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.

As Christine Papas explains in Slate, Bayer’s victory recalls the strategy Big Tobacco companies used to limit accountability for their cancer-causing wares decades ago.

From Slate • Jun. 25, 2026

“First of all, there’s a bigger market,” he explains.

From Barron's • Jun. 25, 2026

This article on MarketWatch explains why I advise my clients to claim Social Security sooner rather than later.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 25, 2026

Inside a glass office, James Orr, a Cambridge theologian who heads the party’s policy team, explains that Reform aims to redefine politics.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 22, 2026

Ramona laughs and explains, “They’re looking to see if they can spot a zunzuncito. You know what that is, don’t you?”

From "Across So Many Seas" by Ruth Behar