explain
Usage
What are other ways to say explain?
To explain is to make plain, clear, or intelligible something that is not known or understood: to explain a theory or a problem. To elucidate is to throw light on what before was dark and obscure, usually by illustration and commentary and sometimes by elaborate explanation: They asked him to elucidate his statement. To expound is to give a methodical, detailed, scholarly explanation of something, usually Scriptures, doctrines, or philosophy: to expound the doctrine of free will. To interpret is to give the meaning of something by paraphrase, by translation, or by an explanation based on personal opinion: to interpret a poem or a symbol.
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.
It may also help explain why the construction of megalithic tombs and other large stone monuments came to an end across Europe during this period.
From Science Daily • Apr. 22, 2026
“There is also a mysterious space between bodies, the client and myself, where something happens that I cannot really explain, but it feels magical,” she says.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026
The company didn’t explain its updated outlook in the earnings release.
From Barron's • Apr. 21, 2026
Others who work on the EUV machines used the Lego kits to explain to their families what they actually do.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026
I opened my mouth to explain how Russell had waited for me that first day, but she stopped me cold.
From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu
Vocabulary lists containing explain
PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)
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Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List
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The SAT: Language of the Test, List 4
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