serious explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serious explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an explanation that is earnest, thoughtful, or significant in nature. Example: "The professor provided a serious explanation of the complex theories that underpin the subject matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

His deadly serious explanation of the coal oven makes a dandy aria.

The New York Times - Arts

A month later officials insisted they did not "know of any serious explanation for the phenomena".

The New York Times

No serious explanation for those acts has been offered beyond trying to muck up the 2016 presidential election.

The Washington Post

Yet it is hard to think of any event in modern times that requires a more serious explanation from the forces of religion than this week's earthquake.

The Guardian

A pretty little thing was heard finishing a long and serious explanation, "And that's why I think Papa is going to shoot him".

The New Yorker

A pretty little thing was heard finishing a long and serious explanation, "And that's why I think Papa is going to….

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Puzzlement turned to anger as some companies failed to communicate serious explanations.

The Guardian

His academic approach provides endless fun; see the three deadly serious explanations of "titwank".

The Guardian

Since the exhibition is entertaining (at least on its upper floor) and more serious explanations are given in the accompanying catalog, does it matter that this seems more like a brand promotion than a curatorial endeavor?

The New York Times - Arts

GPs mentioned undertaking several actions to stimulate patients to consider less serious explanations.

BMC Family Practice

(Though the system as Leibniz envisions it — comprised of a plenum of elastic particles of matter — is far too complex for him to offer any quantitative model based on this qualitative picture. So he had no serious alternative explanation of inertial effects).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "serious explanation", ensure that the context reflects a situation where a thoughtful, well-considered, and potentially complex justification is required. Avoid using it in trivial or lighthearted situations.

Common error

Avoid using "serious explanation" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pretentious if the situation doesn't warrant it. Choose simpler alternatives like "good reason" or "valid point" for everyday scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serious explanation" functions as a noun phrase, where 'serious' modifies the noun 'explanation'. It describes the type or quality of the explanation being given. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serious explanation" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that emphasizes the significance and depth of a provided justification. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most frequently found in news and media, scientific publications, and encyclopedias, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure the context warrants a thoughtful and well-considered response, and avoid overusing it in informal settings where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. Related phrases include "thorough justification" and "compelling rationale".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thorough justification

Emphasizes the completeness and depth of the reasoning provided.

compelling rationale

Highlights the convincing and persuasive nature of the reason.

credible account

Focuses on the believability and trustworthiness of the explanation.

valid interpretation

Stresses the legitimacy and correctness of the understanding offered.

substantive clarification

Highlights the significant and meaningful details provided.

in-depth exposition

Emphasizes the detailed and comprehensive nature of the explanation.

profound analysis

Stresses the depth and insightfulness of the examination provided.

rigorous justification

Emphasizes the strictness and thoroughness of the support provided.

detailed rationale

Focuses on the comprehensive and elaborate reasons given.

cogent explanation

Highlights the clarity and logical coherence of the reasoning.

FAQs

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

You can use "serious explanation" when a situation requires an in-depth and thoughtful justification. For example, "The board demanded a "serious explanation" for the company's financial losses".

What are some alternatives to "serious explanation"?

Alternatives include "thorough justification", "compelling rationale", or "credible account", depending on the context.

Is "serious explanation" appropriate for informal conversations?

While grammatically correct, "serious explanation" may sound overly formal in casual contexts. Consider using simpler phrases like "good reason" or "valid point".

What makes an explanation "serious"?

A "serious" explanation typically involves detailed reasoning, careful consideration of facts, and a level of importance or consequence attached to the situation being explained. It goes beyond a simple or casual answer.