the explanation behind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the explanation behind" is correct and can be used in written English.
You could use it when you are introducing the cause or reason for something, or introducing the background information that will help explain something. For example, "The explanation behind why these changes were made will be discussed in the following section."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Then in 2011, a curious piece of research revealed that food pairing was only part of the explanation behind successful recipes.

MIT Technology Review

The resulting clothes, and the explanation behind them, show that a growing number of men want to spend money on tailoring that is entirely unsuitable for the boardroom.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The explanation behind the accident was the first by an official from one of three agencies that have been looking into why the scaffold gave way.

The New York Times

It argues that part of the explanation behind scandals at Uber and other unicorns lies in changes to the traditional venture capital ("VC") structure for financing start-up companies and expanded opportunities for liquidity for their investors.

Harvard University

It's the best-looking and most convincing of the three, and the explanation behind it is the hardest to piece together, not that any of the three mysteries is terribly difficult to solve.

The New York Times - Arts

The explanation behind these findings requires further research.

Duke University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Finding out the explanations behind the phenomena that networked systems can still function efficiently after some structural damages or the malfunction of certain nodes is meaningful to both the design of solid systems and the defend against failures.

Chaos, Solitons & Fractals

The editors of the Orange County Register take issue with the explanations behind the future transfer.

BBC

One of the explanations behind Second Life's ability to attract extra attention is the fact that it is one of the few virtual worlds that isn't a game, nor is it aimed primarily at young people.

Forbes

Practitioners working outside the limits can be sampled for the explanations behind variance.

European Journal of Preventive Cardiology

One of the explanations behind the high mortality in developing countries is the lack of effective screening programs for cervical cancer.

BMC Public Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the explanation behind", ensure that you clearly articulate the subject or event that needs explaining to provide context for the explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "the explanation behind" without a clear subject; always specify what you are providing an explanation for to avoid ambiguity and maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the explanation behind" functions as a noun phrase introducing a reason or cause. It often precedes a clause that provides further details or clarification. As seen in the examples from Ludwig, it serves to set up an explanation for a particular phenomenon or event.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the explanation behind" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to introduce the underlying reasons or causes for a particular phenomenon. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is appropriate across various contexts, with a strong presence in News & Media, Science, and Academic writing. When using this phrase, clarity and context are essential to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases such as "the reason for" or "the cause of" can be used as alternatives depending on the desired nuance. While generally neutral in register, ensure the surrounding language aligns with the intended level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the reason for

Focuses on the cause or justification for something, differing slightly in formality.

the cause of

Highlights the direct instigator or origin of an event or situation.

the basis for

Emphasizes the foundational element or rationale.

the rationale for

Stresses the logical or reasoned justification.

the origins of

Directs attention to the beginning or source.

the grounds for

Indicates the justification or basis for an action or belief.

the motivation for

Highlights the driving force or incentive.

the thinking behind

Focuses on the thought process or reasoning.

the secret of

Implies a hidden or not readily apparent reason.

the story of

Refers to the narrative or sequence of events that clarifies something.

FAQs

How can I use "the explanation behind" in a sentence?

You can use "the explanation behind" to introduce the reason or cause for something. For example, "The explanation behind the company's success is its innovative marketing strategy."

What is a good alternative to "the explanation behind"?

Alternatives include "the reason for", "the cause of", or "the basis for" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "the explanation behind"?

Yes, "the explanation behind" is grammatically correct and commonly used to introduce the underlying reason or cause for something.

What's the difference between "the explanation behind" and "the reason behind"?

While both phrases are similar, "the explanation behind" often implies a more detailed or elaborate account, whereas "the reason behind" can be more straightforward. They are often interchangeable, but context matters.