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.
Can you just briefly explain what the Justice Department is charging here and why you think the case will fail, and why it’s just so worrying, even if it’s doomed to fail?
From Slate • May 4, 2026
They’re why I started getting mammograms early—around when I was 30, compared to the usual 40—for reasons I’ll explain soon.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026
This points to a strong thermodynamic effect, meaning rising temperatures are intensifying the melting beyond what atmospheric circulation alone would explain.
From Science Daily • May 4, 2026
Issuing more stock, however, would dilute existing shareholders, which may explain the slide in GameStop stock on Monday.
From Barron's • May 4, 2026
He’s watching me, waiting, but I’m not sure how to explain.
From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison
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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