explain

[ɪkˈspleɪn]

explain Definition

• 1. make (an idea, situation, or problem) clear to someone by describing it in more detail or revealing relevant facts or ideas
• 2. give a reason or justification for an action or event

Using explain: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "explain" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Can you explain the rules of the game to me?

• Example

  He tried to explain his absence from work.

• Example

  She explained her reasons for leaving the company.

• Example

  The teacher explained the concept of gravity to the students.

explain Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for explain

• elucidate
• clarify
• interpret
• explicate
• demonstrate

Antonyms for explain

• obfuscate
• confuse

Phrases with explain

• explain away

  try to justify or excuse one's actions or words

  Example

  He tried to explain away his rude behavior, but it was clear he was just being disrespectful.

• explain oneself

  give a satisfactory account of one's actions or behavior

  Example

  He had to explain himself to the police after being caught stealing.

• explain something to someone like they're five

  to explain something in a very simple and easy-to-understand way

  Example

  Can you please explain this math problem to me like I'm five?

Origins of explain

from Latin 'explanare', meaning 'make plain or clear'

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Summary: explain in Brief

To 'explain' [ɪkˈspleɪn] is to make an idea, situation, or problem clear by providing more details or relevant facts. It can also mean to give a reason or justification for an action or event. Examples include 'Can you explain the rules of the game to me?' and 'She explained her reasons for leaving the company.' Phrases include 'explain away,' 'explain oneself,' and 'explain something to someone like they're five.'