requires some explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "requires some explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that a particular topic or statement needs further clarification or elaboration. Example: "The results of the experiment are surprising and require some explanation to understand their implications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

I suppose Ged requires some explanation.

The New York Times

Such a loaded question requires some explanation.

Cornell University

So this example requires some explanation for the non-Americans.

Yale University

"RICO," however, requires some explanation (Tony Soprano tells his psychiatrist that it means "anti-racketeering decree").

The New York Times

Miró's arrival in Mallorca at the outbreak of the second world war requires some explanation.

The Guardian - Arts

In view of the prominent place now occupied by Ancrene Wisse in English literary history, this requires some explanation.

University of Pennsylvania

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

This required some explanation.

The New Yorker

Such astonishing figures require some explanation.

The Guardian - Opinion

This will, like everything involving PFI, require some explanation.

The Guardian

Bale's casting did, though, require some explanation in China.

The Guardian - Film

But this would seem to require some explanation".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "requires some explanation", ensure that the explanation is provided promptly and clearly to avoid confusion. The phrase serves as a signal to the reader that what follows needs further clarification.

Common error

Avoid using "requires some explanation" as a filler. Always follow up with a clear, concise, and relevant explanation. Failing to do so can frustrate your audience and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "requires some explanation" functions as a transitional phrase, signaling that the subsequent information will elaborate on a potentially unclear or complex subject. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates a need for further clarification.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

28%

Science

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "requires some explanation" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signals the need for further clarification or elaboration. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's most frequently found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, remember to promptly provide a clear and concise explanation to avoid confusing or frustrating your audience. Alternatives such as "needs further clarification" or "calls for more elaboration" can be used to add variety to your writing. Be mindful to avoid overusing the phrase without providing adequate context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

needs further clarification

This alternative focuses on the necessity for additional clarity, emphasizing a lack of understanding without extra details.

calls for more elaboration

This implies that the subject requires a deeper dive and more extensive detailing to be fully understood.

demands additional context

Highlights the need for more background information to provide a comprehensive understanding.

necessitates further explication

Stresses the need for a detailed and systematic explanation.

warrants a more detailed account

Indicates that the topic justifies a more thorough and comprehensive narrative.

is not self-explanatory

This directly states that the subject matter is not easily understood without further information.

begs for a deeper understanding

This suggests a strong need for a more profound and thorough comprehension.

needs to be unpacked further

Implies that the topic is complex and requires careful examination and clarification.

requires greater elucidation

This suggests that the subject matter needs a more enlightening and detailed explanation.

would benefit from further detailing

Suggests that providing additional details would improve understanding and clarity.

FAQs

What does "requires some explanation" mean?

The phrase "requires some explanation" means that a topic, statement, or situation is not immediately clear and needs further clarification or detailing to be fully understood.

How can I use "requires some explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "requires some explanation" to introduce a complex idea or justify providing additional details. For example, "The economic model used in this analysis "requires some explanation" due to its reliance on advanced statistical methods."

What can I say instead of "requires some explanation"?

You can use alternatives like "needs further clarification", "calls for more elaboration", or "demands additional context" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "requires some explanation" or "needs some explanation"?

Both "requires some explanation" and "needs some explanation" are grammatically correct and convey essentially the same meaning. The choice between them often depends on personal preference or the specific tone you want to achieve. "Requires" might sound slightly more formal than "needs".