seeking an explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seeking an explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used as part of a larger phrase which expresses the desire to get a clear understanding of something. For example: "I am seeking an explanation for the sudden drop in sales."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We are seeking an explanation.

The Washington Post

So Graduate Fog emailed Vice seeking an explanation.

The Guardian

In seeking an explanation, a new mystery has emerged.

The New York Times - Science

China's main internet providers said they were aware of the problems and were seeking an explanation.

The Guardian

She's seeking an explanation for why faeces is oozing from the pores of her hands.

The Guardian

Prosecutors did not return calls on Thursday seeking an explanation of why the charges were dropped.

The New York Times

Fassel said he was seeking an explanation from the N.F.L. on the call.

The New York Times - Sports

That family came to the office the next day, seeking an explanation.

The New York Times

She did not respond to a request seeking an explanation of the department's reasoning.

The New York Times

The diocese's lawyer, Brian R. Davey, did not return calls seeking an explanation of the claims.

The New York Times

For anyone seeking an explanation for the invention of the modern trumpet, here it was.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and choose synonyms that match the formality of the situation. For instance, "requesting an explanation" might be more appropriate in a formal setting than "looking for a reason".

Common error

Avoid using "seeking an explanation" without specifying what needs to be explained. Instead of saying "The company is seeking an explanation", clarify with "The company is seeking an explanation for the sudden drop in sales".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seeking an explanation" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as the subject or part of the predicate in a sentence. It describes the action of trying to find or obtain a reason or clarification for something, as supported by examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seeking an explanation" is a grammatically correct and frequently used gerund phrase, primarily appearing in news, academic, and formal business contexts. It conveys a need for understanding or clarification. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is suitable for a variety of writing styles, though understanding the intended audience can help you chose the most precise wording. For example, alternatives such as "requesting an explanation" or "pursuing an explanation" may be more fitting depending on the level of formality required. Paying attention to providing context can help to improve the clarity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requesting an explanation

Focuses on the act of formally asking for clarification or a reason.

pursuing an explanation

Implies a more active and persistent effort to obtain an explanation.

trying to understand

Emphasizes the cognitive effort involved in comprehending something.

investigating the reasons

Focuses on a more formal or systematic examination of the causes.

looking for a reason

A more general way of expressing the search for a cause or justification.

demanding an explanation

Indicates a forceful request for clarification, often due to dissatisfaction.

questioning the rationale

Highlights the act of challenging or probing the underlying logic.

inquiring about the cause

A formal way of asking about the reasons behind an event or situation.

probing for answers

Suggests a thorough and persistent search for a comprehensive understanding.

analyzing the situation

Focuses on a detailed examination of the circumstances to gain clarity.

FAQs

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

You can use "seeking an explanation" in sentences like: "The committee is seeking an explanation for the budget deficit", or "Researchers are seeking an explanation for this phenomenon".

What's a formal alternative to "seeking an explanation"?

A formal alternative is "requesting an explanation", which is suitable for professional or official contexts.

Is it correct to say "seeking for an explanation"?

While understandable, "seeking an explanation" is more grammatically correct and commonly used than "seeking for an explanation". The preposition "for" is redundant in this context.

What's the difference between "seeking an explanation" and "demanding an explanation"?

"Seeking an explanation" implies a general inquiry for understanding, whereas "demanding an explanation" suggests a forceful request, often due to dissatisfaction or concern.