SELF-EXPLANATORY Synonyms: 111 Similar and Opposite Words

self-explanatory

adjective

Definition of self-explanatory

as in obvious

easy to understand without explanation a self-explanatory phrase The chapter titles of the book are self-explanatory.

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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 self-explanatory Most of these tools are self-explanatory, such as delays, but some are a little harder to understand at a glance. — Ruben Circelli, PC Magazine, 23 July 2026 Hair loss is self-explanatory, while dryness results from damage to the outer layer of the cuticle, leading to moisture loss and hair that feels coarse and appears dull. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 8 June 2026 While settings like Normal and Delicates are fairly self-explanatory, the Heavy Duty cycle often leaves people guessing. — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 2 June 2026 The skit was fairly self-explanatory, as Ferrell portrayed Trebek while asking simple questions to struggling celebrities. — Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 17 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-explanatory

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-explanatory

Adjective

While Pentagon funding is the most obvious must for some Republicans, others would push to include measures to address the cost of living, elections, farm aid, and more.

— Burgess Everett, semafor.com, 11 Nov. 2026
Though Pasta was not a traditional Italian restaurant, offering only a couple of appetizers and desserts and pasta dishes, the glut was obvious.

— Connie Ogle, Miami Herald, 10 Nov. 2026

Definition of obvious

Adjective

New York University mathematician Roland Bauerschmidt says the first of these papers is both groundbreaking and comprehensible.

— Joseph Howlett, Scientific American, 8 Oct. 2026
The only problem is that the lyrics aren’t really more comprehensible than actual Katseye jams.

— Bethy Squires, Vulture, 27 Sep. 2026

Definition of comprehensible

Adjective

Advisors and educators must make investment decisions understandable and explain the practical consequences of inaction.

— Sarah Tolson Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Nov. 2026
The answer isn’t to optimize for every possibility, but to make the underlying product information understandable to AI.

— Zohar Gilad, Forbes.com, 12 Nov. 2026

Definition of understandable

Adjective

Nowhere is this misperception more evident than in looking at current electoral politics and domestic and foreign policy.

— Richard E. Vatz, Baltimore Sun, 8 Nov. 2026
Not a whole lot has gone the NC State Wolfpack's way this season, and that was never more evident than after what the Duke Blue Devils did to them on Saturday afternoon in Raleigh.

— Matt Reigle OutKick, FOXNews.com, 7 Nov. 2026

Definition of evident

Adjective

One of the significant developments from Thursday's meeting was the apparent progress toward securing European participation in future negotiations with Russia and Ukraine.

— Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Nov. 2026
Despite the apparent lack of progress, opponents have continued to organize demonstrations against the proposal.

— Aaron Parseghian, CBS News, 13 Nov. 2026

Definition of apparent

Adjective

Model procedures should provide timely notice, straightforward requests, and alternative assignments without academic penalties.

— Ilya Shapiro, Washington Post, 8 Nov. 2026
Putting the whole thing together looks a little bit like a DIY project, but according to the creators, the setup process is quite straightforward.

— Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 7 Nov. 2026

Definition of straightforward

Adjective

Cutforth found a wide-open Riley with a simple swing pass out to the left, giving the junior running back plenty of space to showcase his speed and beat several Rams defensive backs to find the end zone.

— Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 8 Nov. 2026
Made of large, rigid plastic panels, Hardig’s invention was designed to be weather- and insect-proof, simple to clean and maintain, and lightweight and easy to move.

— Sarah Kuta, Popular Science, 8 Nov. 2026

Definition of simple

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“Self-explanatory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-explanatory. Accessed 15 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of self-explanatory

adjective

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