we require an explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we require an explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking for clarification or justification regarding a situation or decision. Example: "Due to the unexpected changes in the project timeline, we require an explanation from the management team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We will require an explanation why nothing has been reported so far," Ljungqvist told The Sydney Daily Telegraph.

The New York Times - Sports

This rule doesn't require an explanation.

The New York Times - Arts

Like other rentals, it did not require an explanation.

Princeton University

A state of affairs that doesn't require an explanation.

Vice

Blackburn thinks that we require such an explanation even if there are metaphysically or nomically necessary connections between moral and nonmoral terms or properties.

SEP

Scotus rejects the view that matter could be responsible for individuation, on the grounds that we require too an explanation for the individuation of (chunks of) matter (Scotus, Ordinatio II, d. 3, p. 1, qq. 5 6, n. 187 (Scotus [OO], 7 483; Spade (1994), 106 107)).

SEP

The dessert roster required an explanation.

The New York Times

This requires an explanation.

Huffington Post

This requires an explanation, right?

Huffington Post

The connectivity increases we observe with sedation require a mechanistic explanation.

Plosone

They require an evolutionary explanation.

Evolutionary Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we require an explanation", ensure the context clearly indicates why the explanation is necessary. State the specific event or situation that warrants clarification to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "we require an explanation" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler phrases like "can you explain?" or "what happened?" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we require an explanation" functions as a request for clarification or justification. It is a direct way of expressing the need for further details regarding a situation or decision. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we require an explanation" is a grammatically correct phrase used to formally request clarification or justification. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not very common, it appears in News & Media, Academia and Science contexts. It implies a need for accountability and a demand for a detailed response. Alternatives like "we need a clarification" or "we request an explanation" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. It's best practice to provide context when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity, and overuse in informal settings should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

We need a clarification

Focuses on the need for clear understanding; less demanding than requiring an explanation.

We seek an explanation

More formal and implies a deliberate search for understanding.

We request an explanation

Polite and formal way to ask for an explanation.

An explanation is needed from us

Passive voice, shifting focus to the explanation itself.

We are asking for an explanation

More direct and conversational.

We would like an explanation

More polite and less assertive.

We expect an explanation

Implies a right or entitlement to an explanation.

We are owed an explanation

Stronger implication of entitlement and potential dissatisfaction.

We demand an explanation

Very assertive and implies dissatisfaction or anger.

Can you clarify this for us?

Shifts the focus to the other party's ability to provide clarity.

FAQs

How to use "we require an explanation" in a sentence?

Use "we require an explanation" when seeking clarification or justification for a specific action, decision, or event. For instance, "Due to the discrepancies in the financial report, "we require an explanation" from the accounting department".

What can I say instead of "we require an explanation"?

Alternatives include "we need a clarification", "we request an explanation", or "can you clarify this for us?" The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "we require an explanation"?

It's appropriate in situations where accountability is expected, such as in professional settings, formal inquiries, or when addressing concerns about decisions made by an organization or individual. It conveys a formal expectation of a detailed response.

What's the difference between "we require an explanation" and "we would like an explanation"?

"We require an explanation" implies a stronger necessity and a higher expectation of receiving a justification. "We would like an explanation" is more polite and suggests a preference rather than a demand.