requests an explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "requests an explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when someone is asking for clarification or more information about a particular topic or situation. Example: "The committee requests an explanation for the unexpected budget increase."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Upset and hurt, she requests an explanation.

The New York Times - Books

Hempel responded to this criticism by distinguishing between what is actually presented to someone who requests an explanation (the "explanation sketch") and the full objective explanation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Firstly, it must be noted that not every how-question requests an explanation.

SEP

In the letter, she requests an explanation as to why "the most advanced security features" haven't been provided to consumers.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"Those are fees incurred for requesting an explanation of your fees".

The New Yorker

If García's management aren't already requesting an explanation from the PGA Tour, they should be.

The Guardian - Sport

The Czech foreign ministry requested an explanation and said that the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations might have been violated.

The Economist

Consequently, we are dunned a flat fee by Thames Water, one so mind-bogglingly large that I requested an explanation for how the company estimates our usage.

The Guardian - Opinion

She said that neither the agency nor Chrysler, the Fiat Group subsidiary, have responded to a letter she sent requesting an explanation as well as payment.

The New York Times

It adds: "The head of the police department requested an explanation.... British forces admitted they mistakenly killed the deceased," the statement says.

Independent

There you have it: Porter's response to the threat to higher education is to politely request an explanation of how tuition fees will only be doubled rather than tripled in most cases.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "requests an explanation", ensure the context clearly indicates who is making the request and from whom the explanation is sought. For example: "The customer requests an explanation from the company regarding the billing error."

Common error

Avoid using "requests an explanation" when the situation calls for a stronger term like "demands" or "insists on". "Requests" implies a polite inquiry, while "demands" suggests a firmer expectation or right to an explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "requests an explanation" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a formal or polite inquiry. It signifies that someone is asking for a reason, justification, or clarification for something. As Ludwig AI points out, it is a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "requests an explanation" is a grammatically correct and usable expression for formally seeking clarification or reasons for something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and examples from news, encyclopedias, and scientific sources highlight its usage in neutral to professional contexts. While relatively uncommon, this phrase is best used when a polite yet firm inquiry is appropriate, distinguishing itself from stronger terms like "demands". Common alternatives include "asks for clarification" or "seeks elucidation". Using this phrase appropriately ensures clarity and professionalism in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

asks for clarification

Focuses on seeking a clearer understanding rather than a full explanation.

seeks elucidation

A more formal and emphatic way of requesting a detailed explanation.

requires a rationale

Emphasizes the need for a logical basis or justification.

demands justification

Implies a stronger need for the explanation, often in response to something questionable.

calls for an account

Suggests a formal request for a detailed report or explanation.

inquires about the reasons

More directly asks for the reasons behind something.

wants to know why

A simpler, more direct way of asking for the reasons.

probes for understanding

Suggests a deeper, more thorough inquiry to gain comprehension.

is curious about the details

Indicates an interest in learning more about specific aspects.

investigates the cause

Focuses on uncovering the underlying reasons or origins.

FAQs

What is a good substitute for "requests an explanation"?

You can use alternatives like "asks for clarification", "seeks elucidation", or "demands justification" depending on the context and the level of formality.

How to use "requests an explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "requests an explanation" when someone is formally asking for a reason or clarification for something. For example: "The senator requests an explanation from the CEO regarding the company's financial practices."

What's the difference between "requests an explanation" and "needs an explanation"?

"Requests an explanation" implies a formal or polite inquiry, while "needs an explanation" suggests a requirement or necessity for understanding something, which could be less formal.

When is it appropriate to use "requests an explanation"?

It is appropriate in formal settings such as business, legal, or academic contexts where a clear and reasoned justification is required. It implies a polite but firm expectation of a response.