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.

See Examples For:

explains

Here’s a trip through Nolan’s most signature work that explains how he became the biggest director in Hollywood, whose movies have grossed over $6 billion worldwide.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026

He’s been down in the basement doing press calls like this, he explains, undoubtedly a familiar routine after so many years in the limelight.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 14, 2026

"If we dramatically cut CO2 emissions from fossil fuel burning, or reduce deforestation, the projected increase would be lower," Melillo explains.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 14, 2026

"It sits absolutely between The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogies, and books in fact," he explains handily, as it can be difficult to keep up with the ever-expanding Tolkienverse.

From BBC ● Jul. 13, 2026

He explains that I will be taken in a minivan to some school I’ve never heard of.

From "The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman" by Gennifer Choldenko