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.

A nameless handyman with a mysterious past that receives, and requires, no explanation, Miao’s face is plenty expressive.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

It is something that triggers the construction of an alternative explanation.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026

As with red baseball caps, it is a calling card that evokes his presence without explanation.

From Slate • Jun. 11, 2026

For evolutionary science, they show why we must check our closest relatives before assuming a specific, or unique, cultural explanation.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

But none of the children could remember how to say “armoire,” and they finally just shrugged and patted their arms in explanation.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood

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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