what is your explanation for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what is your explanation for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking someone to clarify or justify a particular situation, action, or statement. Example: "What is your explanation for the delay in the project timeline?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Q: What is your explanation for your extraordinary sexual charisma?

The New York Times

What is your explanation for Monty Python's popular culture resonance?

Huffington Post

As this use of the AGREE instrument is new in social insurance medicine, we asked one expert in each country who had participated in developing several guidelines for a reaction to our results: "Are these correct in your view and what is your explanation for any insufficient scores?" This study was not submitted for ethical approval.

BMC Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

So, what is the explanation for such huge investments?

The Guardian - Opinion

What is the explanation for this deadly, dreary sameness?

The Guardian - Film

-Darwinism proponent: What is the explanation for the evolution of the protein penicillinase?

The New York Times

But what is the explanation for the poor, in general, being hit harder than the rich?

Independent

And what is the explanation for the link with other allergic diseases like eczema?

Independent

What is the explanation for this recent intensification of Isis suicide bombings outside Syria and Iraq?

Independent

What is the explanation for the fibers?

Evolution: Education and Outreach

What is the explanation for this apparently shifting and tilting balance?

European Journal of Futures Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "what is your explanation for", ensure that the context is clear and that you are directly addressing someone who is expected to provide a justification or reason.

Common error

Avoid using "what is your explanation for" in casual conversations. It can sound overly formal or accusatory. Opt for phrases like "why" or "how do you explain this" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what is your explanation for" serves as an interrogative phrase. It is used to elicit a reason, justification, or account from someone regarding a specific action, event, or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable and correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what is your explanation for" is a grammatically correct interrogative phrase used to solicit a justification or reason from someone. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. It's most frequently found in news and scientific contexts, possessing a neutral to formal register. While effective for seeking clarity and accountability, it's important to be mindful of the tone, as it can sometimes come across as accusatory. Consider alternative phrases like "how do you explain" or "what's the reason for" for softer delivery.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what is your reason for

Focuses specifically on the justification or motive behind an action or decision.

how do you explain

Shifts the focus to the method or process of providing an explanation.

what accounts for

Asks about the factors that contribute to or cause a particular situation.

what's the rationale behind

Seeks the underlying logic or reasoning for something.

can you clarify why

Directly requests clarification on the reasons for something.

what's your take on

Requests a personal perspective or interpretation.

what do you attribute this to

Asks for the cause or origin of a phenomenon or event.

what's the cause of

Focuses on identifying the specific cause of something.

what are the contributing factors

Asks for a list of factors that have influenced a particular outcome.

what's your interpretation of

Requests an understanding or analysis of a specific event or piece of information.

FAQs

How do I use "what is your explanation for" in a sentence?

Use "what is your explanation for" when you want someone to provide a reason or justification for something. For example, "What is your explanation for the missing funds?"

What can I say instead of "what is your explanation for"?

You can use alternatives like "how do you explain", "what's the reason for", or "can you clarify why" depending on the context.

Is "what is your explanation for" accusatory?

While "what is your explanation for" can be neutral, it may come across as accusatory if the tone or context suggests blame. Be mindful of your delivery and consider softer alternatives if needed.

When is it appropriate to use "what is your explanation for"?

It's appropriate in situations where a formal explanation or justification is expected, such as in professional settings, formal inquiries, or when addressing discrepancies or issues that require clarification.