viable explanation for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "viable explanation for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that provides an answer or solution to a particular problem. For example: "The scientist offered a viable explanation for why the experiment had failed."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

It's the only viable explanation for this horror show from Murray.

The Guardian - Sport

We conclude that an asteroid disruption event is not a viable explanation for the LHB.

Advances in Space Research

Hydrodynamic forces adjacent to the solid surfaces near the column inlet can provide a viable explanation for the hyperexponential shape of RPs.

Geoderma

The earthquakes occur in a region of maximum post-glacial uplift gradients, which supports deglaciation flexure as a viable explanation for these earthquakes.

Quaternary Science Reviews

That's the only viable explanation for why the board operated under strictest secrecy for so long, and why it signed a contract with Sotheby's before it announced what it intended to do.

The New Yorker

Lead author, Dr. Matt Rigby, from the University of Bristol notes that a change in the hydroxyl radical concentration is a viable explanation for the changes in methane that we've seen.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Many economists, however, have pointed to economic growth and increased trade during that period, namely in China, as more viable explanations for the drop in extreme poverty.

Vice

The collapse of extended families, improved health and anticipation of longer life, together with increased competition over wives, are three viable explanations for people working harder in developing countries.

Huffington Post

Also, neither genetic or habitat differences between communities appear to be viable explanations for the gesture's exclusive confinement to Colchester.

Plosone

Combined with the microscopic size of the charcoal samples used, this pattern means that incomplete decontamination and post-depositional intrusion from the overlying Upper Paleolithic are viable explanations for the outliers.

Plosone

Specifically, adaptations that diminish Allee effects and evolutionary responses to density dependence are beginning to emerge as viable explanations for sustaining vulnerable populations at low density and size (Gascoigne et al. 2009).

Evolutionary Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "viable explanation for" to introduce arguments that are not only possible but also realistic and supported by evidence.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "viable explanation for" something as definitive or conclusive when it is merely plausible. Always acknowledge limitations and alternative possibilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "viable explanation for" functions as a noun phrase modifier, specifically an adjectival phrase, that precedes a noun. It describes the type of explanation being offered, indicating that it is both feasible and credible. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

28%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "viable explanation for" is a common and grammatically sound way to introduce a plausible and credible reason or cause. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, highlighting its frequent use in science, news, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the explanation is not only possible but also supported by evidence, avoiding overstatement. Remember that alternatives such as "plausible rationale for" or "credible justification for" may be used to add nuance. In summary, "viable explanation for" is a useful tool for presenting well-supported and realistic accounts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plausible rationale for

Emphasizes the reason or logic behind something, focusing on its apparent reasonableness.

credible justification for

Highlights the trustworthiness and believability of the reason provided.

tenable ground for

Suggests a defensible or sustainable basis for a claim or action.

feasible cause of

Focuses on the practicality and possibility of a particular factor leading to an outcome.

supportable reason for

Indicates that there is evidence or logic to back up the explanation.

defensible account of

Implies that the explanation can be argued for and defended against criticism.

reasonable case for

Suggests a logical and understandable argument in favor of something.

valid basis for

Emphasizes the legitimacy and soundness of the foundation for a belief or action.

logical explanation of

Highlights the rational and coherent nature of the explanation.

well-founded rationale for

Stresses that the reason is based on solid evidence or principles.

FAQs

How can I use "viable explanation for" in a sentence?

Use "viable explanation for" to introduce a reason or cause that is both plausible and supported by evidence. For example: "The scientist offered a "viable explanation for" the unexpected experimental results."

What is a good alternative to "viable explanation for"?

Alternatives include "plausible rationale for", "credible justification for", or "feasible cause of", each emphasizing slightly different aspects of credibility and possibility.

Is it better to say "viable explanation for" or "valid explanation for"?

Both "viable explanation for" and "valid explanation for" are correct, but "viable" emphasizes feasibility and practicality, while "valid" emphasizes logical soundness. Use "viable explanation for" when the focus is on real-world applicability.

What makes an explanation "viable"?

A "viable" explanation is one that is not only logically possible but also realistically applicable and supported by available evidence, making it a credible and practical account.