Explanations: meaning, definitions and examples

📚
Add to dictionary

explanations

 

[ ˌɛkspləˈneɪʃənz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

understanding

Explanations are the reasons or details given to make something clear or easy to understand. They are used to clarify information, provide instructions, or give reasons for a particular event or situation.

Synonyms

clarification, elucidation, interpretation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
explanations

Use whenever providing a broad description or process of making something clear. It can apply to various situations, from simple daily instructions to more complex scientific concepts.

  • Her explanations of the math problems were very helpful
  • The teacher's explanations made it easier for the students to understand the topic
clarification

Best used when making something clear or understandable, especially when there has been misunderstanding or confusion. Often applies to resolving doubts or questions.

  • Could you provide some clarification on the last point? After his clarification, everyone understood the new policy
interpretation

Typically used when explaining the meaning of something, such as a piece of art, literature, or data. It often involves a level of personal perspective or analysis.

  • Her interpretation of the poem was profound
  • The lawyer's interpretation of the law differed from the judge's
elucidation

This term is more formal and often used when someone needs a detailed explanation or uncovering deeper meaning, particularly in academic, literary, or scientific contexts.

  • The professor's elucidation of the theory helped the students grasp the complex concept
  • The book offers an elucidation on Renaissance art techniques

Examples of usage

  • Can you give me an explanation of how the machine works?
  • Her explanation of the theory was concise and easy to understand.
  • I need an explanation for why the project was delayed.
  • The teacher's explanation helped the students understand the concept better.
  • The police asked for an explanation of his whereabouts on the night of the crime.

Translations

Translations of the word "explanations" in other languages:

🇵🇹 explicações

🇮🇳 व्याख्याएँ

🇩🇪 Erklärungen

🇮🇩 penjelasan

🇺🇦 пояснення

🇵🇱 wyjaśnienia

🇯🇵 説明

🇫🇷 explications

🇪🇸 explicaciones

🇹🇷 açıklamalar

🇰🇷 설명

🇸🇦 تفسيرات

🇨🇿 vysvětlení

🇸🇰 vysvetlenia

🇨🇳 解释

🇸🇮 pojasnila

🇮🇸 útskýringar

🇰🇿 түсініктемелер

🇬🇪 განმარტებები

🇦🇿 izahlar

🇲🇽 explicaciones

Etymology

The word 'explanations' originated from the Latin word 'explanatio', which means 'a making clear'. Over time, the term evolved to its current usage in the English language. The concept of providing explanations has been a fundamental aspect of communication and learning throughout human history, enabling individuals to convey information effectively and facilitate understanding.

See also: explainable, explained, explainer, explanative, explanatory, inexplicable, inexplicably, unexplainable, unexplainableness, unexplainably, unexplained.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,327 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.