explanatory

adjective

ik-ˈspla-nə-ˌtȯr-ē How to pronounce explanatory (audio)
Definition of explanatorynext
as in interpretative
serving to explain the explanatory section has as its heading "What the New Tax Changes Mean"

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 explanatory Now the castle is in ruins (though with explanatory signage), with hiking paths, a museum, and a 1,200-foot pedestrian suspension bridge that sways 300 feet above the valley floor. — Tribune News Service, Baltimore Sun, 8 June 2026 In this environment, broad allocation provides less explanatory power. — Artem Milinchuk, Forbes.com, 29 May 2026 His work blends data-visualization with explanatory graphics and motion graphics, covering everything from breaking news to politics to sports. — Rick Jervis, USA Today, 13 May 2026 The San Francisco Chronicle received the award for explanatory reporting, which means work that makes a complex topic comprehensible to everyday readers and viewers. — Jennifer Peltz, Twin Cities, 4 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for explanatory
Recent Examples of Synonyms for explanatory
  1. interpretative
  2. interpretive
  3. illustrative
Adjective
  • The nonprofit is dedicated to promoting forest conservation efforts through exhibits, with interpretative trails around the site that venture through lush forest canopies.
    — Molly Allen, Travel + Leisure, 27 June 2026
  • When subtle interpretative differences compound over months and miles, your original vision becomes unrecognizable on the front lines.
    — Peter Ross, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
Definition of interpretative
Adjective
  • Lot is often described in the Qurʾān, and in subsequent interpretive traditions, in the role of condemning the men of Sodom for lusting after men rather than women.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 July 2026
  • Of four interpretive signs at the park, used mostly by Brickell residents to walk their dogs, two have faded to illegibility.
    — Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 30 June 2026
Definition of interpretive
Adjective
  • Those layers, which expand in Heartstopper Forever, are illustrative of Oseman’s approach that appreciates both the evolution inherent to queerness and the coming of age.
    — Abbey White, HollywoodReporter, 16 July 2026
  • Any references to academic studies or surveys are for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted as endorsements.
    — Wes Moss, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026
Definition of illustrative

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Cite this Entry

“Explanatory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/explanatory. Accessed 24 Jul. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of explanatory for Spanish Speakers

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