Explained: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• Derived from the Latin word 'explanare', which means 'to make flat or level', hinting at bringing clarity.
• The term began to take its modern form around the 14th century, when it started being used more frequently in written discussions.
• The prefix 'ex-' suggests outward, or 'from', while 'planare' refers to smoothing or making even.

Science

• In scientific communication, clear explanations are vital for sharing ideas and findings, ensuring everyone understands the research.
• Cognitive psychologists suggest that a well-structured explanation aids memory retention and understanding in learners.
• The process of explaining is often called 'scaffolding', where teachers build up a student's knowledge step-by-step.

Education

• Effective explanations in the classroom can lead to higher student engagement and improved learning outcomes.
• The use of analogies and examples in explanations can significantly enhance comprehension.
• Great teachers often use storytelling as a method to explain complex concepts, making learning enjoyable.

Cultural Perspectives

• Different cultures have unique ways of explaining concepts; for instance, storytelling is prominent in Indigenous education.
• In some cultures, indirect explanations are valued, relying on context rather than direct statements.
• Language plays a crucial role in how we explain things; multilingual individuals often need to adjust their explanations based on their audience.

Psychology

• Research indicates that when people explain new information to others, they strengthen their own understanding and retention.
• The 'Explanatory Style' principle in psychology examines how individuals interpret events (positive vs. negative), influencing their cognitive processes.
• People often use personal experiences in their explanations to create a deeper connection with the audience.

Positioned at #1,457, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

• ...
• 1454 examples
• 1455 exactly
• 1456 largest
• 1457 explained
• 1458 definition
• 1459 applicable
• 1460 statements
• ...