Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com

by way of explanation

ADVERB
namely
Synonyms
STRONGEST
especially i.e. particularly specially specifically
STRONG
videlicet viz.
WEAK
expressly id est in other words in plain English scilicet strictly speaking that is to wit
Antonyms
STRONGEST
broadly commonly generally usually
ADVERB
scilicet
Synonyms
WEAK
especially expressly i.e. id est in other words in plain English particularly specially specifically strictly speaking that is to wit videlicet viz.
ADVERB
videlicet
Synonyms
STRONGEST
namely that is
STRONG
viz.
WEAK
especially expressly i.e. id est in other words in plain English particularly scilicet specially specifically strictly speaking to wit

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.

"I’m ugly," he offered, by way of explanation.

From Salon • Jan. 19, 2025

“Maybe the sunny spin that musicals tend to put on a chaotic reality has always drawn me to the form,” he offers, by way of explanation.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 5, 2024

"I think I'm British," she told Rolling Stone, by way of explanation.

From BBC • Jan. 17, 2024

“It would be like asking my daughter if she prefers my wife or me,” he said, by way of explanation.

From New York Times • Dec. 1, 2023

“It turned out to be easier,” he grumbled by way of explanation.

From "The Milagro Beanfield War" by John Nichols