explains

VERB

make clear; give a reason for

Synonyms

STRONGEST

analyze clarify define demonstrate describe disclose expound illustrate interpret justify point out read resolve reveal solve spell out tell

STRONG

annotate construe decipher diagram elucidate excuse explicate manifest paraphrase rationalize refine render teach translate unfold unravel untangle

WEAK

account for break down bring out clear up get across go into detail make plain put across put in plain English set right throw light upon

Antonyms

STRONGEST

conceal confuse distort hide misrepresent misunderstand question wonder

STRONG

cloud mystify obscure stagnate tangle withhold

WEAK

be vague complicate perplex

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

explains

"The findings suggest that antimicrobial properties played a role as far back as the time of the early Neanderthals and could have been used in a targeted manner," explains Siemssen.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 11, 2026

The BBC’s Gavin Butler explains why the fires are so difficult to battle and produce so much toxic haze.

From BBC ● Oct. 9, 2026

In his newsletter, the Surge, Jim explains one story that’s essential for understanding the news, one story to keep an eye on, and one story that everyone needs to chill out about.

From Slate ● Oct. 9, 2026

“I didn’t react well to adversity,” Mr. David explains.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 9, 2026

“Gabe is worried about this coyote from the fire,” Dad explains to Mr. Larkin.

From "Wayward Creatures" by Dayna Lorentz