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.
And a look at Rossetti’s social media presence helps explain why.
From Slate • Jun. 8, 2026
It called on the MoD to explain how the current operating restrictions were realistic and appropriate.
From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026
Her stories seek to explain Canada's evolving relationship with the U.S. and its broader place in the world.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026
But it’s not clear if these explain disease patterns among Asian Americans in the United States.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026
“Close enough that my dad can drive me. That’s why I was late getting on the game. I had a lot to explain to him.”
From "Bye Forever, I Guess" by Jodi Meadows
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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