A2noun 2K

Explanation

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˌekspləˈneɪʃn/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˌekspləˈneɪʃn/"]/

Meaning of Explanation

a statement, fact, or situation that tells you why something happened; a reason given for something

In simple words: A statement or description that makes something clear.

Explanation in a sentence

• The teacher gave a clear explanation of the difficult concept.
• Can you provide an explanation for why you were late?
• I didn't understand her explanation, so I asked her to repeat it.
• The explanation in the book helped me solve the math problem.
• His explanation left everyone satisfied with the answers they needed.
• She gave an explanation of the rules before the game started.
• The scientist provided an explanation for the experiment's results.
• I appreciate your explanation, it made things much clearer.

How to use Explanation

Use 'explanation' in neutral contexts. It’s suitable for formal writing, but can also be used in conversation. Avoid it in very casual or slang contexts.

Grammar pattern

give + explanation

Memory hint

Think of 'explain' as 'a plan for understanding'.

Related words

Collocations with Explanation

• convincing
• credible
• good
• have
• give (somebody)
• offer (somebody)
• lie
• emerge
• occur to somebody
• in explanation
• without explanation
• explanation about
• an attempt at explanation
• by way of explanation
• convincing
• credible
• good
• have
• give (somebody)
• offer (somebody)
• lie
• emerge
• occur to somebody
• in explanation
• without explanation
• explanation about
• an attempt at explanation
• by way of explanation

Synonyms for Explanation

• clarification
• description
• interpretation
• elucidation
• account

Opposites of Explanation

• confusion
• mystification

Common mistakes with Explanation

• 'Explanation' is often confused with 'explanation' versus 'explanatory'.
• Sometimes learners forget to use 'an' before 'explanation'.
• Using 'explain' instead of 'explanation' in noun forms.

Frequently asked questions about Explanation

What does Explanation mean?

A statement or description that makes something clear.

What is the definition of Explanation?

a statement, fact, or situation that tells you why something happened; a reason given for something

How do you use Explanation in a sentence?

The teacher gave a clear explanation of the difficult concept.

Can you give another example of Explanation?

Can you provide an explanation for why you were late?

What are synonyms for Explanation?

Common alternatives include clarification, description, interpretation, elucidation, account.

What is the opposite of Explanation?

Opposite meanings include confusion, mystification.

What words go with Explanation?

It commonly pairs with convincing, credible, good, have, give (somebody), offer (somebody), lie, emerge, occur to somebody, in explanation, without explanation, explanation about, an attempt at explanation, by way of explanation, convincing, credible, good, have, give (somebody), offer (somebody), lie, emerge, occur to somebody, in explanation, without explanation, explanation about, an attempt at explanation, by way of explanation.

What are common mistakes when using Explanation?

'Explanation' is often confused with 'explanation' versus 'explanatory'. Sometimes learners forget to use 'an' before 'explanation'. Using 'explain' instead of 'explanation' in noun forms.

How do you pronounce Explanation?

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

When should I use Explanation?

Use 'explanation' in neutral contexts. It’s suitable for formal writing, but can also be used in conversation. Avoid it in very casual or slang contexts.

What CEFR level is Explanation?

"Explanation" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.