Thesaurus results for EXPLANATION

explanation

noun

ˌek-splə-ˈnā-shən

Definition of explanation

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

Relevance

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

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 explanation While shocking, the Australian Space Agency said there’s a completely rational, albeit cosmic, explanation. — Drew Pittock, USA Today, 8 July 2026 Formula 1’s own explanation notes that the crew ideally gets into position 15 to 20 seconds before the car arrives, with tires, equipment, adjustments and roles already prepared. — Erum Manzoor, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026 Researchers have offered several explanations for why synthetic fertilizers harm soil microbes. — Esther Ndumi Ngumbi, The Conversation, 8 July 2026 The relevant stakeholders appear reluctant to provide a clear explanation of why working routers were bricked when another solution was available. — Scharon Harding, ArsTechnica, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for explanation

Recent Examples of Synonyms for explanation

Noun

And so there’s lots of different interpretations to any lyric within the record.

— Chris Willman, Variety, 13 July 2026
These top-handle bags introduce a new interpretation of modern dressing, one that’s more understated and elegant.

— Emma Bocchi, Glamour, 11 July 2026

Definition of interpretation

Noun

In a flourish of dramatic irony usually reserved for Greek tragedies and Titanic retellings, the guide opens with an illustration in the style of a CPN, proudly proclaiming the genre’s longevity.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 July 2026
Paint to paper, needle to thread—like couture, fashion illustration is a discipline of the hand.

— Laird Borrelli-Persson, Vogue, 13 July 2026

Definition of illustration

Noun

The proceedings were frequently bogged down by arguments over whether certain exhibits could be admitted into evidence and publicly broadcast via a camera in the courtroom.

— Nicki Brown, CNN Money, 11 July 2026
The lawyers will provide their arguments related to the appeal in subsequent court filings.

— Kaitlyn Huamani, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2026

Definition of argument

Noun

On the court ruling, the spokesperson referred me to a company clarification.

— Ingmar Rentzhog, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Justice Department seeking clarification about an apparent discrepancy in its announcement regarding the age of one of the alleged trafficking victims and will update this story if a response is received.

— Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026

Definition of clarification

Noun

Ramos and other tribal leaders applauded that step and this year, Ramos is advancing a bill to issue a similar apology on behalf of the Legislature.

— Andrew Graham July 8, Sacbee.com, 8 July 2026
With apologies to Orwell, the prospect of a painful illness fills me with less dread than a blank page.

— Rose Horowitch, The Atlantic, 8 July 2026

Definition of apology

Noun

By then, the agency had received more than 68,000 comments, according to a tracker posted online by accounting professor Tzachi Zach of Ohio State.

— Business Columnist, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026
However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

— Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 8 July 2026

Definition of accounting

Noun

Plans for a data center in Henderson County are apparently on hold for now after the developer did not provide justification for a request to pull a maximum of nearly 2 billion gallons of water a year from Cedar Creek Lake.

— Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 July 2026
The activity has become its own justification, disconnected from whether any of it actually moves revenue.

— Erhan Kaya, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026

Definition of justification

Browse Nearby Words

explains away

explanation

explanations

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Style

“Explanation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/explanation. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of explanation

noun

Example Sentences

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