explain

Spell it out

To explain is to make something clear or understandable by describing it in detail or revealing relevant facts: Let me explain how this works, She explained the procedure step by step.

You explain concepts, reasons, or circumstances.

To explain away is to minimize or dismiss with justification: He tried to explain away his absence.

An explanation that accounts for behavior may excuse it: That explains everything.

teach

instruct

Convey knowledge or orders

educateProvide formal instruction
teachImpart skills or knowledge
demonstrateShow or prove something

illustrate · show · lecture · tutor · coach · mentor · guide · brief · orient · school

clarify

Make something understandable

elucidateTo make understood
illuminateSupply with radiance
demystifyExplain something confusing

simplify · articulate · explicate · break down · spell out · shed light · unravel · decode · disambiguate · make clear

analyze

interpret

Extract or convey meaning

analyzeStudy by breaking down
dissectCut open to examine
examineStudy with attention

explore · unpack · deconstruct · contextualize · parse · probe · investigate · break apart · scrutinize · expose

justify

Provide adequate grounds for

rationalizeExplain with invented reasons
account forOffer justification for
defendProtect from harm

excuse · reason · vindicate · warrant · legitimize · grounds · basis · rationale · motivation · answer for

declare

state

Condition or mode

assertDeclare confidently true
maintainKeep in condition
contendStruggle in opposition

claim · affirm · profess · insist · announce · proclaim · express · voice · put forth · set forth

explain

instruct

clarify

interpret

justify

state

explain

Opposites

Phrases

Categories

Family