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.
Until then, Russell had looked for external reasons to explain his difficult start to the season.
From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026
This may explain why her name recognition is perhaps not what it should be in the U.S.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026
And a look at Rossetti’s social media presence helps explain why.
From Slate • Jun. 8, 2026
Her stories seek to explain Canada's evolving relationship with the U.S. and its broader place in the world.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026
“Close enough that my dad can drive me. That’s why I was late getting on the game. I had a lot to explain to him.”
From "Bye Forever, I Guess" by Jodi Meadows
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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