1
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
2
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
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of explain
Will Smith explains his encounters with both The Notorious B.I.G. and Prince in the hours before their respective deaths.
—
Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 19 Feb. 2025
This afternoon, Manhattan Federal Judge Dale Ho has ordered the Department of Justice to appear to explain their reasons for their surprising motion to suspend the five criminal charges against Mayor Adams.
—New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 19 Feb. 2025
The Huskies are 341st nationally and worst amongst all high-major teams in defensive foul rate, per KenPom, which also explains why their opponents have attempted the third-most free throws of any high-major team (behind only Ohio State and Boston College).
—Cj Moore, The Athletic, 19 Feb. 2025
During a press conference after the announcement, Cooper Manning explained how great the hospital is because his son, Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, needed some treatment in the past.
—Scott Thompson, Fox News, 7 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for explain
Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 19 Feb. 2025
This afternoon, Manhattan Federal Judge Dale Ho has ordered the Department of Justice to appear to explain their reasons for their surprising motion to suspend the five criminal charges against Mayor Adams.
—New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 19 Feb. 2025
The Huskies are 341st nationally and worst amongst all high-major teams in defensive foul rate, per KenPom, which also explains why their opponents have attempted the third-most free throws of any high-major team (behind only Ohio State and Boston College).
—Cj Moore, The Athletic, 19 Feb. 2025
During a press conference after the announcement, Cooper Manning explained how great the hospital is because his son, Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, needed some treatment in the past.
—Scott Thompson, Fox News, 7 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for explain
Recent Examples of Synonyms for explain
Verb
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Meanwhile, the fertility clinic has not been able to clarify what exactly happened to her own embryo—there’s a chance that it was mistakenly implanted in another person as well.—
Elisabeth Sherman,
Parents,
19 Feb. 2025
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Yes, but: A U.S. Department of Homeland Security spokesperson clarified that Homan was referring only to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests.—
Jeremy Duda,
Axios,
18 Feb. 2025
Verb
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Recent Inflation Trends The FOMC had been hoping inflation would trend closer to its 2% annual target to justify further rate cuts.—
Simon Moore,
Forbes,
1 Mar. 2025
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Our expert take The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a standout premium credit card with plenty of luxury perks and statement credits to justify its annual fee.—
Jason Stauffer,
CNBC,
28 Feb. 2025
Verb
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There are numerous examples that scholars and researchers have come up with to help illustrate the DDE.—
Lance Eliot,
Forbes,
26 Feb. 2025
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The meal took guests through four culinary seasons, illustrating the passage of time—an essential element in making great whisky.—
Robb Report Studio,
Robb Report,
26 Feb. 2025
Verb
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The company made efforts to connect directly with communities and local leaders, creating awareness about the importance of rationalizing electricity consumption and the consequences of theft.—
Dianne Plummer,
Forbes,
27 Feb. 2025
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Ricketts rationalized that the money from Bellinger’s contract could be diverted elsewhere.—
Paul Sullivan,
Chicago Tribune,
14 Feb. 2025
Verb
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Our Patriots will take to the streets to peacefully demonstrate.—
Andy Greene,
Rolling Stone,
2 Mar. 2025
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That means making sure the youngster can demonstrate enough self-control that allows the educational process to function.—
Vincent Turley,
Hartford Courant,
2 Mar. 2025
Verb
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Moynihan also said simplifying U.S. bank regulations would be a good idea, echoing comments from other industry executives.—
Saeed Azhar,
USA TODAY,
26 Feb. 2025
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Hub motors do a lot to simplify an EV powertrain, as there's no need for any driveshaft or gearing.—
Ars Technica,
Ars Technica,
25 Feb. 2025
Verb
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My days revolved around interpreting music, conveying emotions and connecting with audiences on a profound level.—
Dr. Jen Donnell,
Forbes,
26 Feb. 2025
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Because based on how it’s played, people can interpret him as either complicit and a Nazi sympathizer, or a sympathetic victim of the creeping new order.—
Chris Willman,
Variety,
26 Feb. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Explain.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/explain. Accessed 5 Mar. 2025.
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