Translate text 
Translate files Explain
/ɪkˈspleɪn/
Meaning & Definition
verb
To make (something) clear or easy to understand by describing or giving information about it.
The teacher took the time to explain the difficult concepts to the students.
To account for or provide a reason for something.
She tried to explain her decision to move to another city.
To interpret or clarify the meaning of a word or phrase.
Can you explain what this term means in the context of the article?
To give reasons for a person's actions or beliefs.
He felt the need to explain why he voted for that candidate.
To describe the characteristics or elements of something.
The scientist explained the properties of water in her lecture.
Etymology
Middle English: from Latin 'explanare', meaning 'to make plain or clear'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
let me explain:
an invitation to clarify or describe something in detail
explain away:
to try to remove blame or guilt by providing an explanation
as I explained earlier:
referring back to a previous explanation
if you can explain:
a condition that suggests needing clarification before proceeding
Related Words
Slang Meanings
break it down
Can you break it down for me? I didn't get it.
give the lowdown
Can you give me the lowdown on the project?