to explain that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to explain that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify or provide additional information about a specific point or topic. Example: "The author aims to explain that the results of the study have significant implications for future research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

You're going to have to explain that".

The New York Times - Travel

"It takes a rocket scientist to explain that thing.

The New York Times - Sports

"I don't think I'd need to explain that".

The New Yorker

We can't even begin to explain that joy".

The Guardian - Music

How to explain that move?

Forbes

How to explain that?

Huffington Post

How to explain that paradox?

Huffington Post

How is Kanye going to explain that?

Vice

Ah? Care to explain that ah, lady?

Huffington Post

She's going to have to explain that".

Huffington Post

"Do I really have to explain that?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to explain that" when you need to provide a reason, justification, or clarification for something previously mentioned or implied. Make sure the context is clear so your reader understands what you are explaining.

Common error

Avoid using "to explain that" in sentences that are already convoluted. If your sentence becomes too long and winding when adding the phrase, break it down into smaller, more digestible sentences for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to explain that" functions as an infinitive phrase often used to introduce a clause that provides clarification, justification, or further detail regarding a previous statement or situation. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to explain that" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce explanations or clarifications. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it serves to elaborate and provide clarity. While alternatives like "to clarify that" or "to elucidate that" can be used depending on the desired level of formality, remember to avoid overly complex sentences when incorporating the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to elucidate that

Emphasizes making something clear and easy to understand, often something complex.

to clarify that

Focuses on removing ambiguity and making something more precise.

to elaborate on that

Means adding more details and information to provide a fuller picture.

to explicate that

Similar to elucidate, explicate suggests a detailed and thorough explanation, often of a text or idea.

to account for that

Highlights providing a reason or justification for something.

to justify that

Suggests providing a strong defense or rationale for an action or belief.

to rationalize that

Implies finding a logical or acceptable explanation, even if it's not entirely true.

to spell that out

Emphasizes making something extremely clear, often because it's difficult to understand or because the audience is assumed to be unfamiliar with the topic.

to detail that

Involves providing a comprehensive account with specific information and data.

to break that down

Refers to simplifying complex information into smaller, easier-to-understand components.

FAQs

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

Use "to explain that" to introduce a clarifying statement or justification. For example, "The data is skewed; I need "to explain that" it was collected during a specific period".

What are some alternatives to "to explain that"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "to clarify that", "to elaborate on that", or "to justify that".

Is there a more formal way to say "to explain that"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "to elucidate that" or "to explicate that". These options lend a more academic or professional tone.

What's the difference between "to explain that" and "to explain why"?

"To explain that" introduces a clarification or further detail, while "to explain why" introduces a reason or cause. For example, "I need "to explain that" the numbers are preliminary" (clarification) versus "I need to explain why the numbers are low" (reason).