Definitions

explanation

[ek-spluh-ney-shuhn] / ˌɛk spləˈneɪ ʃən /

NOUN

clarification; reason

Synonyms

STRONGEST

account answer cause comment commentary confession definition description evidence example excuse expression information interpretation justification meaning motive note report resolution sense statement story summary

STRONG

annotation breakdown brief demonstration details display elucidation explication exposition gloss history illustration mitigation narration recital rendition showing significance specification tale talking telling vindication writing

Antonyms

STRONGEST

ignorance question quiet silence

STRONG

concealment hiding vagueness

WEAK

complication

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.

"Our new study begins to provide a mechanistic explanation for a phenomenon widely seen during aging, which is increased aggregation and dysfunction in the processes that make proteins."

From Science Daily • May 29, 2026

While management insists the weakness is temporary, Boychuk says the explanation “doesn’t align with the momentum and industry activity,” observed at CANSEC, a Canadian defense and security trade show.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

But to my knowledge, and to Ali’s, there has been no public explanation for recommending a no vote.

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2026

Court psychiatrist Peter Hoffmann said Beran A showed no signs of mental illness, adding that there was "no psychiatric explanation" for his radicalisation.

From BBC • May 28, 2026

I want him to apologize for what he’s done, offer some kinda explanation, but he simply bows his head.

From "The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas

Vocabulary lists containing explanation

The Language of Standardized Tests, List 1

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PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)

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The SAT: Language of the Test, List 4

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