Synonym Chooser

How does the verb expound contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of expound are elucidate, explain, explicate, and interpret. While all these words mean "to make something clear or understandable," expound implies a careful often elaborate explanation.

expounding a scientific theory

When would elucidate be a good substitute for expound?

The words elucidate and expound are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, elucidate stresses the throwing of light upon as by offering details or motives previously unclear or only implicit.

elucidate an obscure passage

Where would explain be a reasonable alternative to expound?

While in some cases nearly identical to expound, 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 expound?

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

explicate a poem

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

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

interpreting a work of art

Example 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 expound More Getty Images Reid declined to expound upon his point. Matthew Schmidt, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Sep. 2025 This is further expounded by streamers’ varying wants: Apple has infrequently bought in recent festivals opting to create content in-house, while Amazon prefers overseas rights. Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 4 Sep. 2025 The supplemental essays are a critical opportunity for students to share their voice and expound on their candidacy. Christopher Rim, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2025 In 1882, Junius Henri Browne, a writer for Harper’s Magazine, expounded on a highly relatable problem. Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 11 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for expound
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expound
Verb
  • Regardless of whether or not there’s truth to Trump’s remarks about Nigeria, some of Minaj’s fans have expressed disappointment in the hip-hop star for aligning herself with the polarizing politician in any capacity.
    Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 3 Nov. 2025
  • Looking toward the midterms Heading into 2026, many Americans continue to express deep dissatisfaction with their party’s establishment.
    Jeff Harden, The Conversation, 3 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • In March 2025, Chelsea gave PEOPLE an exclusive update on Max's health journey, explaining that their son has had to relearn basic functions and attend physical therapy.
    Emily Blackwood, PEOPLE, 26 Oct. 2025
  • The canal connected increasingly specialized regions in the early US, explains historian Roger Ransom.
    JSTOR Daily, JSTOR Daily, 26 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Airline industry leaders, unions and government officials have voiced concerns about the strain on vital employees like air traffic controllers, who are working without pay and increasingly unable to maintain regular shifts.
    Deputy News Editor, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie has often voiced his trust in Roseman.
    Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 5 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • The former Fox News personality blasted Curtis for clarifying a set of comments regarding the conservative activist's killing on Wednesday's episode of The Megyn Kelly Show.
    Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 30 Oct. 2025
  • Jordan clarifies that his comment about regretting introducing Luca to Megan had nothing to do with Megan and was more about his decision to be on Love Is Blind when his son needs stability.
    Jennifer Zhan, Vulture, 30 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Most analysts who spoke with said that the Senate will be a tougher feat for Democrats than the House, although there is still a lot up in the air, given ongoing and potentially upcoming redistricting plans and rules.
    Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Soeren Stache | Picture Alliance | Getty Images Microsoft is giving employees a way to raise concerns about the uses of its technology after controversy emerged over the company's work in the Middle East.
    Jordan Novet, CNBC, 6 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • The poll is only the latest evidence of the race's competitiveness, which has drawn national attention due to the candidates' high spending and the race's potential to illustrate where voters are leaning a year ahead of the consequential 2026 midterm elections.
    Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 30 Oct. 2025
  • The new menu items will be served in limited-edition packaging that’s illustrated with gingerbread-style Munchkins, which are storybook-style characters of Dunkin' Munchkin donut holes, but are wearing seasonal outfits.
    Amanda Greenwood, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The 2028 Olympics Earlier this year, Archer Aviation became the exclusive air taxi partner for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, a move Goldstein hopes will demonstrate Midnight’s capabilities on a global stage.
    James Bickerton, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Oct. 2025
  • While potentially an intimidating shoe to some consumers, Hosk demonstrated how the statement boots can be styled.
    Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 24 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Expound.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expound. Accessed 7 Nov. 2025.

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