C1adjective2K

UK/["/ɪˈlæbərət/"]/US/["/ɪˈlæbərət/"]/

Meaning of Elaborate

very complicated and detailed; carefully prepared and organized

In simple words: To explain something in detail.

Elaborate in a sentence

  • elaborate designs
  • I had prepared a very elaborate meal.
  • an elaborate computer system
  • highly elaborate carvings
  • It all turned out to be an elaborate hoax.
  • The ceiling was tiled in an elaborate pattern.
  • This elaborate deception fooled his family for ages.

How to use Elaborate

Use 'elaborate' when asking for more information or details about a topic. It's appropriate for formal discussions but can also be used informally. Avoid using it in casual conversations where simpler words suffice.

Grammar pattern

elaborate + on object

Memory hint

Think of 'elaborate' as 'a-lot-of-detail-bate' — lots of details!

Related words

Collocations with Elaborate

Synonyms for Elaborate

Opposites of Elaborate

  • simplify
  • condense
  • abridge

Common mistakes with Elaborate

  • Confused with 'elaborate' as a noun instead of a verb.
  • Using it incorrectly by saying 'elaborate on it is' instead of 'elaborate on'.
  • Overusing in informal contexts where simpler language would be better.

Compare Elaborate with Explain, Clarify, Detail, Describe

Elaborate appears in

Elaborate in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Elaborate

What does Elaborate mean?

To explain something in detail.

What is the definition of Elaborate?

very complicated and detailed; carefully prepared and organized

How do you use Elaborate in a sentence?

elaborate designs

Can you give another example of Elaborate?

I had prepared a very elaborate meal.

What are synonyms for Elaborate?

Common alternatives include explain, clarify, expound, detail, describe.

What is the opposite of Elaborate?

Opposite meanings include simplify, condense, abridge.

What words go with Elaborate?

It commonly pairs with be, look, seem, extremely, fairly, very.

What are common mistakes when using Elaborate?

Confused with 'elaborate' as a noun instead of a verb. Using it incorrectly by saying 'elaborate on it is' instead of 'elaborate on'. Overusing in informal contexts where simpler language would be better.

How do you pronounce Elaborate?

US: /["/ɪˈlæbərət/"]/, UK: /["/ɪˈlæbərət/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Elaborate?

Use 'elaborate' when asking for more information or details about a topic. It's appropriate for formal discussions but can also be used informally. Avoid using it in casual conversations where simpler words suffice.

What CEFR level is Elaborate?

"Elaborate" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.