"To explain the association" means to provide a clear and understandable explanation of how two or more things are connected or related to each other. Full definition
These results may explain the association between infant television exposure and delayed language development. (jamanetwork.com)
It is important to note that this does not explain associations of firm control with self - efficacy, as psychological control was unrelated to self - efficacy for diabetes in the present study. (academic.oup.com)
It is unclear whether it is the protein or other nutrients in such food groups that explain the association with type 2 diabetes. (care.diabetesjournals.org)