EXPLAIN Synonyms: 50 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'explain' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of explain are elucidate , explicate , expound , and interpret . While all these words mean "to make something clear or understandable," explain implies a making plain or intelligible what is not immediately obvious or entirely known. // explain the rules

Q: In what contexts can 'elucidate' take the place of 'explain'?

While in some cases nearly identical to explain , elucidate stresses the throwing of light upon as by offering details or motives previously unclear or only implicit. // elucidate an obscure passage

Q: When is it sensible to use 'explicate' instead of 'explain'?

The words explicate and explain can be used in similar contexts, but explicate adds the idea of a developed or detailed analysis. // explicate a poem

Q: When is 'expound' a more appropriate choice than 'explain'?

Although the words expound and explain have much in common, expound implies a careful often elaborate explanation. // expounding a scientific theory

Q: How are the words 'interpret' and 'explain' related?

Interpret adds to explain the need for imagination or sympathy or special knowledge in dealing with something. // interpreting a work of art

explain

verb

ik-ˈsplān

Definition of explain next

as in to clarify

to make plain or understandable a pamphlet that explains the medical procedure in language that any layperson can understand

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to justify

to give the reason for or cause of can you explain your very odd behavior at the wedding reception?

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb explain contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of explain are elucidate, explicate, expound, and interpret. While all these words mean "to make something clear or understandable," explain implies a making plain or intelligible what is not immediately obvious or entirely known.

explain the rules

In what contexts can elucidate take the place of explain?

While in some cases nearly identical to explain, elucidate stresses the throwing of light upon as by offering details or motives previously unclear or only implicit.

elucidate an obscure passage

When is it sensible to use explicate instead of explain?

The words explicate and explain can be used in similar contexts, but explicate adds the idea of a developed or detailed analysis.

explicate a poem

When is expound a more appropriate choice than explain?

Although the words expound and explain have much in common, expound implies a careful often elaborate explanation.

expounding a scientific theory

How are the words interpret and explain related?

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

interpreting a work of art

Examples Sentences

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Recent Examples of explain Episodes building competent boards: stewards of the future and leading sustainable finance transformation explain German business practices. —

Jodie Cook, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024 Over a plate of the local delicacy, horse meat dumplings, one local explained how his father had converted him into a supporter, too. —

Lucy Oliva, The Athletic, 14 Dec. 2024 The actor also explained why he was attracted to the role. —

Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 14 Dec. 2024 Pfaff explained that the bank’s transformation revolved around standardizing processes and ensuring data integrity. —

Judith Magyar, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for explain

Recent Examples of Synonyms for explain

Verb

Authorities did not clarify when the Facebook threats were made, but both schools — and the entire Clearview Local School District — were closed on Thursday, Dec. 12, as the sheriff’s office and FBI searched for explosives.

Bailey Richards, People.com, 14 Dec. 2024
This serves as a critical reminder to prepare thoroughly—by asking the right questions, clarifying expectations, and planning strategically—to make the most of their leave while balancing personal and professional priorities.

Christine Michel Carter, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024