two factors explain this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "two factors explain this" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing reasons or causes for a particular situation or outcome, typically in analytical or academic contexts. Example: "In analyzing the decline in sales, two factors explain this: increased competition and changes in consumer preferences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Two factors explain this profit picture.

The New York Times

In Tewksbury Township, two factors explain this feat: zoning and geology.

The New York Times - Travel

Two factors explain this choice in relation to blended CBT.

BMC Psychiatry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Two factors explain the shift.

The Washington Post

Two factors explain the borrowing overshoot.

The Guardian - Business

Two factors explain the inflation increase.

The Guardian - Business

Two factors explain the economy's previous false starts.

The Economist

Two factors explain the current alarming increase in urban water demand.

Applied Water Science

I suspect two factors explain the criticism and lack of positive attention.

Huffington Post

Two factors explain the Great Smoky Mountain study's findings.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health

There are two factors explaining the concave curves.

Bioinformatics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, ensure that the 'factors' you introduce are genuinely distinct and contribute significantly to the explanation. Avoid stating two sides of the same argument.

Common error

Avoid using "two factors explain this" if the situation involves more than two significant contributing factors. Oversimplification can mislead readers and weaken your analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "two factors explain this" functions as a causal connector, introducing an explanation that relies on two primary reasons or causes. Ludwig shows examples from various domains, demonstrating its versatility in analytical contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "two factors explain this" serves as a causal connector used to clearly articulate two main reasons behind a specific event or situation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and versatile, suitable for formal writing across diverse fields such as news, media, and scientific analysis. While simple, it's important to avoid oversimplification and ensure that the factors genuinely explain the point. For variety, consider alternatives like "two reasons account for this". Its usage appears most frequently in news and scientific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two reasons account for this

Replaces "factors" with "reasons", focusing on justification rather than underlying elements.

this is attributable to two main causes

More formal, emphasizing direct causation and importance of the reasons.

two elements clarify this

Shifts the focus to understanding or making something clearer.

the explanation hinges on two points

Highlights the critical importance of the reasons in providing a full explanation.

two primary drivers explain this

Emphasizes the propelling or motivating nature of the factors.

this phenomenon stems from two key aspects

Suitable for describing the origin or development of a particular phenomenon.

we can attribute this to two significant items

More direct and assertive, emphasizing attribution.

two considerations shed light on this

Focuses on the act of gaining insights or understanding.

the root of this lies in two components

Highlights the fundamental or essential nature of the causes.

two facets elucidate this

Focuses on distinct aspects that make something easier to understand.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "two factors explain this" for variety?

You can use alternatives such as "two reasons account for this", "this is attributable to two main causes", or "two elements clarify this" depending on the context.

Is "two factors explain this" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "two factors explain this" is suitable for formal writing. However, consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "the explanation hinges on two points" for added impact.

When should I avoid using "two factors explain this"?

Avoid using "two factors explain this" if the situation involves more than two significant factors. In such cases, it's better to say "several factors explain this" or list all relevant factors.

What's the difference between "two factors explain this" and "two primary drivers explain this"?

"Two factors explain this" is a general statement. "Two primary drivers explain this" specifically emphasizes that the factors are the main motivating forces behind the outcome.