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.
Soumaya Keynes and Chad P. Bown explain what we should do about it.
From Slate • Jun. 23, 2026
"We were asked, 'What if it were your mother?' They were right to be angry, but we tried to explain we were not at fault," she said.
From BBC • Jun. 22, 2026
Top costumers explain how casual chic, on-trend office wear and quiet luxury are reshaping parental fashion.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 22, 2026
The researchers explain that while shelterbelts create habitat opportunities for some species, they can reduce usable space for birds that nest and feed in open environments.
From Science Daily • Jun. 22, 2026
A screen where I could type and delete and try again until I found the right way to explain.
From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison
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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