Elaboration: meaning, definitions and examples

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elaboration

 

[ ɪˌlæbəˈreɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in-depth explanation

Elaboration refers to the process of providing more detailed information or explanation about a topic or idea. It involves expanding on the original concept to offer a comprehensive understanding. Elaboration can help clarify complex ideas and enhance the depth of knowledge on a particular subject.

Synonyms

amplification, elucidation, expansion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
elaboration

Elaboration is typically used when someone provides more details or information to enhance or clarify an initial statement or idea.

  • His lecture was good, but it needed more elaboration on certain key points.
  • Can you provide an elaboration of your plan?
expansion

Expansion is appropriate when the goal is to extend the breadth of information or to develop an idea further. It suggests a broadening or adding to the overall content.

  • The report needs an expansion to cover new data.
  • Their business plan called for an expansion of their services.
elucidation

Elucidation is best used when one aims to make something clear or explain it in a way that makes it more understandable. It often has a formal tone.

  • The professor's elucidation on quantum mechanics was brilliant.
  • Could you provide an elucidation of this term?
amplification

Amplification is usually employed when the intent is to increase the amount of information or to add more persuasive or emphatic detail to make a point stronger.

  • The author’s amplification of the topic made the argument more compelling.
  • I appreciate your amplification on this subject.

Examples of usage

  • Can you provide further elaboration on this concept?
  • The speaker offered a detailed elaboration of the project plan.
  • She asked for elaboration on the specific requirements.
Context #2 | Noun

ornate detail

Elaboration can also refer to the addition of intricate or decorative details to something, such as a design or artwork. It involves embellishing or enhancing the appearance of an object with elaborate ornamentation.

Synonyms

decoration, embellishment, ornamentation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
elaboration

This word is best used when providing detailed and complex explanations or expanding on a topic.

  • The teacher's elaboration on the subject helped the students understand better
  • The scientist’s elaboration of his research findings was thorough
embellishment

Often used when discussing the addition of exaggerated details or adornments to make something more attractive or interesting, sometimes with a negative connotation if it implies exaggeration or deceit.

  • The story was interesting, but the author's embellishments made it hard to believe
  • She added embellishments to her dress to make it more unique
ornamentation

This word is appropriate when talking about decorative details added to something, usually in the context of art, architecture, or design.

  • The building's ornamentation included intricate carvings and sculptures
  • The vase's ornamentation made it a beautiful centerpiece
decoration

This word is suitable when referring to items or actions that add appeal, especially in festive or aesthetic contexts.

  • The Christmas tree looked beautiful with all the decorations
  • She used simple decorations to make the room look elegant

Examples of usage

  • The elaborate elaboration of the costume impressed the audience.
  • The artist's use of elaboration in the painting captured attention.

Translations

Translations of the word "elaboration" in other languages:

🇵🇹 elaboração

🇮🇳 विस्तार

🇩🇪 Ausarbeitung

🇮🇩 penjabaran

🇺🇦 розробка

🇵🇱 opracowanie

🇯🇵 詳述 (しょうじゅつ)

🇫🇷 élaboration

🇪🇸 elaboración

🇹🇷 ayrıntılama

🇰🇷 상세 설명

🇸🇦 توضيح

🇨🇿 vypracování

🇸🇰 vypracovanie

🇨🇳 详细说明

🇸🇮 izdelava

🇮🇸 útfærsla

🇰🇿 жасау

🇬🇪 დამუშავება

🇦🇿 hazırlama

🇲🇽 elaboración

Etymology

The word 'elaboration' originates from the Latin word 'elaborare', which means 'to work out' or 'to produce with care'. The term evolved in English to signify the process of adding detail or complexity to something. Over time, 'elaboration' has come to represent both the act of providing detailed explanations and the embellishment of objects with intricate details.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,292, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.