noun
explanation
eks-pluh-NAY-shuhn/ˌekspləˈneɪʃn/
A statement that makes something understandable or gives its reason.
The adult's explanation uses drawings to clarify the stages of plant growth.
Etymology
“Flattening out” became “making plain or clear,” and the noun names that act or its result. An explanation is thus a statement or interpretation that makes something understandable.
In context
Binn and Dylan are comforted by their mother's explanation. They realize they shouldn't fear something that cannot harm them.
More examples
- The manual includes a clear explanation of each setting.
- He offers no explanation for his sudden departure.
- Several explanations could account for the missing money.
Forms
explanation · explanations
explain verb — To make something clear or understandable.
explanatory adjective — Intended to make something easier to understand.
Similar words
- clarification
- Clarification clears up confusion in something already stated.
- reason
- A reason identifies a cause without necessarily explaining details.
- rationale
- A rationale explains the reasoning behind a decision or action.