A1verb1K

Explain

UK /["/ɪkˈspleɪn/","/ɪkˈspleɪnz/","/ɪkˈspleɪnd/","/ɪkˈspleɪnɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪkˈspleɪn/","/ɪkˈspleɪnz/","/ɪkˈspleɪnd/","/ɪkˈspleɪnɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to tell somebody about something in a way that makes it easy to understand

In simple words: To make something clear or easy to understand.

Examples

  • Can you explain how this machine works?
  • She could not explain her sudden change in mood.
  • It is important to explain the rules of the game.
  • He tried to explain his point of view during the discussion.
  • Teachers often explain concepts to help students learn better.

Usage notes

Use 'explain' when you want to clarify or make something easier to understand. It's appropriate in both speaking and writing, but avoid using it in highly formal contexts where more technical terms might be preferred.

Grammar pattern

explain + object

Memory hint

Think of 'explain' as 'ex-plain' – like pulling the plain out of something to show its meaning.

Collocations

  • in detail
  • fully
  • adequately
  • be able to
  • be unable to
  • can
  • about
  • to
  • explain everything
  • go a long way, some way, etc. towards/​toward explaining something
  • in detail
  • fully
  • adequately
  • be able to
  • be unable to
  • can
  • about
  • to
  • explain everything
  • go a long way, some way, etc. towards/​toward explaining something

Synonyms

  • clarify
  • elucidate
  • expound
  • interpret
  • illustrate

Antonyms

  • confuse
  • obscure
  • complicate

Common mistakes

  • Using 'explain' without an object, e.g., 'I will explain' instead of 'I will explain the concept.'
  • Confusing 'explain' with 'describe' – 'explain' is about making something clear, while 'describe' is about detailing.
  • Misusing the tense, e.g., saying 'I explained' when referring to a future action.