explain

ex-plain · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To make something clear or easy to understand by describing or giving information about it.

  2. 2.

    To give a reason or justification for something.

  3. 3.

    To account for something as a cause or reason.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    explain away — To minimize the importance of something by offering explanations.
  • •
    explain oneself — To justify one's actions or clarify one's meaning.
  • •
    that explains it — Used when something becomes clear.
  • •
    let me explain — Used to introduce a clarification.

Related words

Antonyms: confuse, obscure
See also: clarify, describe, illustrate, teach
Synonyms: clarify, describe, elucidate, interpret

Etymology

From Latin explanare ("to make level, flatten out"), from ex- ("out") + planus ("flat, plain"). The metaphorical sense of "make clear" developed in English.