ENGLISH
REFERENCE

explains

v.
A2 Elementary US //ɪksˈpɫeɪnz// UK //ɛksplˈeɪnz// ex·plains

v. to make something clear or easy to understand by giving more details. You use this when you tell someone how something works or why it happened.

v. to make an idea, situation, or problem clear to someone by describing it in more detail or revealing relevant facts. Transitive when followed by a direct object or a 'that' clause.


SIMPLE

The teacher explains the math problem to the students.

CONTEXTUAL

The manual explains how to assemble the furniture step by step so you do not make mistakes.

COMPLEX

The lead scientist explains the methodology of the study to the committee, ensuring that every variable is accounted for before the final vote.

Synonyms
Usage

Often takes the preposition 'to' before the listener (e.g., 'explain to me'). When followed by two objects, the thing explained must be the direct object.

Pitfall

He explained me the ruleHe explained the rule to meExplain does not take an indirect object without the preposition 'to'.

© 2026 English Reference