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.
"I can't really explain it right now," Wembanyama said of the Spurs collapse after their own epic start.
From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026
Actions by the world’s biggest oil producer—the U.S.—and its biggest importer—China—help explain this unexpected resilience.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026
The BBC has asked West to clarify whether he spoke to An before the alleged action took place on set, to explain his plan or ask for her permission, but has not received a response.
From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026
And that helps to explain why Americans are so resistant to paying more for goods and services and helping, in an unintended way, to keep a cap on inflation.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026
The more he tried to explain, the more questions he had to field.
From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman
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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