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View synonyms for

explanation

[ ek-spluh-ney-shuhn ]

noun

  1. the act or process of explaining.

    Synonyms: , , , ,

  2. something that explains; a statement made to clarify something and make it understandable; exposition:

    an explanation of a poem.

  3. a meaning or interpretation:

    to find an explanation for a mystery.

    Synonyms: , ,

  4. a mutual declaration of the meaning of words spoken, actions, motives, etc., with a view to adjusting a misunderstanding or reconciling differences:

    After a long and emotional explanation they were friends again.



explanation

/ ˌɛəˈԱɪʃə /

noun

  1. the act or process of explaining
  2. a statement or occurrence that explains
  3. a clarification of disputed terms or points; reconciliation
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • v·p·ԲtDz noun
  • e··ԲtDz noun
  • e··ԲtDz noun
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Word History and Origins

Origin of explanation1

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English explanacioun, from Latin پō-, stem of پō, from (ܲ) “made understandable” (past participle of “to smooth out, make understandable”) + -ion; explain
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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

If policy rests upon transparently flawed economic reasoning or arbitrary distinctions lacking rational explanation, courts not only have the authority but also the constitutional duty to intervene.

From

Goodwin has never given an explanation for Ms Wood's death, and did not give evidence at trial.

From

But the money stopped flowing this year, without any explanation from the EPA, said Tori Kjer, executive director of the land trust.

From

I was especially moved by his explanation for how rising temperatures hurt society’s poorest families and nations most of all.

From

On the contrary, he clung tightly to his “defense wins championships” explanation for making the deal that sent Doncic to Los Angeles and brought elite defender Anthony Davis to Dallas.

From

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