we explain that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we explain that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a clarification or elaboration on a topic or statement in a text. Example: "In our research paper, we explain that the results indicate a significant correlation between the variables studied."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

How can we explain that?

The Guardian - Opinion

Did we explain that distinction to gung-ho screenwriter John Milius?

The Guardian - Film

How else can we explain that more young people now favor socialism to capitalism?

The New York Times

"So, how do we explain that Lois is barely in this movie?" "How about a trip to the Bahamas?" "Nah".

Huffington Post

When we talk to our middle and high school students about alcohol abuse, do we explain that alcohol raises the risk of cancer?

Huffington Post

How do we explain that short telomeres limit the function of tissues of slow turnover?

Plosone

Here, we explain that decision and give some historical perspective on the Mini-Monographs.

Environmental Health Perspectives

How can we explain that responsibility falls on health care providers for instrumental communication, whereas it falls on patients for the negotiation of values?

BMC Health Services Research

How would we explain that to Congress?

The New York Times - Health

We explain that we are looking for the Sborowitz company.

The Guardian

How we explain that when someone is cruel or acts like a bully, you don't stoop to their level.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "we clarify that" or "we illustrate that" to diversify your writing and better suit the context.

Common error

Avoid using "we explain that" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "we mean" or "we're saying" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we explain that" functions as a declarative construction, commonly used to introduce an explanation or clarification. It signals that the speaker or writer is about to provide further details or reasons to support a statement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this usage is both correct and frequent.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

54%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we explain that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used construction that serves to introduce an explanation or clarification. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is correct in written English. It finds its primary contexts in scientific, news, and formal business domains, with a neutral to formal register. For alternative phrasing, consider "we clarify that" or "we illustrate that" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Be mindful of its potential overuse in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we clarify that

Replaces "explain" with "clarify", suggesting a simplification or removal of ambiguity.

we elucidate that

Replaces "explain" with "elucidate", implying a more detailed and thorough explanation.

we demonstrate that

Focuses on showing or proving something, rather than simply explaining it.

we illustrate that

Emphasizes providing examples to make something clearer.

we indicate that

Offers a more subtle way of pointing something out, without a full explanation.

we reveal that

Suggests uncovering something previously unknown.

we propose that

Introduces a suggestion or theory, rather than a definitive explanation.

we hypothesize that

Presents a tentative explanation that needs further testing.

we posit that

Introduces a statement assumed to be true for the sake of argument.

we submit that

Offers an opinion or argument respectfully and formally.

FAQs

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

The phrase "we explain that" is typically used to introduce a clarification, justification, or detailed description within a written work. For example, "In this section, "we explain that" the results indicate a significant correlation between the variables studied."

What can I say instead of "we explain that"?

You can use alternatives like "we clarify that", "we illustrate that", or "we demonstrate that" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "we explain that" in formal writing?

Yes, "we explain that" is perfectly appropriate for formal writing, especially in academic papers, reports, and technical documents. It provides a clear and direct way to introduce an explanation or clarification.

What's the difference between "we explain that" and "we suggest that"?

"We explain that" indicates a presentation of facts or reasons to make something clear, while "we suggest that" introduces a proposal or idea for consideration. The former implies clarity and the latter implies possibility.