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explain
[ ik-spleyn ]
verb (used with object)
- to make plain or clear; render understandable or intelligible:
to explain an obscure point.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
- to make known in detail:
to explain how to do something.
- to assign a meaning to; interpret:
How can you explain such a silly remark?
- to make clear the cause or reason of; account for:
I cannot explain his strange behavior.
Synonyms:
verb (used without object)
- to give an explanation.
verb phrase
- to diminish or nullify the significance of by explanation:
He couldn't explain away his absence from home at the time the robbery was committed.
- to dispel (doubts, difficulties, etc.) by explanation:
She explained away the child's fears.
explain
/ ɪˈɪ /
verb
- when tr, may take a clause as object to make (something) comprehensible, esp by giving a clear and detailed account of the relevant structure, operation, surrounding circumstances, etc
- tr to justify or attempt to justify (oneself) by giving reasons for one's actions or words
Derived Forms
- ˈԲ, adjective
- ˈԱ, noun
Other Word Forms
- ·a· adjective
- ·İ ··Բ·ٴǰ [ek, -spl, uh, -ney-ter], noun
- e·Ա adjective
- non·a· adjective
- v·· verb
- e· verb
- e· verb (used with object)
- un·a· adjective
- ܲe·a· adverb
- ܲe·Ա adjective
- ܲe·iԲ adjective
- ɱ-·Ա adjective
Word History and Origins
Word History and Origins
Origin of explain1
Example Sentences
They declined to be quoted directly but explained that they were simply waiting for word from their bosses on what to do next.
Judge Garnett asked prosecutors to write a letter within seven days explaining how Mr Mangione would be ensured access to a separate phone line to make privileged calls with his legal team.
"It's very difficult to explain the pressure unless you've been through it. I thought about suicide all the time: "Is my insurance up to date?
Cutting a client's hair, Kerry explained she could not afford to take on any new apprentices this year and had been forced to reduce the hours of her current 12 apprentices to the minimum.
"We firmly believe our place is here," he explained, encouraging mourners to honour Pope Francis's memory by donating to charity, a gesture he believed would be a more meaningful tribute.
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Related Words
When To Use
are other ways to say explain?
To explain something is to make it plain or clear, or to render it understandable or intelligible. How does explain compare to synonyms elucidate, expound, and interpret? Find out on .
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