require explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "require explanation" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used to indicate that a certain part of a sentence or statement is unclear and needs further clarification or explanation. Example: The ending of the movie was quite ambiguous and may require explanation from the director in a post-screening Q&A session.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

The juxtaposition may require explanation.

The New York Times

Whether you knew jazz or not, it didn't require explanation.

The New York Times - Arts

Others said the genetic differences between the salmon were too minuscule to require explanation yet.

The New York Times - Science

The Tate are probably doing it because it's an exhibition that doesn't require explanation.

Independent

Then each side is to dismiss some of them with peremptory challenges -- ones that do not require explanation for dismissal -- until 16 are chosen.

The New York Times

Apart from when he experiences grief (in by far the best section of the book), the narrator never comes forward, instead explaining things that don't require explanation.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Thus the revealed population characteristics require explanations.

BMC Ecology

Such findings require explanations exceeding the conventional antioxidant concept.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

This also requires explanation from TMG.

The Guardian

This was the century of "liberal theology," a term that requires explanation.

The New York Times - Magazine

That required explanation and, despite the 30-year gap, some kind of public statement of regret.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "require explanation", ensure the subject is clearly defined. For example, specify what requires explanation to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "require explanation" for concepts that are already widely understood by your target audience. Doing so can come across as condescending or unnecessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "require explanation" functions as a verb phrase indicating the necessity for clarification or further detailing of a subject. Ludwig examples show its usage in diverse contexts, reinforcing its role in identifying areas needing additional information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

59%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "require explanation" is a versatile tool in the English language, serving to flag areas where clarity is needed. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically sound and widely used across diverse domains. The analysis reveals its prevalence in scientific and news contexts. Alternatives like "necessitate clarification" or "demand justification" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. Remember to use it judiciously, avoiding over-explanation of obvious points. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate register, you can effectively use "require explanation" to improve communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are in need of clarification

This is a more descriptive and slightly less direct way of saying that something needs to be clarified.

necessitate clarification

This alternative uses a more formal verb, 'necessitate', suggesting a strong need for clarification.

call for elucidation

Uses 'elucidation', a more formal term than 'explanation', implying a need for deeper understanding.

demand justification

This alternative emphasizes the need for a valid reason or support, rather than just clarification.

merit further examination

Similar to 'warrant further inquiry', but focuses on the act of examining something.

warrant further inquiry

Suggests that something deserves further investigation, not just explanation.

raise questions

This alternative emphasizes the act of prompting questions due to a lack of clarity.

beg for an interpretation

This phrase implies a strong need for understanding and meaning to be derived.

invite scrutiny

Suggests that something should be closely examined, often due to potential issues or questions.

must be accounted for

This phrase implies that something unusual has occurred and needs to be explained to resolve the anomaly.

FAQs

How can I use "require explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "require explanation" to indicate that something is unclear and needs further clarification. For example: "The technical terms used in the report "require explanation" for a general audience."

What are some alternatives to "require explanation"?

Alternatives include phrases like "necessitate clarification", "demand justification", or "call for elucidation", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "require explanation"?

It's appropriate to use "require explanation" when something is potentially confusing, ambiguous, or not easily understood by the intended audience. This could be due to technical jargon, complex concepts, or a lack of background knowledge.

What is the difference between "require explanation" and "require discussion"?

"Require explanation" suggests a need for clarification or simplification to aid understanding. "Require discussion", on the other hand, implies a need for debate or exploration of different perspectives on a topic.