clarifying

1 of 2

adjective

clar·​i·​fy·​ing ˈkler-ə-ˌfī-iŋ 

ˈkla-rə-

1

: making something less confusing or easier to understand : providing clarity

a clarifying question/statement

gave some clarifying information

Here is that rare bird, a clarifying book about an important and muddied subject.

—Robert Heilbroner

… he experienced the rare clarifying moment of discovering one's talent …

—Emma Sandler

2

: removing impurities or particulates

clarifying lotion/shampoo

In the winery, most traditional practices and materials are sanctioned, such as the use of … bentonite clay as a clarifying agent.

—Richard Steven Street

clarifying

2 of 2

present participle of clarify

Examples of clarifying in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Some of the most clarifying conversations about where work is headed come from people who are just entering it. — Lindsey Garito, Forbes.com, 21 May 2026

As the Virgo Moon arrives November 13 to 15, things get even more introspective, but in the best, most clarifying way. — Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 9 Nov. 2025

And that was a clarifying moment for me in my understanding of their relationship. — Max Gao, Variety, 29 Aug. 2025

These compositions have surprising emotional impact and a clarifying depth. — Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 16 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1630, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for clarifying

• applying
• belying
• complying
• decrying
• defying
• denying
• implying
• outlying
• relying
• replying
• supplying
• undying