various explanations for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "various explanations for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing multiple reasons or interpretations related to a specific topic or phenomenon. Example: "There are various explanations for the sudden increase in temperature this summer, including climate change and urban heat effects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Gives various explanations for her behavior.

The New Yorker

There are various explanations for this.

The New York Times

Economists offered various explanations for the discrepancy.

The New York Times

Various explanations for these findings are discussed.

Children and Youth Services Review

They gave various explanations for their decision to marry.

The New York Times

Experts offer various explanations for New York City's high rate.

The New York Times

Analysts offered various explanations for its rebound this week.

The Guardian - Business

There are various explanations for their aversion to politics.

The Washington Post

There are various explanations for Filipinos' draw to the industry.

The New York Times

We discuss various explanations for the origins of these restrictions.

Cognition

Other writers offer various explanations for Wang's reluctance to condemn Mao.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "various explanations for", ensure that you subsequently provide at least two distinct explanations. Otherwise, consider using "a possible explanation for".

Common error

Avoid using "various explanations for" as a placeholder without actually detailing the explanations. If the explanations are unknown or speculative, state that explicitly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "various explanations for" functions as an introductory phrase signaling that multiple reasons or interpretations will be presented to clarify a specific situation, phenomenon, or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

33%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "various explanations for" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to introduce multiple reasons or interpretations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It is frequently found in news, science, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that you are prepared to offer multiple explanations to avoid vagueness. Alternatives include "several reasons for" or "a range of explanations for", depending on the context. The phrase is suitable for neutral register and can be effectively used across various writing styles and source types.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several reasons for

Replaces "various explanations" with "several reasons", focusing on the reasoning behind something.

multiple reasons for

Similar to "several reasons", but emphasizes the multiplicity of reasons.

different reasons for

Highlights the differences among the reasons, rather than just their quantity.

a number of reasons for

More formal way of indicating multiple reasons.

a range of explanations for

Emphasizes the breadth and scope of the explanations.

various reasons that account for

Adds the element of 'accounting for' something, suggesting a cause-and-effect relationship.

several factors that explain

Focuses on 'factors' as contributing elements to the explanations.

multiple contributing factors to

Highlights factors that contribute to an outcome, rather than explanations.

different perspectives on

Shifts the focus to perspectives, implying subjective interpretations.

alternative accounts of

Suggests different narratives or stories that explain something, often with conflicting viewpoints.

FAQs

How do I use "various explanations for" in a sentence?

The phrase "various explanations for" introduces multiple reasons or interpretations related to a specific topic. For example: "There are "various explanations for" the decline in sales, including increased competition and changing consumer preferences."

What can I say instead of "various explanations for"?

You can use alternatives like "several reasons for", "multiple factors that explain", or "a range of explanations for" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "various explanations for" or "different explanations for"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but ""various explanations for"" emphasizes the multiple explanations in general, while "different explanations for" highlights the distinctions between the explanations.

When should I use "possible explanations for" instead of "various explanations for"?

Use "possible explanations for" when the explanations are speculative or unconfirmed. Use ""various explanations for"" when you are presenting multiple established or accepted explanations.