Synonyms of explanation

explanation

noun

ˌek-splə-ˈnā-shən 

1

as in interpretation

a statement that makes something clear

an explanation of photosynthesis that most museum visitors will be able to understand

Synonyms & Similar Words

• interpretation
• illustration
• clarification
• explication
• translation
• analysis
• elucidation
• construction
• definition
• exegesis
• exposition
• reasoning
• illumination
• demonstration
• road map
• comment
• restatement
• commentary
• justification
• paraphrase
• rationale
• meaning
• annotation
• decoding
• gloss
• enlightenment
• deciphering
• rationalization
• edification
• warning
• caveat
• enactment
• epexegesis
• disentanglement
• unscrambling
• caution

2

as in reason

a statement given to explain a belief or act

when questioned by authorities, the students were at a loss for an explanation for their senseless vandalism

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reason
• argument
• apology
• accounting
• justification
• rationale
• case
• excuse
• account
• defense
• appeal
• plea
• vindication
• alibi
• apologia
• rationalization
• pretext
• pretense
• guise

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of explanation

Less than a half hour later, all of these dancers disappeared without much explanation. — Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 6 Aug. 2026

Also in that notebook is the apparent good news about Nick Pivetta playing loss toss yesterday, an explanation for some lineup quirks last night and the transaction that created room for Ray on the roster. — Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Aug. 2026

Some of those explanations may be straightforward—at least compared with extraterrestrials. — Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 6 Aug. 2026

Other sources disputed that explanation, however, suggesting Lauder is instead pulling back on his giving as the octogenarian works to secure his legacy and prioritize more notable philanthropic projects. — Alison Durkee, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026