spells out
States each letter
Spells out means to explain something explicitly and in detail, leaving nothing to inference: Let me spell out exactly what I expect from you.
The phrase comes from the literal sense of naming letters one by one to form a word, extended to the idea of making something unmistakably clear.
When something spells out a conclusion, it leads there inevitably: The evidence spells out his guilt.
- explainsMakes something understandable
- clarifiesMakes more understandable
- detailsSpecific pieces of information
- articulatesExpresses in words
- enunciatesSpeaks with clear pronunciation
defines · breaks down · step by step · specifies · elaborates · expounds · word by word · alphabet · pronounces · deciphers · unpacks · illuminates · dot the i's · translates · interprets · makes clear · crystal clear · sets forth
spells outimplies
Conveys indirectly
suggests · insinuates · obscures · intimates · withholds
spells outbeats around the bush
Avoids saying something directly
summarizes · hedges · abbreviates · equivocates · mystifies
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