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.
Its dominant space technologies, growth and ties to AI help explain why its debut is expected to rival those of some state-run companies and tech giants.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026
Scientists infer its existence because gravity around galaxies appears stronger than visible matter alone can explain.
From Science Daily • May 19, 2026
"They don't explain why he voted for smaller government," said Congressman Warren Davidson of Ohio, who campaigned with Massie in Florence.
From BBC • May 18, 2026
"Can anyone explain what that has to do with the World Cup? Nothing," Steyer said.
From Barron's • May 18, 2026
She would explain it all later to Uncle Manfred and Aunt Lotti, when they came home, she said.
From "An Elephant in the Garden" by Michael Morpurgo
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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