New York Times - Sports

Our studies provide an explanation for this observation.

Nature

Furthermore, we provide an explanation of Timoshenko doublets.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

The court did not provide an explanation of its decision.

The New York Times

The military declined to provide an explanation for the charges.

The New York Times

Our analyses provide an explanation for this pattern.

Biological Conservation

If so, the seller must provide an explanation of such problems.

The New York Times

Neither agency could provide an explanation for why their statistics differed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provide an explanation", ensure that the explanation is clear, concise, and relevant to the context. Avoid ambiguity and use precise language to convey the intended meaning effectively.

Common error

Avoid using jargon or overly technical terms when you "provide an explanation", especially when addressing a general audience. Tailor your language to suit the knowledge level of your intended readers or listeners.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provide an explanation" functions as a verbal phrase, typically used as part of a request or statement. It calls for or indicates the giving of reasons, details, or justifications for something. As noted by Ludwig, it is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

35%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "provide an explanation" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to request or offer clarification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. When using this phrase, clarity and conciseness are key. Related phrases such as "offer a clarification" or "give a rationale" can be used as alternatives to add variety to your writing. Remembering to tailor the explanation to your audience's understanding will enhance communication effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offer a clarification

Focuses on making something clearer, highlighting the act of removing ambiguity.

give a rationale

Emphasizes the reasoning behind a decision or action.

offer a justification

Highlights defending or showing something to be right or reasonable.

present an account

Suggests a structured and detailed explanation of events or facts.

furnish a reason

Implies supplying a cause or motive for something.

submit an interpretation

Focuses on offering a particular understanding or perspective.

advance an argument

Highlights the presentation of reasons to support a claim or position.

proffer an understanding

Suggests offering a specific insight or knowledge about a subject.

bring forth a defense

Emphasizes presenting reasons to protect or vindicate.

develop a commentary

Suggests creating a detailed analysis or interpretation.

FAQs

How can I use "provide an explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "provide an explanation" to request someone to clarify something, such as "Can you "provide an explanation" for the sudden change in policy?" or to state that something offers a clarification, for example, "This study may "provide an explanation" for the observed phenomenon."

What can I say instead of "provide an explanation"?

You can use alternatives like "offer a clarification", "give a rationale", or "offer a justification" depending on the context.

Is it better to "provide an explanation" or "give an explanation"?

Both "provide an explanation" and "give an explanation" are correct and commonly used. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific tone you want to convey. "Provide" might sound slightly more formal in some contexts.

When is it appropriate to ask someone to "provide an explanation"?

It's appropriate to ask someone to "provide an explanation" when you need clarification on a topic, want to understand the reasons behind a decision, or require more details about an event. For example, you might ask a company to "provide an explanation" for a billing error.