Definition of explain
transitive verb
1a : to make known explain the secret of your successb : to make plain or understandable footnotes that explain the terms
2 : to give the reason for or cause of unable to explain his strange conduct
3 : to show the logical development or relationships of explained the new theory
intransitive verb
: to make something plain or understandable a report that suggests rather than explains
explainer
nounexplain oneself
: to clarify one's statements or the reasons for one's conduct
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Examples of explain in a Sentence
I need a lawyer to explain this contract to me.
The professor explained the poem to the class.
She explained how the machine worked.
I explained to them that I would be available by phone.
Scientists could not explain the strange lights in the sky.
I don't know how to explain the dog's strange behavior.
We asked him to explain his reasons to us.
Can you explain why no one was informed earlier?
That explains why we were so far behind schedule.
Give me a chance to explain.
Origin and Etymology of explain
Middle English explanen, from Latin explanare, literally, to make level, from ex- + planus level, flat — more at floor
First Known Use: 15th century
Synonym Discussion of explain
EXPLAIN Defined for English Language Learners
explain
playDefinition of explain for English Language Learners
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: to make (something) clear or easy to understand
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: to tell, show, or be the reason for or cause of something
EXPLAIN Defined for Kids
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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for explain Spanish Central: Translation of explain Nglish: Translation of explain for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of explain for Arabic speakers
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