would you mind explaining

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "would you mind explaining" is both grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used as a polite way to ask someone to provide an explanation or further information. Example: "Would you mind explaining the details of your proposal in more depth?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Audie inquired in a reasonable voice, "Would you mind explaining your story?

The New Yorker

Would you mind explaining your inspiration behind starting and maintaining Homoground?

Huffington Post

"Would you mind explaining to me the purpose of your inquiry?" "I'm the person who found Gagool after she went missing.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Explain to them that 'you feel that she looks up to you and she is trying to be like you, but she is too young too be like you' and try to ask 'If you can, would you mind talking to her and explaining that she is just right how she is' If this person is a good person, they will take the time to explain to your friend what you have requested.

WikiHow

During an early one, Cronkite asked him if he would mind explaining the ending of "2001," and Clarke answered that he didn't think there was enough time — then or later.

The New Yorker

Would you mind talking about the painting a bit and explaining what it is we're looking at?

Huffington Post

A frail-sounding voice answered the phone, and when I explained who I was, Hoban fluted: "Would you mind calling back in half an hour or so?

The Guardian - Books

"Would you mind?" I asked.

The New York Times

"Would you mind doing that?

The New Yorker

Would you mind?

The New York Times

"Would you mind making room?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "would you mind explaining" when you want to make a polite request, especially when asking for potentially complex information.

Common error

Avoid using "would you mind explaining" in very casual conversations where a simpler request like "can you explain?" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "would you mind explaining" functions as a polite interrogative used to request clarification or a more detailed account of something. According to Ludwig, this is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "would you mind explaining" is a polite and grammatically correct phrase used to request an explanation or clarification. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in written English. While suitable for a variety of contexts, it is particularly prevalent in news, media, and professional settings. Remember to consider the level of formality required for your specific situation and choose alternative phrasings like "could you please explain?" for different degrees of politeness or directness. Be mindful of overusing it in very informal scenarios where simpler language might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Could you please explain?

More direct and slightly less formal than the original phrase.

Can you explain?

A simple and direct request for explanation.

Would you be so kind as to explain?

A more formal and elaborate way of asking for an explanation.

I'd appreciate it if you could explain.

Expresses gratitude in advance for the explanation.

I was wondering if you could explain.

Softer approach, implying curiosity rather than demand.

Do you think you could explain?

More hesitant and indirect approach.

Perhaps you could clarify?

Focuses on making something clearer, rather than a full explanation.

Is it possible for you to explain?

Inquires about the possibility of getting an explanation.

Could you elaborate on that?

Asks for more detail rather than a complete explanation.

Could you walk me through it?

Asks for a step-by-step explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "would you mind explaining" in a sentence?

You can use "would you mind explaining" to politely request clarification or detailed information, such as, "Would you mind explaining the process?" or "Would you mind explaining your decision?".

What's a more direct way to ask for an explanation?

A more direct way to ask is by saying "can you explain?" or "could you explain?", but these options are less polite than using "would you mind explaining".

Is "would you mind explaining" formal or informal?

"Would you mind explaining" is generally considered polite and suitable for most situations, but it leans towards the formal side. In very casual settings, a simpler phrasing may be preferred.

What are some alternatives to "would you mind explaining" that are equally polite?

Equally polite alternatives include "could you please explain?", "would you be so kind as to explain?", or "I was wondering if you could explain?".