to explain how

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to explain how" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify the method or process of something in a detailed manner. Example: "In this report, I will aim to explain how the new software improves efficiency in our workflow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"We want to explain how things work".

Independent

Somebody needs to explain how this happened.

The Guardian

It's hard to explain how I felt.

The Guardian

Not to explain how you feel.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's hard to explain how you feel.

The New York Times

We need to explain how charities work.

The Guardian

Impossible to explain how big it was".

The New York Times

Hall goes on to explain how he's managed….

The New Yorker

O.K., and now to explain how it's done.

The New York Times

Just don't ask them to explain how goal difference works.

The New Yorker

But no details are given to explain how or why.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to explain how", ensure that the explanation is clear, concise, and tailored to your audience's level of understanding. Providing concrete examples can greatly enhance comprehension.

Common error

Avoid using overly technical jargon or complex sentence structures when you aim "to explain how" something works. Simplicity and clarity are key to effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to explain how" functions as an infinitive phrase that introduces a clause of purpose or explanation. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It serves to indicate the intention of clarifying a process, method, or reason.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to explain how" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to introduce clarifications or detailed processes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and formal communications. The phrase aims to provide clarity and understanding, making it an essential tool for effective communication. When using "to explain how", focus on being clear and concise, and avoid overly complex language to ensure your audience understands the explanation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to clarify how

Focuses more on making something easier to understand, highlighting clarity.

to describe how

Emphasizes detailing the steps or components of a process or situation.

to illustrate how

Uses examples or visuals to make the explanation more vivid and understandable.

to demonstrate how

Focuses on showing the process or mechanism through practical examples.

to detail how

Stresses a comprehensive and thorough account of the process.

to elucidate how

Indicates a more formal and thorough explanation, aiming to remove confusion.

to outline how

Provides a structured overview of the process or method.

to show how

Offers a direct presentation of the method or process, often emphasizing simplicity.

to specify how

Emphasizes precision and exactness in describing the method or steps.

to define how

Concentrates on establishing the essential nature or qualities of a process or method.

FAQs

How can I use "to explain how" in a sentence?

You can use "to explain how" to introduce a clarification or detailed process. For example, "This guide aims to explain how the system works".

What are some alternatives to "to explain how"?

Alternatives include "to clarify how", "to describe how", or "to illustrate how", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "to explained how" instead of "to explain how"?

No, "to explain how" is the correct infinitive form. "To explained how" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "to explain how" and "to show how"?

"To explain how" focuses on providing a verbal or written account, while "to show how" often involves demonstrating the process visually or practically.