this explains

USAGE SUMMARY

"this explains" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are providing an explanation for something. For example, "This explains why I haven't been able to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This explains Saleh's character.

The New Yorker

This explains Azerbaijan's frustration.

The Economist

This explains a lot.

Independent

This explains the brand names.

The New Yorker

Perhaps this explains the jokes.

Independent

"This explains that poem".

The Guardian - Books

This explains Lively's title.

The Guardian - Books

This explains its success.

The New York Times - Books

This explains its importance.

The Washington Post

This explains how.

The Washington Post

This explains why.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this explains" to directly introduce an explanation or reason for a previously mentioned fact or situation. It works best when the connection is relatively clear and direct.

Common error

Avoid using "this explains" to oversimplify complex arguments or when the connection between the statement and the explanation is not immediately apparent. In such cases, a more detailed explanation with transitional phrases might be necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this explains" functions as a demonstrative determiner ("this") followed by a transitive verb ("explains"). Grammatically, it introduces an explanation or reason for a preceding statement or situation, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

42%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this explains" is a versatile phrase used to introduce explanations or reasons. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While suitable for both formal and informal writing, it's crucial to avoid oversimplification in complex arguments. Alternatives like "this clarifies" or "this accounts for" can be used for nuanced expression. It is a very common phrase based on the number of examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this clarifies

Emphasizes making something clearer or easier to understand.

this elucidates

Highlights the act of shedding light on a complex topic.

this illuminates

Suggests a more profound understanding or insight is being provided.

this justifies

Focuses on providing reasons or evidence to support a claim or action.

this accounts for

Indicates that something provides a reason or explanation for a particular phenomenon.

this demonstrates

Implies that the explanation is being shown or proven.

this reveals

Focuses on uncovering something previously hidden or unknown.

this indicates

Suggests an indirect explanation or implication.

this highlights

Emphasizes a specific aspect of the explanation.

this suggests

Offers a tentative explanation or possibility.

FAQs

How can I use "this explains" in a sentence?

Use "this explains" to introduce the reason or cause behind a particular situation or fact. For example, "The company's profits decreased significantly last quarter. This explains the recent layoffs".

What are some alternatives to "this explains"?

You can use alternatives like "this clarifies", "this elucidates", or "this accounts for" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "this explains" in formal writing?

Yes, "this explains" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, in highly formal contexts, you might consider using more sophisticated alternatives such as "this elucidates" or "this accounts for".

What's the difference between "this explains" and "this indicates"?

"This explains" directly introduces a cause or reason. "This indicates", on the other hand, suggests an indirect relationship or implication. For example, "Low voter turnout this year. This explains the election results", versus, "Increased crime rates in the area. This indicates a need for more community policing".