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.
And a look at Rossetti’s social media presence helps explain why.
From Slate • Jun. 8, 2026
Sutton Council said it had not welcomed the increase, and called on the EA and the government to "answer the very real concerns of the community and explain this terrible decision".
From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026
“Nothing else would explain why a party born out of satire would receive such a huge following.”
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 7, 2026
States argue that the conditions do not explain what activities are prohibited for entities that receive grants.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026
I tried to explain that it wasn’t me that sent the email, but it was as futile as eating soup with a fork.
From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam
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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