An alternative explanation offered in response to or in opposition to another explanation, often to provide a different interpretation of the same facts.
From counter- + explanation (from Latin explanare, meaning 'to flatten out' or 'to make clear'). Used when competing theories or interpretations exist.
Historical events often have competing counterexplanations—the American Revolution can be explained as a fight for freedom OR as a wealthy colonial rebellion, and historians still debate which explanation better fits the evidence.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.