we need an explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence 'we need an explanation' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to ask or demand an explanation for something. For example: "We need an explanation for why our order was not delivered on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

We need an explanation.

The New York Times

"We need an explanation," Mr. Vallone said.

The New York Times

"We need an explanation and we need it promptly," he said.

The Guardian

He added: "We need an explanation why there are so many terrorists from Saudi Arabia, the Gulf, Egypt... European countries.

Independent

We like leaders who are good to us and we need an explanation about why he fell," wrote one Chongqing resident.

Independent

Keith Vaz, chairman of the Committee, said: "We need an explanation as to why it has taken Soca so long to pass the information to the Information Commissioner.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

But if all of the universes have exactly the same laws – as in Hawking and Hertog's proposal – the problem returns, as we now need an explanation of why the single set of laws that govern the entire multiverse is fine-tuned.

The Guardian - Opinion

We need an alternative explanation that could help us understand the polarization process from the point of view of technological changes within industries, especially for the crisis.

SERIEs

If this is right, it seems we need an alternative explanation of why moral responsibility is absent in those cases where control of causes is absent.

SEP

His basic point is that, if a has property F, we need an ontological explanation of why F and a happen to be connected in such a way that a has F as one of its properties (unless F is a property that a has necessarily).

SEP

If it does not, and we continue to find Bridge objectionable while Trolley is fine, then Greene's proposed explanation cannot be right: we need a different explanation for this pair of cases, such as the reason-giving explanation deontological philosophers would give.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we need an explanation" in formal writing, ensure the context clearly identifies who "we" refers to. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the group or entity seeking the explanation.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "we need an explanation" can sound demanding in casual settings. Opt for softer phrasing like "could you explain?" or "I'm a bit confused about…" to maintain a friendly tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we need an explanation" functions as a request or demand for clarification or justification. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It serves to initiate a dialogue or prompt someone to provide further information.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we need an explanation" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to express a need for clarification or justification. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and wide application across various contexts. It's most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While versatile, consider the tone and adjust the phrasing for very informal scenarios. Related phrases like "we require an explanation" or "we deserve an explanation" offer alternative ways to convey a similar meaning with slight nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we require an explanation

Replaces "need" with the more formal "require".

we demand an explanation

Emphasizes a stronger, more assertive request.

we are owed an explanation

Indicates that an explanation is due as a matter of right or expectation.

we're seeking an explanation

Uses the contracted form "we're" and the continuous tense "seeking" for a slightly less formal tone.

we expect an explanation

Highlights the expectation of receiving an explanation.

we'd like an explanation

Uses "we'd like" for a more polite request.

we seek clarification

Replaces "explanation" with the broader term "clarification".

an explanation is required from us

Changes the sentence structure to emphasize the necessity of an explanation.

an account is needed from us

Emphasizes the need for an account or report, implying a more detailed explanation.

justify yourselves to us

Shifts the focus to the other party's need to provide justification.

FAQs

How can I use "we need an explanation" in a sentence?

Use "we need an explanation" when a justification or clarification is required for a particular situation. For instance, "We need an explanation for the sudden change in policy".

What's a more polite way to say "we need an explanation"?

You can use softer alternatives like "we'd like an explanation" or "could you explain" depending on the context.

Is "we need an explanation" formal or informal?

"We need an explanation" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts. However, in very informal situations, a more conversational phrase might be preferred.

What's the difference between "we need an explanation" and "we deserve an explanation"?

"We need an explanation" simply expresses a requirement for clarification. "We deserve an explanation" implies that there is a right or entitlement to receive one.