require an explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "require an explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something needs clarification or further details. Example: "The sudden change in policy requires an explanation from the management team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

This rule doesn't require an explanation.

The New York Times - Arts

Like other rentals, it did not require an explanation.

Princeton University

It's human nature to force explanations on things that sometimes neither have nor require an explanation.

The New York Times

Or sometimes, by necessity, as the calls from detectives and from the church require an explanation.

The Guardian

Such a broad social development seems to require an explanation on the same scale.

The New Yorker

The new rules would also require an explanation of what a particular target date means.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

An open question requires an explanation for an answer rather than just a simple yes or no.

WikiHow

An acceptable overload consists of 17 units and requires an explanation of the reasons for your request.

University of California, Berkeley

The dessert roster required an explanation.

The New York Times

"Having a bimodal distribution requires an explanation and a root-cause analysis, not a cover-up".

The New York Times

In fact, probably the strangest thing about the show is the title, which requires an explanation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "require an explanation", ensure the context clearly indicates what aspect needs clarification or justification. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "require an explanation" in overly simple scenarios where a more straightforward phrase like "needs clarification" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "require an explanation" functions as a verb phrase expressing a need or demand for clarification or justification. As Ludwig AI suggests, it indicates that something is not readily understood and needs further elaboration. This is evident in examples where policy changes or statistical anomalies "require an explanation".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "require an explanation" is a grammatically sound and appropriate way to express a need for clarification or justification. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. While not exceedingly frequent, its presence in news, academic, and scientific contexts indicates its suitability for objective communication. When using the phrase, be specific about what necessitates the explanation to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "demand an explanation" or "necessitate an explanation" can be used depending on the desired tone and emphasis. Overuse in simple situations should be avoided to maintain clarity and conciseness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demand an explanation

This alternative suggests a stronger sense of entitlement or insistence on receiving an explanation.

necessitate an explanation

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the inevitability of needing an explanation.

call for an explanation

This phrase implies that the situation warrants or deserves an explanation.

warrant an explanation

Similar to "call for an explanation", this suggests justification is needed.

need clarification

This alternative focuses on the lack of understanding and the need for clearer information.

demand clarification

More insistent and forceful than "require", focusing on the right to receive clear information.

beg for explanation

This suggests desperation or a strong desire for understanding, often used hyperbolically.

entail an explanation

This alternative is more formal and indicates that the situation inherently involves the need for an explanation.

be in need of explanation

This is a more descriptive alternative, specifying the state of needing an explanation.

explanation is mandatory

This emphasizes that the explanation is not optional but compulsory.

FAQs

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

It is appropriate to use "require an explanation" when something is unclear, ambiguous, or needs justification. For simpler scenarios, consider alternatives like "needs clarification".

What are some alternatives to "require an explanation"?

You can use alternatives such as "demand an explanation", "necessitate an explanation", or "call for an explanation" depending on the context.

Is "require an explanation" formal or informal?

"Require an explanation" leans towards formal usage, but it can be used in neutral contexts as well. Always consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

How can I make my writing clearer when using "require an explanation"?

Ensure that you clearly state what "require an explanation". Providing context and specifics enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity. For example, "The sudden policy change requires an explanation from the management team" is clearer than "This requires an explanation".