the underlying explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the underlying explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the fundamental reasons or causes behind a particular phenomenon or situation. Example: "To fully understand the issue, we must first examine the underlying explanation for the observed behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Whatever the underlying explanation, it is difficult to be sure that all previously c-Myc activated cells have undergone irreversible growth arrest and therefore make no contribution to restoration of the tumour phenotype.

BMC Biology

The underlying explanation for this finding likely relates to the frequency of underlying processes occurring within these areas that in turn lead to more opportunities to cause harm.

BMJ Quality and Safety

The underlying explanation of the influence of high optical confinement leading to both high Fp and β is an altered pump-efficiency enhancement mechanism28,29.

Nature

Such faulty wiring connectopathies, in the jargon may be the underlying explanation of such disorders as autism and schizophrenia.Dr Lichtman's work is the most famous example of the emerging science of connectomics.

The Economist

In regions B and D, the optimal governmental strategy is to choose a private duopoly, but the underlying explanation is different.

SERIEs

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

With a confirmed diagnosis in all cases as the cause for hospital admission, the hypothesis that the diagnosis of ACS is more difficult in women can be ruled out as the main underlying explanation for the differences found in the use of these procedures.

BMC Health Services Research

Some of these are philosophical and psychological: including the limits of, and underlying explanation for, the privacy of the mental.

The New York Times

By Shona tradition, when someone dies, whether young or old, the family seeks an underlying explanation for the death — not the medical cause but some person's misconduct that may have prompted the failed health or accident.

The New York Times - Magazine

According to a new report by the non-partisan Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC), America's most populous state is now the third-poorest in the nation, behind Washington, DC, and New York, with almost 6m Californians living below the poverty line.The underlying explanation, says the PPIC, is California's high cost of housing.

The Economist

Two works on American Ballet Theater's program on Wednesday night at the Metropolitan Opera House illustrated the apparent parodox - and underlying explanation -behind these choreographers' general beliefs.

The New York Times - Arts

These results give underlying explanation to the dynamic performance of the graphite-based Al-ion batteries.

Electrochimica Acta

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking to clarify a complex issue, start by articulating "the underlying explanation" to provide a solid foundation for understanding.

Common error

Avoid assuming that correlation implies causation when discussing "the underlying explanation". Ensure a direct causal link exists before presenting it as the explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the underlying explanation" functions as a noun phrase. As Ludwig AI suggests, it serves to identify the fundamental reason or cause behind a phenomenon. Examples show it used to introduce a more in-depth rationale.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

67%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the underlying explanation" is a grammatically sound and relatively infrequent expression used to denote a fundamental reason or cause. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans across scientific and journalistic contexts, aiming to provide clarity and depth to complex issues. While interchangeable with phrases like "the fundamental reason" or "the root cause", it's crucial to avoid confusing correlation with causation when identifying the underlying explanation. Its versatility makes it suitable for formal communication, demanding clarity and precision in its application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the fundamental reason

This alternative emphasizes the basic or essential cause.

the root cause

This focuses on the primary cause from which other issues stem.

the basic rationale

This highlights the logical basis or justification.

the key reason

This emphasizes the most important reason.

the primary driver

This focuses on the main factor that propels a certain outcome.

the real reason

This suggests uncovering the true cause, potentially hidden.

the central premise

This highlights the main assumption or foundation.

the ultimate basis

This highlights the final or most fundamental foundation.

the mainspring

This uses a metaphor to suggest the core mechanism.

the wellspring

This metaphorical term describes the source or origin.

FAQs

What's another way to say "the underlying explanation"?

You can use phrases like "the fundamental reason", "the root cause", or "the basic rationale" depending on the context.

How do I use "the underlying explanation" in a sentence?

When using "the underlying explanation", ensure it clearly identifies the primary reason or cause behind a phenomenon. For instance, "To grasp the problem fully, we must first examine the underlying explanation."

Is it correct to use "the underlying explanation" in formal writing?

Yes, "the underlying explanation" is appropriate for formal writing. It's a clear and professional way to refer to a fundamental cause or reason. Consider alternatives if a more specific term is available.

What makes "the underlying explanation" different from a simple explanation?

"The underlying explanation" suggests a deeper, more fundamental cause than a simple explanation, which might only cover surface-level details.