seeks an explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seeks an explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing someone who is looking for clarification or understanding about a particular topic or situation. Example: "The student seeks an explanation for the complex theory discussed in class."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Micah seeks an explanation, and an apology.

The New York Times

Offensive guard Erik Kaloyanides, a 6-foot-4-inch, 310-pound senior, says everyone he meets seeks an explanation.

The New York Times - Sports

As a nervous Labour party seeks an explanation for its dwindling ratings, it may take some comfort from the fact that the Tories have barely advanced.

The Guardian

Julia's question is very interesting as it seeks an explanation to why most of the world's children still have less legal protection from deliberate assaults than adults.

Harvard University

Finally, al-Kindi seeks an explanation for the association of unity and multiplicity in all these things.

SEP

Royce seeks an explanation of atonement that acknowledges the irrevocable nature of a deed that has been done, and which changes everything for the sinner and the community that has been harmed.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

"We are seeking an explanation.

The Washington Post

Instead they seek an explanation.

The New York Times

They sought an explanation but got none.

The New York Times

In seeking an explanation, a new mystery has emerged.

The New York Times - Science

So Graduate Fog emailed Vice seeking an explanation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seeks an explanation" to convey a formal or neutral tone. For more casual contexts, consider alternatives like "wants to know why" or "is trying to figure out".

Common error

Avoid using "seeks an explanation" when the situation implies a demand or expectation of an immediate answer. Phrases like "demands an explanation" or "insists on knowing why" are more appropriate in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seeks an explanation" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of looking for or requesting a reason or justification for something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound. The examples show its use in various contexts, from academic inquiries to news reports.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seeks an explanation" is a grammatically correct and neutrally-toned way of expressing a desire for understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and showcases various examples across news, scientific, and academic domains. While not exceptionally common, it effectively communicates the active pursuit of reasons or justifications. For more forceful contexts, alternative phrases may be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requests clarification

Focuses on the act of asking for more details to understand something better.

looks for reasons why

A simpler, more direct way of expressing the search for underlying causes.

wants justification

Highlights the desire for a valid reason or excuse for an action or event.

searches for understanding

Highlights the general pursuit of comprehension.

inquires about the reasons

A more formal way of asking for the cause or justification behind something.

asks for the rationale

Emphasizes the search for a logical basis or principle.

demands an accounting

Implies a more forceful request, often in response to something negative or unexpected.

desires elucidation

A more formal and sophisticated way to express the need for clarification.

investigates the cause

Focuses on a systematic examination to determine the origin of something.

probes the circumstances

Suggests a careful and thorough examination of the situation surrounding an event.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "seeks an explanation"?

You can use alternatives like "requests clarification", "looks for reasons why", or "investigates the cause", depending on the context.

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

You can use "seeks an explanation" when someone is trying to understand the reasons or causes behind an event or situation. For example, "The committee seeks an explanation for the budget deficit."

Which is correct, "seeks an explanation" or "is seeking an explanation"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "is seeking an explanation" indicates an ongoing process, while "seeks an explanation" can refer to a general desire or a habitual action.

What's the difference between "seeks an explanation" and "demands an explanation"?

"Seeks an explanation" implies a neutral request for understanding, while "demands an explanation" suggests a more forceful request, often due to dissatisfaction or disagreement.