Synonym Chooser

How does the verb elucidate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of elucidate are explain, explicate, expound, and interpret. While all these words mean "to make something clear or understandable," elucidate stresses the throwing of light upon as by offering details or motives previously unclear or only implicit.

elucidate an obscure passage

In what contexts can explain take the place of elucidate?

While the synonyms explain and elucidate are close in meaning, explain implies a making plain or intelligible what is not immediately obvious or entirely known.

explain the rules

When might explicate be a better fit than elucidate?

The meanings of explicate and elucidate largely overlap; however, explicate adds the idea of a developed or detailed analysis.

explicate a poem

When would expound be a good substitute for elucidate?

The words expound and elucidate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, expound implies a careful often elaborate explanation.

expounding a scientific theory

How are the words interpret and explain related as synonyms of elucidate?

Interpret adds to explain the need for imagination or sympathy or special knowledge in dealing with something.

interpreting a work of art

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of elucidate This experimental project leverages BCG's extensive intellectual property and knowledge base, enabling GENE to engage users, answer questions, and elucidate complex concepts by drawing from BCG's vast repository of research and expertise. Craig S. Smith, Forbes, 27 Sep. 2024 The companies did not immediately elucidate the terms for the Flexible Cash Advance program, but did note that applying for the program could take just three minutes and that sellers may be eligible to receive same-day approval for the funds. Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 27 Sep. 2024 And this personal urgency may elucidate Coates’s staggering omission. Daniel Bergner, The Atlantic, 24 Sep. 2024 Trump’s political presence has elucidated mainstream hip-hop’s decay into a cesspool of violent, ignorant, bigoted patriarchy. Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 16 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for elucidate 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elucidate
Verb
  • The largest white droppings belonged to the seagulls — black-headed laughing gulls and white-headed herring gulls — McKenzie explained.
    CNN.com Wire Service, The Mercury News, 27 Dec. 2024
  • Last month, Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, explained his priority is to arrest and remove criminals who pose the greatest danger to Americans, The Center Square reported.
    Bethany Blankley | The Center Square, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 27 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • The 33-year-old also clarified his relationship with Sayed, denying any romantic involvement in a series of candid posts.
    Amber Corrine, VIBE.com, 26 Dec. 2024
  • This misunderstanding can result in inaccurate measurements if the recipe doesn't clarify further with weights or detailed instructions.
    Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 26 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • The potential financial losses revealed in this lawsuit are substantial, illustrated by the tenuous position of key players like Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick, along with the sponsorship of Monster Energy.
    Gord Magill, Newsweek, 21 Dec. 2024
  • The timing and rapid pace of these announcements—particularly in light of Google's competing releases—illustrates the intensifying competition in AI development.
    Ars Technica, Ars Technica, 20 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • Employees looking to make a change are increasingly seeking out companies with cultures that align with their priorities, demonstrating that meaningful work is a critical factor in career decisions today. 6.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes, 1 Jan. 2025
  • Transforming Sales Strategies with Predictive Analytics Sales is another domain where AI has demonstrated transformative potential.
    Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 1 Jan. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Elucidate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elucidate. Accessed 5 Jan. 2025.

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