the only explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the only explanation" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that serves as the only reasonable explanation for an event or situation. For example: "The only explanation for the sudden disappearance of Bob's wallet is that it was stolen."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's the only explanation.

Independent

That's the only explanation I can see".

The Guardian - Tech

I think that is the only explanation.

The New York Times

The donor was the only explanation.

The New York Times - Health

But ratings are not the only explanation.

The New York Times

But that is not the only explanation.

The New York Times - Travel

Corruption is not the only explanation.

The Guardian

"The only explanation for that is greed".

The New York Times

JOE TORRE offered the only explanation he could.

The New York Times

The only explanation possible is that it's art.

The Guardian - Books

I mean that is the only explanation right?

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the only explanation", ensure that you have thoroughly considered other possibilities to avoid making unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

Avoid presenting "the only explanation" as an absolute truth without sufficient evidence. Qualify your statement if there are potential, albeit less likely, alternative explanations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the only explanation" functions as a noun phrase that typically introduces or identifies a reason or cause that is presented as the single, definitive explanation for a situation or event. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a valid way to present reasoning.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the only explanation" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase used to introduce what is presented as the sole reason for a particular situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is considered correct English. Predominantly found in news and media, and science contexts, it serves to provide clarity and assertiveness in reasoning. While it is versatile, it's important to ensure claims are substantiated to avoid overstatement. Alternative phrases, such as "the sole reason" or "the definitive answer", can be used to subtly alter the emphasis. Ultimately, understanding the phrase's function, purpose, and potential pitfalls allows for more effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the sole reason

Replaces "explanation" with "reason", emphasizing the singular cause.

the only plausible cause

Highlights the believability and reasonableness of the cause.

the single cause

Highlights that there is just one cause behind something.

the only logical conclusion

Emphasizes the logical aspect of the explanation.

the only possible interpretation

Indicates that there's no other way to understand something.

the one and only reason

Adds emphasis to the uniqueness of the reason.

the only valid rationale

Focuses on the reasoning behind something, asserting its validity.

the exclusive justification

Uses more formal language, stressing that no other justification exists.

the definitive answer

Shifts focus from explanation to a conclusive answer.

that's the long and short of it

Expresses the explanation in a more colloquial, summarizing manner.

FAQs

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

You can use "the only explanation" to introduce a reason or cause that you believe is the sole explanation for a particular situation. For example, "The only explanation is that the store was closed for renovations".

What are some alternatives to saying "the only explanation"?

Alternatives include phrases like "the sole reason", "the single cause", or "the definitive answer", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it acceptable to use "the only explanation" in formal writing?

Yes, "the only explanation" is acceptable in formal writing. However, ensure your claim is well-supported by evidence to avoid appearing overly assertive or dismissive of other possibilities.

What's the difference between "the only explanation" and "a possible explanation"?

"The only explanation" suggests that there is just one valid reason, whereas "a possible explanation" indicates that there are multiple potential reasons, and you're presenting one of them.