as in interpretive
serving to explain
an edition of Melville's novel that could use more explanative footnotes about whaling
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for explanative
Adjective
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This includes visitor centers, campgrounds, and interpretive programming.—
Maryam Siddiqi,
Travel + Leisure,
1 Oct. 2025 -
The back-up dancers captured interpretive elements of Carrión’s discography and demonstrated their skill and strength while performing gravity-defying breakdancing numbers and theatrical battle scenes.—
Rosy Alvarez,
Rolling Stone,
6 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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The exercise itself is illustrative of an elevated standard.—
Kansas City Star,
Kansas City Star,
30 Sep. 2025
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While demographers, economists and sociologists agree on the challenges the declining birth rate could bring, some have argued that is also illustrative of societal progress—namely choice.—
Jordan King,
MSNBC Newsweek,
28 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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Hybrid lanterns that meet the aforementioned criteria are indeed out there, waiting to illuminate your next campsite, glamping trip, picnic, late-night reading session, or simply to add a little illuminative flare to that embarrassingly barren bookshelf in time for the next Zoom meeting.—
J.D. Simkins,
Sunset Magazine,
17 Feb. 2022
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Along the way, Robbins spices his story through illuminative moments and mini-biographies.—
OregonLive.com,
OregonLive.com,
14 Oct. 2017
Adjective
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There was no need for explanatory speeches.—
Justin Davidson,
Vulture,
22 Sep. 2025
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The Associated Press receives support from Charles Schwab Foundation for educational and explanatory reporting to improve financial literacy.—
Dave Smith,
Fortune,
17 Sep. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Explanative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/explanative. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.
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