to provide context

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to provide context" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain the larger context for something that is being discussed. For example, "In order to provide context for this discussion, it is important to note the historical events that led up to it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

There are no explanations to provide context.

The New York Times - Books

"The strength of mobile is its ability to provide context," says Lieberman.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This more traditional documentary stepped outside the purely observational and tried to provide context.

The New York Times

He had at least a few hours to call people, to access information, to provide context.

The New Yorker

Oldham strives to provide context, but too often serves up platitudes.

The New York Times - Books

To provide context for those swings, Ms. Mapes suggested that MySpace develop a new button.

The New York Times

Being able to provide context or search capability has inherent value in the digital world.

The Guardian

We also called the more important ones to provide context difficult to fire as bullet points.

The New York Times

None of which fazes Mr. Psihoyos, an urbane eco-warrior who pops up periodically to provide context and clarification.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Application developers can configure and extend it with application-specific methods to provide context-aware services.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

This knowledge is important to provide context-aware delivery methods that can generate content that meets the immediate learning goals.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to provide context", ensure the additional information genuinely aids understanding and isn't merely tangential. Be precise; avoid overwhelming the audience with unnecessary details.

Common error

Avoid using "to provide context" as an excuse to include excessive or irrelevant information. Focus on details directly pertinent to the primary subject; keep it concise and focused.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to provide context" functions as an infinitive of purpose, often introducing an explanation or background information that helps the audience understand a given situation, statement, or concept. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to provide context" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase that serves to introduce background information, enhance understanding, or clarify a situation. As Ludwig AI points out, it's versatile enough for use in both formal and informal settings, with frequent occurrences in News & Media and Scientific sources. To ensure effective use, remember to keep the provided context relevant and concise, avoiding unnecessary details that could overwhelm the audience. By using alternatives and understanding the phrase's function, you can enhance your writing and communication skills.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to offer background

Focuses on giving preceding events or details.

to furnish clarification

Emphasizes making something clearer and easier to understand.

to give perspective

Highlights presenting a specific viewpoint or angle.

to add color

Suggests enriching the information with details.

to set the stage

Implies preparing the setting or environment for something.

to illuminate the matter

Focuses on bringing understanding and insight.

to flesh out details

Suggests adding more substance and completeness.

to explain the circumstances

Highlights describing the surrounding conditions or situation.

to frame the issue

Emphasizes structuring or presenting an issue in a particular way.

to supply a framework

Implies giving a basic structure or system for understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "to provide context" in a sentence?

You can use "to provide context" at the beginning of a sentence (To provide context, I'll briefly summarize the events leading up to this decision) or within a clause (The speaker paused to provide context for her controversial statement).

What are some alternatives to "to provide context"?

You can use alternatives such as "to offer background", "to furnish clarification", or "to give perspective".

Is it redundant to say "to provide historical context"?

While not strictly redundant, it can sometimes be more concise to simply say "to provide history" or "to give the historical background". Whether or not it's redundant depends on how specifically you need to emphasize the contextual aspect.

What's the difference between "to provide context" and "to offer an explanation"?

"To provide context" aims to give background information or a broader view, while "to offer an explanation" /s/to+offer+an+explanation focuses on making something understandable or clear. Context sets the stage; explanation clarifies details.