explain — to make something clear or easy to understand by describing or giving information about it
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to make something clear or easy to understand by describing or giving information about it
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪkˈspleɪn/
Example Sentences
- My cat can't explain why it knocked over my coffee mug at 3 AM.
- The teacher explained the math problem step by step.
- How do you explain a smartphone to someone from the 1800s?
explain
VERB[/ɪkˈspleɪn/]
to make something clear or easy to understand by describing or giving information about it
The teacher explains the water cycle with a simple sketch on the board.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'explanare' meaning 'to flatten out' or 'make plain', composed of 'ex-' (out) and 'planare' (to make flat or plain). The word entered English via Old French 'expliquer' in the 14th century.
Breakdown
ex- (out) + -plain (from Latin planare, to make plain/flat) = explain
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat can't explain why it knocked over my coffee mug at 3 AM.”
“The teacher explained the math problem step by step.”
“How do you explain a smartphone to someone from the 1800s?”
“She explained her decision to quit the job.”
📚Related Words
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