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.

An MP close to Miliband proffered a more straightforward explanation.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

However, a closer look revealed a different explanation.

From Science Daily • Apr. 22, 2026

To date, no strategy has appeared, and no explanation for the delay.

From Salon • Apr. 22, 2026

The organization, represented by attorney Shannon Liss-Riordan, said thousands of drivers have been terminated with little to no explanation, many of whom had worked as drivers for years and had high ratings.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2026

He realized that with his hand closed around the chalk it might look like a fist in the air protest and not the silent explanation he hoped.

From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste

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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