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.
“When I explain why to people, they’re happy to pay what I ask them,” Flores said.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026
When Emma tries to explain herself the day after the confession, she admits, “I liked the aesthetics of it.”
From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026
Researchers are now investigating whether shifts in the gut microbiome could help explain these benefits.
From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026
While that may help explain its long-term outperformance, it’s worth noting the fund has managed to beat most of its category rivals without adding much risk.
From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026
A screen where I could type and delete and try again until I found the right way to explain.
From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison
From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.
