you explained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "you explained" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that someone has clarified or made understandable in a previous conversation or text. Example: "In your last email, you explained the project requirements very clearly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But she was wrong, which you explained.

The New Yorker

That, you explained, only appeared in the first edition.

The Guardian

You explained poetry as putting something into one well and having it come out another.

The New Yorker

"Those selfish concerns gnawed away at you and you explained your problems to Ogundele.

Independent

"That's New York for you," explained some friends we had met onboard.

The New York Times

You explained that the department's financial position means that these reforms are now essential and work is proceeding at pace".

The Guardian

When you explained it, people lost the will to live – or were amazed anyone got the trains running at all".

The Guardian

"These brushes provide their own motion, so they do the work for you," explained Mr. Mott of Philips Sonicare.

The New York Times

You could become embroiled in the kind of argument where you claim you explained the situation but she claims the ring was an outright gift.

Independent

Do you think writing "musically" as you explained (I know what you mean, since I'm a musician as well) helps significantly with the flow and quality of writing?

The New York Times

What I'm saying is that we want to sell out, and we would love to sell out to you," explained its pitch.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "you explained" to refer back to a previous explanation given by the person you are addressing, ensuring clarity and context in your writing. For a slightly more formal tone, consider using "you clarified".

Common error

Avoid using "you explained" when referring to something you yourself explained. This phrase is meant to acknowledge an explanation provided by the other person. Instead, use phrases like "I explained" or "as I explained earlier".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "you explained" functions as a reporting clause or a rhetorical device used to refer back to a previous statement or clarification made by the person being addressed. Ludwig's examples show it commonly introduces a restatement or a consequence of that explanation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "you explained" is a grammatically correct and common way to refer back to a previous clarification or statement made by the person you are addressing. Ludwig confirms its usability and correctness. It's commonly used in news and media, science and wiki contexts. When using "you explained", ensure you are accurately reflecting what the other person has clarified and avoid misusing it to refer to your own explanations. Consider alternatives such as ""you clarified"" or "you detailed" for nuanced meaning. Remember to avoid the incorrect form "you explained me".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

you clarified

Emphasizes making something clearer or easier to understand.

you detailed

Highlights providing comprehensive information.

you described

Focuses on giving an account of something.

you specified

Stresses pointing out something precisely or distinctly.

you illustrated

Implies using examples to make something easier to understand.

you outlined

Suggests providing a summary or the main points.

you recounted

Focuses on narrating a past event or experience.

you conveyed

Highlights communicating an idea or feeling.

you communicated

Emphasizes the act of sharing information or thoughts.

you informed

Focuses on imparting knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "you explained" in a sentence?

Use "you explained" to refer back to information that someone has previously clarified. For example, "As "you explained", the process involves several steps."

What are some alternatives to "you explained"?

Alternatives include phrases like ""you clarified"", "you detailed", or "you described", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "you explained me"?

No, the correct phrase is ""you explained"". The verb 'explain' does not take an indirect object in this construction. You would say ""you explained" it to me" if you want to include 'me'.

What's the difference between "you explained" and "you clarified"?

"You explained" generally means you gave a detailed account, while ""you clarified"" means you made something easier to understand by removing confusion. The choice depends on whether you are highlighting the explanation itself or its effect on understanding.