self-explanatory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "self-explanatory" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is clear and understandable without needing further explanation. Example: "The instructions for assembling the furniture are self-explanatory, so you shouldn't have any trouble putting it together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

("Self-explanatory," Scott said).

The New York Times - Sports

And it's self-explanatory.

The New York Times - Tech

That seemed self-explanatory.

The Guardian - Opinion

Water Polio (Self-explanatory).

The New Yorker

It's pretty self-explanatory.

The Guardian

This one is self-explanatory.

The New Yorker

The title's rather self-explanatory.

The Guardian - Sport

AdAm This one's self-explanatory.

The New Yorker

The app isn't self-explanatory.

The Guardian - Tech

The script was self-explanatory".

The Guardian - Film

Most Tony Awards are self-explanatory.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "self-explanatory", ensure that the context truly supports the claim. Overusing it can make your writing sound condescending if the subject matter is not as straightforward as you assume.

Common error

Avoid using "self-explanatory" when addressing a diverse audience with varying levels of expertise. What might be obvious to one person could be confusing to another. Instead, provide brief explanations to ensure clarity for everyone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "self-explanatory" functions as an adjective, modifying nouns or noun phrases to indicate that they are easily understood without additional explanation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Academia

14%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adjective phrase "self-explanatory" is a common and accepted way to describe something easily understood without needing extra explanation. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is both correct and widely used. While it appears most frequently in news and media, it's important to use it judiciously, especially when catering to diverse audiences. Remember, clarity is key: what seems "self-explanatory" to one person might not be to another. Alternatives like "easily understood" or "obvious" offer similar meanings, but choosing the right word depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. Avoid overuse to prevent sounding condescending and ensure your message resonates clearly with your intended audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

easily understood

Focuses on the ease of comprehension.

obvious

Highlights the clear and apparent nature.

evident

Stresses the easily observable nature.

unambiguous

Emphasizes the lack of potential for misinterpretation.

clear

A simple and direct alternative emphasizing clarity.

patent

Indicates something that is openly and obviously apparent.

plain

Suggests simplicity and lack of complexity in understanding.

manifest

Implies that something is clearly revealed or displayed.

readily apparent

Emphasizes the quick and easy understanding of something.

crystal clear

Highlights exceptional clarity and ease of understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "self-explanatory" in a sentence?

You can use "self-explanatory" to describe something that is easily understood without needing further explanation. For example, "The instructions were "self-explanatory", so I had no trouble assembling the furniture."

What are some alternatives to saying "self-explanatory"?

You can use alternatives like "easily understood", "obvious", or "evident" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "self-explanatory" in formal writing?

Yes, "self-explanatory" is appropriate in formal writing, but ensure that the context genuinely warrants its use. Overuse can make your writing sound dismissive. Use it sparingly and only when the information truly requires no further elaboration.

When should I avoid using "self-explanatory"?

Avoid using "self-explanatory" when writing for a broad audience with diverse backgrounds or when introducing complex concepts. What might be obvious to you may not be so for everyone else. In such cases, providing a brief explanation is always better.