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.

The most likely explanation is that the shipment was being loaded or unloaded when an accident caused it to fall into the water.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

Truancy without an explanation can trigger sanctions including fines, community service orders or juvenile supervision measures.

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

This is what the widow should do next, along with an explanation of how spousal and survivor Social Security benefits work.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 5, 2026

There’s also a straightforward financial explanation: In a panic, you sell what you can, not what you want.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

He seemed to accept her explanation and said nothing else about it as they kept walking.

From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny

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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