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.

The second possible explanation for the lower return for older sellers is how the transaction is managed.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 13, 2026

This puzzle could have an encouraging explanation: Productivity, which means workers are producing goods and services more efficiently, has revived at just the right time.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

"People will want an explanation as to what happened - I just dropped the ball," she added.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

Arvizu said a law enforcement officer then forced him to leave the meeting without providing an explanation.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

“An explanation is a great place to start, Elder. Fairness is one of our tenets, is it not?”

From "The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas

Vocabulary lists containing explanation

PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)

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The Language of Standardized Tests, List 1

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The SAT: Language of the Test, List 4

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