what explains this difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what explains this difference" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing or analyzing variations or discrepancies between two or more subjects or situations. Example: "In the study, we found several factors that contribute to the observed outcomes, but what explains this difference in results?"

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

What explains this difference?

Science Magazine

But what explains this difference in moral response?

SEP

So what explains this difference between the polls and the pundits?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

What explains this persistent difference?

The Washington Post

What explains this big difference?In this section What Angela isn't saying Out of the frying pan Summers v Yellen Collective guilt Zoning out Carry on trading Different scales Glorious and arduous Correction: America's GDP ReprintsThe amount of wild fish captured globally has barely changed in the past two decades.

The Economist

Defenders of qualia say that what explains this is the difference in the qualia of their mental states.

SEP

And this is what explains the difference in labour supply.

Forbes

What explains the difference?

The New York Times

What explains the difference between sequester and the cliff?

The Washington Post

What explains the difference between the two surveys?

The New York Times

What explains the difference in contribution patterns between treatment and control?

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the level of formality required; while generally appropriate, in highly formal or academic writing, "what accounts for this difference?" might be preferred.

Common error

Avoid assuming a direct cause-and-effect relationship when asking "what explains this difference?". Recognize that multiple factors may interact, and failing to account for confounding variables can lead to inaccurate conclusions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what explains this difference" functions as an interrogative clause, specifically designed to solicit an explanation or reason for an observed discrepancy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what explains this difference" is a grammatically sound and commonly used interrogative phrase employed to seek explanations for observed variations across diverse contexts. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's deemed correct and versatile. Predominantly featured in news, scientific, and academic domains, it prompts deeper analysis into underlying causes. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the comparison subjects to mitigate ambiguity. For a more formal approach, consider alternatives such as "what accounts for this difference". Be mindful of potential confounding factors to avoid simplistic causal assumptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

What accounts for this difference?

Replaces "explains" with "accounts for", focusing on the factors that contribute to the difference.

What is the reason for this difference?

Substitutes "explains" with "reason for", directly asking for the cause.

Why is there this difference?

Uses a more direct question format, focusing on the existence of the difference.

What factors contribute to this difference?

Emphasizes the multiple factors that might be involved in creating the difference.

What are the underlying causes of this difference?

Focuses on the fundamental reasons that produce the difference.

What mechanisms explain this difference?

Highlights the processes or systems that result in the difference.

How can this difference be explained?

Shifts the focus to the method of explanation rather than the cause itself.

What is the explanation for this difference?

Asks for a specific explanation, often implying a formal or structured account.

What is the source of this difference?

Focuses on the origin or root from which the difference arises.

What brings about this difference?

Highlights the active agent or event that causes the difference to occur.

FAQs

How do I use "what explains this difference" in a sentence?

Use "what explains this difference" to inquire about the reasons behind a discrepancy between two or more things. For example, "The study showed a variance in results between the two groups; what explains this difference?"

What's a more formal alternative to "what explains this difference"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "what accounts for this difference" or "what is the reason for this difference".

Is "what explains this difference" grammatically correct?

Yes, "what explains this difference" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English. It is a straightforward way to ask for an explanation.

What's the difference between "what explains this difference" and "why is there this difference"?

"What explains this difference" seeks a detailed explanation, while "why is there this difference" simply asks for the reason behind it. The former implies a more thorough analysis.