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

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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 Erin goes over to talk to Jessel, who explains what is going on. — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 9 Sep. 2026 As Katia Schörle, one of the experts featured in the film, explains, wild animals embodied a world that was both magnificent and terrifying. — Roberto Prieto, Variety, 8 Sep. 2026 Garden mum expert QiuXia Chen explains that the differences between potted mums and garden mums relate to their flower size, branching, flowering times, plant habit, and vigor. — Gemma Johnstone, The Spruce, 8 Sep. 2026 Her experience as someone who had studied Chinese but still felt adrift in Taipei mirrored her experience of grief, Kuang explains. — Lizz Schumer, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2026 In a promotional video, an ARC spokesperson explains that many of the company’s sites (there are more than a hundred nationwide) run 24/7. — Francesca Mancino, New Yorker, 8 Sep. 2026 Our guide on how to avoid a malicious SIM swapping scam explains how protections such as a carrier PIN or number-transfer lock can help reduce that risk. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 6 Sep. 2026 As the recall notice explains, yohimbine is an alkaloid from the bark of the yohimbe tree, usually used for erectile dysfunction in prescription medications, not over-the-counter supplements. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 6 Sep. 2026 For example, Schofield explains that Massachusetts has a specific legal process to handle disputes and repairs for partition fences. — Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Sep. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for explains

Verb

But as this example illustrates, interpreting the benchmark scores can be technically complex, presenting a challenge for companies that want to show off the results to the public in a digestible format.

— Emily Forlini, Fortune, 5 Sep. 2026
Bard’s heatmap also illustrates his general reluctance, or inability in Nice’s system, to attack the area.

— Beren Cross, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026

Definition of illustrates

Verb

Patchett rationalizes Mary’s decision by establishing that Nutmeg was old.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 2 Sep. 2026
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

Definition of rationalizes

Verb

Unless Goedert misses significant time or Stowers demonstrates significant improvement, expectations should be modest for Stowers.

— Zach Berman, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026
As Chris, a veteran CIA assassin with terminal cancer whose memory also seems to be going, Malkovich demonstrates a sinister insouciance that at first looks like psycho gloating.

— Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 3 Sep. 2026

Definition of demonstrates

Verb

That level of integration not only simplifies the workflow for beginners but also creates a more efficient and consistent experience for professionals who regularly produce parts.

— Michael Lydick, PC Magazine, 21 Aug. 2026
For an unguided experience, his company’s Rental and Ride package simplifies the logistics of a point-to-point river trip by coordinating the drop-off and downriver pickup.

— Jamie Siebrase, Denver Post, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of simplifies

Verb

This award is given to a feature film which exemplifies the extraordinary power of documentary filmmaking that illuminates important social issues through compelling storytelling.

— Natalie Jamieson, Variety, 4 Sep. 2026
Koopala’s rechargeable, stick-on task light illuminates tricky spots around the home that could use extra light without the hassle of cords or hardwiring.

— Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Aug. 2026