that can explain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that can explain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that has the ability to provide clarification or understanding about a topic or concept. Example: "I found a book that can explain the complex theories of quantum physics in simple terms."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Huge factors that can explain it receive inadequate treatment.

The New York Times

There is only one bumper-sticker phrase that can explain such behavior: "Death to Israel".

The New York Times

There is not a climate in France that can explain these crimes".

The Guardian

And do it not just in a way that can explain anything.

The New Yorker

"For any datum there are infinitely many theories that can explain it," Chomsky said.

The New Yorker

"You can always find some aspect of natural variability that can explain some things.

The New York Times

-- and consider whether there's a single unifying theory that can explain all the forces of nature.

The New York Times

This suggests that survey more effectively captured variables that can explain utilitarian walking than variables that can explain hedonic walking.

European Transport Research Review

Are there simplifying principles that can explain the structure of such metabolic networks?

Molecular Cell

Here we present a computational model that can explain the results, based on NMDA-dependent LTP.

Neurocomputing

In addition, it classifies dimensions that can explain various and complex aspects of the usability.

International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that can explain", ensure the subject clearly possesses the ability to provide clarification or understanding. Avoid vague or ambiguous subjects.

Common error

Avoid using "that can explain" in overly simplistic sentences where a more direct verb would suffice. For instance, instead of saying "This rule is one that can explain the process", consider "This rule explains the process".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that can explain" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun or pronoun by specifying its ability to provide an explanation. Ludwig AI examples showcase its use in academic and scientific contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

68%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that can explain" functions as a relative clause that highlights the explanatory capacity of a subject. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it is most frequently found in scientific and news media contexts with a neutral to formal register. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness of the phrase. While versatile, it is crucial to avoid overuse in overly simple sentences. Alternatives like "that clarifies" or "that elucidates" can offer nuanced variations in tone and emphasis. Overall, the phrase provides a valuable tool for conveying the ability to provide clarification or understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that clarifies

This option offers a more concise, direct synonym by using a simple verb.

that elucidates

Replaces "explain" with a more formal synonym, resulting in a more sophisticated tone.

which accounts for

This indicates a cause-and-effect relationship, subtly shifting the focus to causation.

that provides insight into

Emphasizes the gaining of understanding or perspective rather than simply clarifying facts.

that offers an explanation for

Adds a noun form of "explain", creating a slightly more formal and explicit tone.

that sheds light on

Uses a metaphorical expression to mean to clarify or reveal something.

that makes clear

Shifts the emphasis from the act of explaining to the resulting clarity.

that gives reason for

Highlights the aspect of providing a logical justification.

that serves to explain

Introduces a sense of purpose or function, making the explanation intentional.

which details

Focuses on providing specific information and particulars about something.

FAQs

How can I use "that can explain" in a sentence?

Use "that can explain" to introduce a clause describing something with the capacity to clarify or provide reasons for a particular phenomenon. For example, "Here's a model "that can explain" all aspects of our data".

What are some alternatives to "that can explain"?

Alternatives include "that clarifies", "that elucidates", or "which accounts for", depending on the desired nuance and formality.

Is "that can explain" formal or informal?

"That can explain" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. The choice depends on the surrounding vocabulary and sentence structure. Consider alternatives like "that elucidates" for more formal writing.

What's the difference between "that can explain" and "that explains"?

"That explains" is more direct and concise, while "that can explain" emphasizes the potential or capability of something to provide an explanation. Use "that explains" for direct statements and "that can explain" when highlighting a capacity or possibility.