explains

VERB

make clear; give a reason for

Synonyms

STRONGEST

analyze clarify define demonstrate describe disclose expound illustrate interpret justify point out read resolve reveal solve spell out tell

STRONG

annotate construe decipher diagram elucidate excuse explicate manifest paraphrase rationalize refine render teach translate unfold unravel untangle

WEAK

account for break down bring out clear up get across go into detail make plain put across put in plain English set right throw light upon

Antonyms

STRONGEST

conceal confuse distort hide misrepresent misunderstand question wonder

STRONG

cloud mystify obscure stagnate tangle withhold

WEAK

be vague complicate perplex

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.

Of her culture, she explains, “Part of your presentation — of dressing up — is your scent.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026

"The deep irony is that this bootstrap idea that we're pursuing now with modern tools and modern ideas is super retro. It's an old idea," Cheung explains.

From Science Daily • May 19, 2026

He explains how Meridian Hill Park was historically a place for the city's Black community to gather, and still is, despite rapid gentrification of the area.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

All of this explains why Exxon is joining a parade of companies, including Tesla, Space X, Coinbase and Dillard’s, that have moved their legal homes to Texas.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 18, 2026

“Brie’s my neighbor,” he explains, pulling up to the curb a few houses down from his.

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison