EX PLAINS Synonyms: 50 Similar and Opposite Words

explains

verb

present tense third-person singular of explain

as in illustrates

to make plain or understandable a pamphlet that explains the medical procedure in language that any layperson can understand

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in justifies

to give the reason for or cause of can you explain your very odd behavior at the wedding reception?

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 explains After speaking to multiple sources familiar with the process — all of whom remain anonymous to protect relationships — The Athletic explains the lay of the land. — James McNicholas, New York Times, 12 Aug. 2026 Kash explains that turmeric contains a specific type of polyphenol called curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties (and is what gives the spice its bright yellow color). — Marie Bladt, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026 In Good Question, Jeff Wagner explains what's allowed on TV and why politics and profanity are becoming the norm. — Jeff Wagner, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026 That’s hundreds of trucks, Kennedy explains, that often travel from one race, back to home bases in North Carolina, then out to the next race each week. — Scott Soshnick, Sportico.com, 11 Aug. 2026 That’s obviously a lot of money, which likely explains the timing of the sale. — Allison Degrushe, StyleCaster, 11 Aug. 2026 That delay also explains why McConaughey has had other projects that filmed later on, like Paul Greengrass’ Oscar-nominated The Lost Bus, already reach the public. — David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 10 Aug. 2026 The size of the opportunity explains why this matters beyond beauty. — Darko Pavic, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026 In Meridian, that’s a motorcycle In Meridian, officials are confident that Idaho law already has a section that explains the rules for e-motorcycles, the increasingly popular devices that can in some cases get up to 80 mph. — Rose Evans august 4, Idaho Statesman, 4 Aug. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for explains

Verb

This illustrates how far the Eagles have come at the position under Fangio.

— Zach Berman, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026
The story of sardines feeding Japan’s war machine illustrates the convergence of technology, environment and imperialism.

— Pei-Hsu Lin, The Conversation, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of illustrates

Verb

Treating broadband as a social determinant of health clarifies both the urgency and the opportunity.

— Tanya Akim, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026
The proposal, approved during a rare summer special session, would place before voters in November a constitutional amendment that clarifies how Maryland‘s congressional districts are drawn.

— Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 5 Aug. 2026

Definition of clarifies

Verb

But since neo-Brandeisian thought rejects economics as a pseudo-science that rationalizes the desires of capital owners, that objection carries little weight.

— Jonathan Chait, The Atlantic, 26 May 2026
But as another voter rationalizes, the sheer size of the ballot will do more harm than good in the long run.

— Devon Ivie, Vulture, 12 Mar. 2026

Definition of rationalizes

Verb

When the steering-wheel light bar illuminates in green with GM’s Super Cruise, drivers may remove their hands from the steering wheel.

— Michael Wayland, CNBC, 15 Aug. 2026
Through collaboration, information, and perspective, this sometimes complicated and frustrating process can ultimately become the light that illuminates this path.

— Parents, Parents, 7 Aug. 2026