we explained this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we explained this" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a previous explanation provided to someone about a specific topic or issue. Example: "During the meeting, we explained this in detail to ensure everyone understood the process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"When we explained this to Hope," Mr. Steinman said, "she thought we were already married".

The New York Times

But when we explained this to Oregón and his mother, Emma, she put a stop to the conversation.

The New Yorker

We explained this to our bank, Lloyds TSB, but all they would help us with was short-term reduced payments.

The Guardian - Money

They did not see the work that we did in more rural areas of the country and we explained this work to them.

The Guardian

We explained this again in our 2011 PNAS paper, and we demonstrate it again in the present Perspective: In a stationary climate you'd get approximately the same amount of hot and cold records.

The New York Times

We explained this stable phenomenon by referring to the conjugation concept in the chemistry field.

Materials Science and Engineering: A

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

How can we explain this huge discrepancy?

The New York Times

How can we explain this?

The Guardian

How can we explain this change of heart?

The Guardian - Opinion

How can we explain this lack of progress?

The Guardian

So how can we explain this resurgence of bibs and buckles?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we explained this", ensure the context clearly indicates what "this" refers to. Avoid ambiguity by providing sufficient background information.

Common error

Avoid using "we explained this" without a clear antecedent for "this". Readers should not have to guess what you are referring to. Be specific or provide a brief reminder.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we explained this" typically serves as a transitive verb phrase, functioning to indicate that the speakers previously provided an explanation regarding a particular subject. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. The examples from Ludwig show that it is used to refer back to something that has already been discussed.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we explained this" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to refer back to a previously provided explanation. Ludwig's analysis suggests it is primarily used in neutral to professional contexts, particularly in scientific and news media, where clarity and reference to prior information are crucial. While versatile, it's essential to ensure that the reference is clear to avoid ambiguity. The availability of alternatives, such as "we clarified this" or "we detailed this", provides options for varying the tone and emphasis, based on the message you want to transmit. Therefore, remember to provide context and clarity when using the expression "we explained this".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we clarified this

Uses "clarified" instead of "explained", suggesting a focus on making something clearer.

we elucidated this

Replaces "explained" with "elucidated", indicating a more detailed and thorough explanation.

we detailed this

Substitutes "explained" with "detailed", emphasizing a comprehensive presentation of information.

we described this

Replaces "explained" with "described", focusing on providing an account or representation.

we outlined this

Uses "outlined" instead of "explained", suggesting a summary or overview was given.

we justified this

Substitutes "explained" with "justified", implying a defense or rationale was provided.

we demonstrated this

Replaces "explained" with "demonstrated", focusing on showing or proving something.

we showed this

Uses "showed" instead of "explained", suggesting a visual or practical demonstration.

we illustrated this

Replaces "explained" with "illustrated", indicating the use of examples or visual aids.

we interpreted this

Substitutes "explained" with "interpreted", suggesting an analysis or understanding was provided.

FAQs

How can I use "we explained this" in a sentence?

You can use "we explained this" to refer back to something that was previously clarified or detailed. For example, "We presented the data in the report, and "we explained this" during the meeting last week".

What's a more formal way to say "we explained this"?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives such as "we elucidated this" or "we clarified this". These options often suit academic or professional writing.

What can I say instead of "we explained this" if I want to emphasize the reasoning behind something?

If you want to emphasize the reasoning, use alternatives like "we justified this" or "we rationalized this". These phrases highlight the logic behind a decision or action.

How do "we explained this" and "we described this" differ?

"We explained this" implies providing a reason or understanding, while "we described this" simply means giving details about something. Explanation focuses on 'why', while description focuses on 'what'.