Description vs Explanation: When To Use Each One In Writing?

Have you ever been confused about whether to use the word “description” or “explanation”? It’s a common dilemma, but fear not, as we’re here to clear things up for you.

Both words can be used in certain situations, but there is a distinct difference between the two. “Description” refers to the act of providing a detailed account of something, while “explanation” means to clarify or make something understandable.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two words, and provide examples of when it’s appropriate to use each one.

Define Description

Description is the process of providing details about a particular object, person, or situation. It involves using words to create a mental image of the subject in the reader’s mind. A good description should be vivid, engaging, and accurate. It should paint a clear picture of the subject and help the reader understand its characteristics, features, and qualities. Descriptions can be used in various forms of writing, such as fiction, poetry, and non-fiction.

Define Explanation

Explanation is the process of providing information about a particular topic, concept, or idea. It involves using words to clarify and simplify complex ideas, making them easier to understand. A good explanation should be clear, concise, and accurate. It should provide the reader with a deeper understanding of the subject and help them connect the dots between different ideas. Explanations can be used in various forms of writing, such as science, philosophy, and education.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the right words in a sentence is crucial in conveying the intended meaning to the reader. Two words that are often confused are “description” and “explanation.” Understanding the difference between these words and how to use them properly can greatly enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your writing.

How To Use “Description” In A Sentence

“Description” refers to the act of providing details about something or someone. It is used to create a mental image of the subject being described. Here are some tips on how to use “description” in a sentence:

• Use vivid and sensory language to create a clear mental picture for the reader.
• Focus on specific details that are relevant to the subject being described.
• Avoid using vague or general descriptions that can confuse the reader.
• Use “description” to set the scene or create a mood in your writing.

For example:

“The sun was setting over the horizon, casting a warm orange glow across the sky. The waves crashed against the shore, sending salty mist into the air.”

How To Use “Explanation” In A Sentence

“Explanation” refers to the act of providing information or clarification about something. It is used to help the reader understand a concept or idea. Here are some tips on how to use “explanation” in a sentence:

• Be clear and concise in your explanation to avoid confusion.
• Use examples or analogies to help illustrate your point.
• Provide enough information to fully explain the concept, but avoid overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details.
• Use “explanation” to provide context or background information in your writing.

For example:

“The theory of relativity, developed by Albert Einstein, explains the relationship between space and time. In simple terms, it states that time can appear to move slower or faster depending on the speed at which an object is moving.”

More Examples Of Description & Explanation Used In Sentences

In order to fully understand the difference between description and explanation, it’s important to see them in action. Here are some examples of how each can be used in a sentence:

Examples Of Using Description In A Sentence

• The sky was a deep shade of blue, with fluffy white clouds scattered across it.
• The old, wooden house had a wraparound porch and a white picket fence.
• She wore a long, flowing dress that was the color of the ocean.
• The scent of freshly baked cookies filled the air.
• The painting was a vibrant mix of reds, yellows, and oranges.
• His voice was deep and gravelly, like the rumble of a train.
• The room was dimly lit, with flickering candles casting shadows on the walls.
• The water was crystal clear, with fish darting back and forth beneath the surface.
• The mountain range stretched out as far as the eye could see, with snow-capped peaks reaching towards the sky.
• The city was alive with the sounds of car horns, chatter, and music.

Examples Of Using Explanation In A Sentence

• The reason the sky appears blue is due to the way that light is scattered in the Earth’s atmosphere.
• The purpose of a white picket fence is to provide a decorative boundary around a property.
• The reason her dress was the color of the ocean is because it was made from a special type of fabric that reflects light in a certain way.
• The reason we can smell the cookies baking is because the heat causes the scent molecules to evaporate into the air.
• The reason the painting is so vibrant is because the artist used a technique called color blocking to create contrast between different hues.
• The reason his voice sounds like a train is because he has a condition called vocal fry, which causes his vocal cords to vibrate at a low frequency.
• The reason the room is dimly lit is because the candles are providing the only source of light.
• The reason we can see the fish in the water is because light is able to penetrate the surface and reflect off of their scales.
• The reason the mountain range has snow-capped peaks is because of the altitude and the colder temperatures at higher elevations.
• The reason the city is so noisy is because it is densely populated, with lots of people and vehicles in a small area.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to writing, it can be easy to confuse description and explanation. While both are important tools in a writer’s arsenal, they serve different purposes and should not be used interchangeably. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Mistake #1: Using Description When Explanation Is Needed

One common mistake is using description when explanation is actually needed. Description is used to paint a picture in the reader’s mind, while explanation is used to clarify a concept or idea. For example, if you are writing about a scientific process, describing the steps involved may not be enough. You need to explain why each step is important and how they all fit together.

To avoid this mistake, make sure you understand the purpose of each tool and use them accordingly. If you are unsure, ask yourself whether you are trying to create a mental image or clarify a concept.

Mistake #2: Using Explanation When Description Is Needed

On the other hand, using explanation when description is needed can also be a problem. Description is used to create a sensory experience for the reader, while explanation is used to convey information. For example, if you are describing a character in a story, explaining their personality traits may not be enough. You need to describe their appearance, mannerisms, and other sensory details to bring them to life.

To avoid this mistake, think about the sensory experience you want to create for the reader. What do you want them to see, hear, smell, taste, or feel? Use vivid and specific language to create a rich and immersive experience.

Mistake #3: Overusing Adjectives And Adverbs

Another common mistake is overusing adjectives and adverbs in an attempt to create description. While these words can be useful, they can also become repetitive and dilute the impact of your writing. Instead of relying on adjectives and adverbs, try using strong nouns and verbs to create a more vivid and concise description.

To avoid this mistake, focus on the specific details that are most important to your description. What are the key features or characteristics that you want to highlight? Use precise language to convey these details without relying on generic modifiers.

Tips For Avoiding These Mistakes

• Be clear on the purpose of each tool (description vs explanation)
• Think about the sensory experience you want to create for the reader
• Use strong nouns and verbs instead of relying on adjectives and adverbs
• Edit your writing to remove any unnecessary or repetitive language

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between description and explanation, context is a crucial factor that cannot be ignored. Depending on the context in which they are used, the choice between description and explanation can vary.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between description and explanation might change:

Context	Choice between Description and Explanation
Scientific Research	In scientific research, explanation is often preferred over description. This is because scientists are interested in understanding the underlying principles and mechanisms behind a phenomenon, rather than simply describing what is happening.
Technical Writing	When it comes to technical writing, description is often more appropriate than explanation. This is because technical writing is typically focused on providing clear and concise instructions or specifications, rather than delving into the underlying theory.
Artistic Expression	In the context of artistic expression, both description and explanation can be valuable tools. Description can help to create vivid and immersive imagery, while explanation can provide insight into the artist’s creative process and intentions.

As these examples illustrate, the choice between description and explanation depends on the specific context in which they are used. By understanding the nuances of each approach and the context in which they are most appropriate, we can communicate more effectively and meaningfully with our audience.

Exceptions To The Rules

While description and explanation are important tools for effective communication, there are instances where the rules for using them may not apply. Here are some exceptions to keep in mind:

1. Technical Writing

When it comes to technical writing, the use of explanation is often preferred over description. This is because technical writing typically involves complex concepts and processes that are best conveyed through clear and concise explanations. For example, in a user manual for a piece of software, it is more effective to explain how to perform a task step-by-step rather than describe the interface in detail.

2. Creative Writing

Creative writing, such as poetry or fiction, often relies heavily on description to create vivid imagery and evoke emotions in the reader. In this case, the rules for using description and explanation may not apply in the same way. While some explanation may be necessary to clarify certain details, the focus is on painting a picture with words rather than providing a logical explanation.

3. Personal Communication

In personal communication, such as conversations with friends or family, the rules for using description and explanation may be more flexible. Depending on the context and the people involved, it may be more appropriate to use more description or more explanation to get your point across. For example, if you are discussing a complex topic with someone who is not familiar with the subject matter, you may need to use more explanation to ensure they understand.

4. Cultural Differences

Cultural differences can also impact the way that description and explanation are used. In some cultures, it may be more common to use more description to convey information, while in others, explanation may be preferred. It is important to be aware of these cultural differences and adjust your communication style accordingly.

5. Context

Finally, the context in which you are communicating can also impact the rules for using description and explanation. For example, in a formal business setting, it may be more appropriate to use more explanation to ensure that everyone is on the same page. In a more casual setting, such as a social gathering, more description may be used to create a more relaxed and conversational atmosphere.

Overall, while the rules for using description and explanation are important to keep in mind, it is also important to be aware of these exceptions and adjust your communication style accordingly.

Practice Exercises

Now that we have explored the difference between description and explanation, it is time to put it into practice. Below are some exercises that will help you improve your understanding and usage of these two concepts in sentences.

Exercise 1: Description Or Explanation?

Sentence	Description or Explanation?
The sky is blue.	Description
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.	Explanation
The car is parked in the driveway.	Description
The reason why the moon appears to change shape is because of its orbit around the Earth.	Explanation
The cake was moist and fluffy.	Description
The law of gravity states that any two masses in the universe attract each other with a force that is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.	Explanation

Answer key: 1. Description, 2. Explanation, 3. Description, 4. Explanation, 5. Description, 6. Explanation

Exercise 2: Writing Practice

Write three sentences that demonstrate your understanding of the difference between description and explanation. Make sure to label each sentence as either a description or an explanation.

Answer key: The answers will vary depending on the individual’s writing, but make sure to check that each sentence is properly labeled as either a description or an explanation.

By practicing these exercises, you can improve your ability to distinguish between description and explanation and use them effectively in your writing. Remember, descriptions provide sensory details to create a mental picture, while explanations provide information to clarify a concept or process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the difference between description and explanation is crucial for effective communication. While descriptions provide a visual or sensory experience of something, explanations offer a deeper understanding of why or how something works.

It is important to note that both description and explanation have their place in language use. Descriptions are helpful in creating vivid imagery and engaging the reader, while explanations provide clarity and insight into complex topics.

By mastering the use of both description and explanation, writers can effectively convey their message and connect with their audience.

Key Takeaways:

• Descriptions provide a visual or sensory experience of something.
• Explanations offer a deeper understanding of why or how something works.
• Both description and explanation have their place in language use.
• Mastering the use of both can help writers effectively convey their message and connect with their audience.

As with any aspect of grammar and language use, continued learning and practice is important for improvement. By expanding your knowledge and skills in this area, you can become a more effective communicator and writer.