explain

verb /ɪkˈspleɪn/

Make clear by describing in detail.

Quick answer

Common synonyms for "explain" include clarify, describe, elucidate, illustrate, interpret, spell out. Choose by context — see groups below.

Synonyms for "explain"

explain —

clarifydescribeelucidateillustrateinterpretspell outdemystify

Antonyms for "explain"

obscuremuddle

Examples in context

  • Could you explain the data shift to the team?
  • She explained her decision in a short memo.
  • The doc explains the migration strategy step by step.
Usage note

For technical writing prefer clarify (remove confusion), illustrate (show with examples), or walk through (step by step).