that explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific explanation that has been previously mentioned or provided in the conversation or text. Example: "I appreciate that explanation; it really clarified my doubts about the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some labor advocates found that explanation unconvincing.

The New York Times

In the interview, Offredo confirmed that explanation.

The New York Times - Sports

The study discounts that explanation, too.

The New York Times

Eventually, however, that explanation failed her.

The New Yorker

Mr. Lonegan said that explanation amazed him.

The New York Times

Last week Wilpon and Phillips denied that explanation.

The New York Times - Sports

The medical examiner disputed that explanation.

The New York Times

Several scholars have doubted that explanation.

Wikipedia

Let's for a second believe that explanation.

Vice

Though Apatow also doubts that explanation, too.

Huffington Post

Judge Gertner told HuffPost that explanation sounds accurate.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that explanation" when you want to refer back to a specific explanation that has already been clearly stated or implied in the context. This helps to avoid ambiguity and keeps the focus on the previously mentioned information.

Common error

Avoid using "that explanation" if no explanation has been previously offered or is readily understood. This can confuse readers and make your writing unclear. Ensure there's a clear reference point before using the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that explanation" functions as a determiner + noun phrase. It serves to specify a particular explanation that has been previously mentioned or is otherwise understood within the context of the conversation or text. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in referring to previously stated points.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that explanation" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to refer back to a previously mentioned explanation. Ludwig AI validates its usage in diverse contexts, primarily within news and media. It's important to ensure the explanation is already clear to the audience before using this phrase to maintain clarity. Alternatives like "that rationale" or "that justification" can be used for nuanced meaning. While versatile, avoiding its use without prior context is crucial to prevent confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that rationale

Substitutes "explanation" with "rationale", emphasizing the reasoning or logic behind something.

that justification

Replaces "explanation" with "justification", highlighting the act of showing something to be right or reasonable.

the aforementioned explanation

Adds formality and specificity by using "aforementioned" to refer back to the explanation.

the given explanation

Uses "given" to emphasize that the explanation has already been presented.

that account

Uses "account" instead of "explanation", referring to a description of an event or situation.

that interpretation

Replaces "explanation" with "interpretation", emphasizing the way something is understood or explained.

that reasoning

Uses "reasoning" to focus on the logical thought process behind the explanation.

that version

Employs "version" to imply a particular telling or interpretation of events.

that argument

Substitutes "explanation" with "argument", highlighting a set of reasons given to persuade others.

that story

Replaces "explanation" with "story", implying a narrative or account of events.

FAQs

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

You can use "that explanation" to refer back to a previously stated reason or justification. For example, "The company's spokesperson provided a statement, but many found "that explanation" unconvincing".

What's a good alternative to "that explanation"?

Alternatives include "that rationale", "that justification", or "the aforementioned explanation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it okay to start a sentence with "that explanation"?

While grammatically correct, starting a sentence with "that explanation" might sound slightly awkward. It's often better to incorporate it into the sentence or rephrase for better flow. For instance, instead of "That explanation was not sufficient," try "The offered explanation was not sufficient".

What's the difference between "that explanation" and "this explanation"?

"That explanation" typically refers to an explanation that has already been provided or is at a distance, while "this explanation" refers to an explanation that is currently being given or is closer in context. For example, "I didn't believe that explanation earlier, but "this explanation" makes more sense".