the explanation for

USAGE SUMMARY

'the explanation for' is a perfectly valid, correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It can be used when something needs to be better understood and provides an explanation for why something is the way it is. For example, "The explanation for the high cost of this product is its high quality materials."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The explanation for this sudden change?

The Economist

The explanation for this bonanza is simple.

The New York Times

The explanation for this is straightforward.

The New York Times

The explanation for his unpredictable actions?

The New York Times - Tech

The explanation for this is clear.

The Guardian - Opinion

So what's the explanation for the drop?

The New York Times

The explanation for that from the man himself was familiar.

The Guardian - Sport

So, what is the explanation for such huge investments?

The Guardian - Opinion

The explanation for the difference is largely technical.

The New York Times

The explanation for this is both simple and profoundly strange.

The New Yorker

The explanation for this fiscal sleight of hand is simple.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the explanation for", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being explained. A well-defined subject enhances clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "the explanation for" in overly simple sentences where a more direct word like "because" or "why" would suffice. This keeps the writing concise and prevents unnecessary formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the explanation for" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a reason or cause. Ludwig AI examples show it is often used to clarify or provide insight into a situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the explanation for" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce reasons or causes. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in written English. Its usage is particularly common in news and scientific contexts, as well as more formal settings. While highly useful, it’s best to avoid overusing it in simple sentences where more direct phrasing would suffice. Alternatives like "the reason for" or "the cause of" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to always ensure the context is clear and the subject of explanation is well-defined.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the reason for

Replaces "explanation" with "reason", emphasizing the cause or motive.

the cause of

Focuses specifically on identifying the origin or source of an event or situation.

the rationale behind

Highlights the logical basis or justification for something.

the grounds for

Emphasizes the basis or justification on which a decision or action is based.

the motivation for

Focuses on the driving force or incentive behind an action or decision.

the justification for

Highlights the reasons or evidence used to support an action or belief.

the purpose of

Emphasizes the intended goal or objective of something.

the basis for

Indicates the underlying foundation or support for an idea or argument.

the source of

Identifies the origin or starting point of something.

the account of

Offers a description or narrative of why something occurred.

FAQs

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

Use "the explanation for" to introduce the reason or cause behind a particular event, fact, or situation. For example, "The explanation for the sudden increase in sales is the successful marketing campaign."

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

While similar, "the reason for" generally implies a motive or cause, whereas "the explanation for" often refers to a clarification or understanding of something. You can use alternatives like "the reason for" depending on the context.

What can I say instead of "the explanation for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "the cause of", "the rationale behind", or "the motivation for".

Is "the explanation for" formal or informal?

"The explanation for" is generally considered neutral to formal. In very informal contexts, you might opt for a simpler phrasing like "the reason is" or "that's why".