Explanations: meaning, definitions and examples
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explanations
[ˌɛkspləˈneɪʃənz ]
Definition
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?
| 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.
|
| clarification |
Best used when making something clear or understandable, especially when there has been misunderstanding or confusion. Often applies to resolving doubts or questions.
|
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'explanare,' which means to 'flatten' or 'make plain.'
- In Old French, the term evolved into 'explanation,' retaining its meaning of making something clear.
- It first appeared in English around the 14th century, emphasizing clarity of ideas and concepts.
Psychology
- Clear explanations can significantly enhance learning by helping people form connections between new and existing knowledge.
- Studies in cognitive psychology show that when information is explained well, it reduces cognitive load, making it easier for the brain to process.
- The clarity of explanations affects understanding more than the amount of information, highlighting the importance of simplicity.
Education
- Effective teaching often relies on clear explanations, which can improve student engagement and retention.
- Different learning styles require tailored explanations; visual learners may benefit from diagrams, while auditory learners prefer verbal cues.
- Interactive explanations, where students ask questions, foster a deeper understanding compared to straightforward lectures.
Communication
- In professional settings, clear explanations are key to reducing misunderstandings and enhancing teamwork.
- The success of public speaking often hinges on the speaker's ability to provide clear and accessible explanations.
- Digital communication platforms emphasize summarized and clear explanations to avoid information overload.
Technology
- In programming, explanations in code comments are crucial for team collaboration, guiding others through complex logic.
- User manuals and help sections in software rely on clear explanations to assist users in navigating features effectively.
- The rise of educational apps highlights the importance of concise explanations to make learning more accessible in a digital age.
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