explain

The word “explain” means to make something clear or easier to understand. In plain terms, to make something understandable, or to give a reason for something.

“Explain” is pronounced ihk-SPLAYN (/ɪkˈspleɪn/ in IPA).

Here is “explain” used in a sentence: “Can you explain how this machine works?”

Words with a similar meaning to “explain” include absolve, clarify, describe, direct, disclose and illustrate.

The opposite of “explain” — its antonyms — is obscure.

“Explain” is a verb.

The word “explain” comes from Latin. From Latin explanare, "to flatten, make level, make clear," from ex- ("out") + planare ("to flatten") — related to "plain" and "plane.".

“Explain” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

To describe something is to give its details — what it looks like, sounds like, or consists of. To explain goes further, making it understandable by giving reasons, causes, or how it works. You might describe a machine's shape and colour, then explain how it actually runs and why.

Explaining sets something out to make it understood, often for the first time. Clarifying removes confusion from something already said, making a muddy or ambiguous point clearer. You explain a new idea, but you clarify a remark that was misunderstood. Clarifying assumes an earlier attempt that now needs sharpening.

To 'explain yourself' means to give the reasons for your behaviour, especially when it has been questioned or seems wrong. A teacher might ask a pupil to explain themselves after a disruption. It is a request to make one's actions understandable and, often, to justify them.

You might say, 'Let me explain how the booking system works,' or 'She explained why the meeting was moved.' In both cases the aim is to make something — a process or a reason — clear and easier for the listener to understand.