What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
elucidate
Example
The professor elucidated the theory with several examples. [elucidated: past tense]
Example
Can you please elucidate your point further? [elucidate: verb]
clarify
Example
Could you clarify what you meant by that statement? [clarify: verb]
Example
The teacher clarified the instructions for the assignment. [clarified: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clarify is more commonly used than elucidate in everyday language. Clarify is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while elucidate is less common and typically used in more formal or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between elucidate and clarify?
Elucidate is typically associated with a more formal tone and is often used in academic or professional contexts. Clarify, on the other hand, can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
