Definition

Noun: 1. (Logic) The explanatory statements or premises: In logic and philosophy of science, 'explanans' refers to the set of statements or premises that serve to explain a given phenomenon (the explicandum). It constitutes the explaining part of a scientific explanation.

Usage

The term is used in formal, academic contexts, particularly in logic, philosophy, and theoretical science, to describe the component of an argument that provides the explanation. - It is almost always used in contrast with explicandum (the thing to be explained). - It is typically treated as a singular noun, though it refers to a set of statements.

Examples

• In a scientific paper, the hypothesis and the initial conditions together form the explanans for the observed results.
• A complete explanation requires both a clear and a valid explanans.
• The philosopher analyzed whether the explanans logically necessitated the .

Advanced Usage

• Deductive-Nomological Model: In this model of scientific explanation, the explanans must contain at least one general law and a set of initial conditions, from which the (the description of the phenomenon) is logically deduced.
• Explanans/Explicandum Distinction: This fundamental distinction is crucial for evaluating the structure and validity of any proposed explanation.

Variants and Related Words

• Explicate (verb): To analyze and develop (an idea or principle) in detail. To give a detailed explanation.
• Explication (noun): The process of analyzing and developing an idea in detail. A detailed explanation.
• Explanandum (noun): The thing, fact, or phenomenon that is to be explained.

Synonyms

• Explanatory premises
• Explaining statements
• Explanatory component

Notes

• 'Explanans' is a technical term borrowed directly from Latin, meaning "that which explains." Its usage is almost entirely confined to scholarly discourse.
• Do not confuse with the more common word explanation, which is the general act or result of explaining. 'Explanans' is a specific, formal part an explanation.

Noun

1. (logic) statements that explain the explicandum; the explanatory premises