explains

VERB

make clear; give a reason for

Synonyms

STRONGEST

analyze clarify define demonstrate describe disclose expound illustrate interpret justify point out read resolve reveal solve spell out tell

STRONG

annotate construe decipher diagram elucidate excuse explicate manifest paraphrase rationalize refine render teach translate unfold unravel untangle

WEAK

account for break down bring out clear up get across go into detail make plain put across put in plain English set right throw light upon

Antonyms

STRONGEST

conceal confuse distort hide misrepresent misunderstand question wonder

STRONG

cloud mystify obscure stagnate tangle withhold

WEAK

be vague complicate perplex

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.

The new law supposedly explains how living creatures evolve increasingly complex features without defying thermodynamics.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

The stage name, she explains, is less persona than alter ego - "a very personal rebellion".

From BBC • May 15, 2026

This process gives comets their fuzzy appearance and explains why astronomers often refer to them as "dirty snowballs."

From Science Daily • May 14, 2026

Slate’s Alexis Romero explains the court’s “head-spinning” opinion and how it manages to butcher the legal question at the heart of this case while also cherry-picking history.

From Slate • May 14, 2026

“I asked Momma to stall the trial while I went to get you three,” Zoe explains.

From "The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas