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.

Researchers believe the explanation may lie in environmental exposure, particularly pesticides used in agriculture.

From Science Daily • Apr. 17, 2026

Spiegel's comments on Wednesday are the first time he has pointed to AI as an explanation for staffing decisions.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

One explanation is the severe physical shortage in oil markets.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

While the cryptic video confirmed the beef, Cooper still didn’t offer any explanation as to what initially caused the turmoil between them.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

That’s the only explanation I’ve got for what I do.

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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