this may explain

USAGE SUMMARY

"this may explain" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is a conclusion that could be used following an explanation or discussion. For example: The high rate of absenteeism among teachers at this school is likely due to the lack of benefits. This may explain why so many teachers quickly move on to positions at other schools.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This may explain John Lewis's sole complaint.

The Guardian

This may explain Mr Arinc's bravado.

The Economist

And this may explain one final correlation.

The Economist

This may explain a great deal.

Independent

This may explain the French team's psychology.

The Guardian - Opinion

This may explain the onset of pain.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This may explain the directorial decisions.

The New York Times

This may explain the sauvignon blanc's brioche-like flavor.

The New York Times

This may explain why I'm e-mailing on Thanksgiving Day.

The New York Times

(This may explain their critical and commercial failure).

The New Yorker

This may explain Daunt's seeming acquiescence to Amazon.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this may explain", ensure that the connection between the preceding information and the explanation is clear and logical.

Common error

Avoid using "this may explain" when a more conclusive explanation is available. Instead, consider using phrases like "this clearly demonstrates" or "this confirms".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this may explain" functions as a causal connector, introducing a possible explanation for a preceding statement or observation. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and usability, commonly linking a situation with its potential cause.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

37%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this may explain" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that functions as a causal connector, introducing a plausible explanation. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, typically used to follow an explanation or discussion. It appears across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general discourse, rendering it generally neutral in formality. As Ludwig examples show, alternatives include phrases such as "this could clarify" or "this might illuminate", each with slightly different nuances. A key best practice is to ensure a clear and logical connection between the preceding information and the explanation being offered, while avoiding overstating the certainty of the explanation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this could clarify

Emphasizes the act of making something clearer or easier to understand.

this might illuminate

Suggests shedding light on a topic, making it more visible or comprehensible.

this can account for

Highlights that something serves as a reason or explanation for something else.

this helps to understand

Focuses on aiding comprehension of a particular issue or situation.

this offers a rationale for

Provides a logical basis or justification for an event or decision.

this provides insight into

Emphasizes gaining a deeper understanding or perspective.

this suggests a reason for

Implies a possible motive or cause, often requiring further investigation.

this implies that

Indicates that something is likely the case, though not explicitly stated.

this elucidates

Similar to clarify, but often suggests a more thorough and detailed explanation.

this gives a clue about

Highlights the provision of a hint or indicator toward understanding something.

FAQs

How can I use "this may explain" in a sentence?

The phrase "this may explain" is used to introduce a potential reason or cause for something. For instance, "The company's profits have decreased significantly; this may explain the recent layoffs."

What are some alternatives to "this may explain"?

Alternatives include phrases like "this could clarify", "this might illuminate", or "this can account for" depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to use "this might explain" instead of "this may explain"?

Yes, "this might explain" is grammatically correct and serves a similar function to "this may explain". Both suggest a possible explanation, with "might" sometimes implying a slightly lower probability than "may".

What's the difference between "this may explain" and "this explains"?

"This may explain" suggests a potential or possible explanation, while "this explains" presents the explanation as a definite and confirmed reason. The choice depends on the certainty and evidence supporting the explanation.