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.

The combination probably explains the excessive growth, turning the water surface an opaque green and preventing onlookers from seeing the new blue hue of the concrete basin.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 20, 2026

"I was on high doses of vitamin C, vitamin D, turmeric, a special de-bloat supplement and I would regularly drink water with electrolytes in," Ginger explains.

From BBC • Jun. 20, 2026

As the exhibition text explains, “In ancient Egypt, the terrace before the temple functioned as an open meeting place between the deity and larger crowds.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 19, 2026

"One of the most significant findings is that we have identified a molecule capable of restoring microglia's protective function," explains Sánchez Mut.

From Science Daily • Jun. 19, 2026

“Marie is interested in helping lepers all over the world,” Father Torralba explains.

From "At Last She Stood" by Erin Entrada Kelly