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Meaning & Definition of Explain in English

English

Explain

to make something clear or easy to understand


Pronunciation:

/ɪkˈspleɪn/

Part of Speech:

verb

Detailed Definitions

  • Definition: To make an idea, situation, or problem clear to someone by describing it in more detail.

    Example Sentence: Can you explain how this machine works?

  • Definition: To give a reason for something.

    Example Sentence: He couldn't explain his behavior at the meeting.

  • Definition: To clarify by providing additional details or context.

    Example Sentence: She was asked to explain her rationale for the decision.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English: from Latin 'explanare', meaning 'to make plain or clear'.

Synonyms

clarifyelucidateillustrateexpounddefine

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

Translations

  • Spanish: explicar
  • French: expliquer
  • German: erklären
  • Russian: объяснить

Related Words

  • explanation: a statement or account that makes something clear.
  • explanatory: serving to explain something.
  • explanandum: the phenomenon or event that needs to be explained.
  • explanans: the statement that explains the phenomenon.

Slang Meanings of explain

  • Meaning: break it down

    Example Sentence: Can you break it down for me? I didn't get it.

  • Meaning: give the lowdown

    Example Sentence: Can you give me the lowdown on the project?