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.

“They didn’t give any explanation as to why,” said the lawyer, Leonard Williamson.

From Salon • Jun. 2, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2026

The new study offers a different explanation, combining expertise from immunology, physics, and animal behavior.

From Science Daily • May 31, 2026

To some employees, the executive’s explanation was a semantic shield, a technicality used to protect the Gates brand.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 31, 2026

“Well, I want to keep my explanation for the night of my lecture,” Maggie answered.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock

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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