explanation

[ek-spluh-ney-shuhn] / ˌɛk spləˈneɪ ʃən /

NOUN

clarification; reason

Synonyms

STRONGEST

account answer cause comment commentary confession definition description evidence example excuse expression information interpretation justification meaning motive note report resolution sense statement story summary

STRONG

annotation breakdown brief demonstration details display elucidation explication exposition gloss history illustration mitigation narration recital rendition showing significance specification tale talking telling vindication writing

Antonyms

STRONGEST

ignorance question quiet silence

STRONG

concealment hiding vagueness

WEAK

complication

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.

Earlier opinion polls also offer a possible explanation for Becerra’s rise.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2026

In the same article, London School of Economics sociologist Kristin Surak described such people as “Armageddon Americans,” a term that requires no explanation.

From Salon • May 31, 2026

"What are we developing these capabilities for? And based on what thinking? Japan will move forward while making a clear explanation to the international community," he said.

From BBC • May 31, 2026

"Our new study begins to provide a mechanistic explanation for a phenomenon widely seen during aging, which is increased aggregation and dysfunction in the processes that make proteins."

From Science Daily • May 29, 2026

“The funeral is this morning,” she says by way of explanation.

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse

Vocabulary lists containing explanation

The Language of Standardized Tests, List 1

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PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)

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The SAT: Language of the Test, List 4

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