Word
explanation
Phoneticsex·pla·na·tion, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌɛkspɫəˈneɪʃən/
UK/ɛksplɐnˈeɪʃən/
Definitions
01a reason or clarification
A2 · Elementary Countable noun
n. the details or reasons someone gives to make something clear or easy to understand.
n. a statement or account that makes something clear; the specific content provided to clarify a situation or concept.
日本語:説明※
“The teacher gave a simple explanation of how the water cycle works.”
“The scientist provided a detailed explanation for the unexpected results, citing atmospheric interference as the primary cause of the data error.”
Pitfall
He gave an explanation about the problem.
He gave an explanation for the problem.
While 'about' is sometimes used, 'explanation for' is the standard preposition when providing a reason for a specific event or issue.
Synonyms
02resolving a disagreement
C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Formal · Literary
n. a conversation where people explain their feelings to end a disagreement.
n. a mutual clarification of disputed points or a reconciliation achieved through discussion.
“After their long argument, they finally sat down for a quiet explanation.”
“The two diplomats sought a private explanation to resolve the misunderstanding before the formal treaty was signed.”
Usage
Often used with the verb 'to demand' or 'to seek'.
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “explanation” in context.
Etymology
From Latin explanatio (“an explanation, interpretation”), from explanare (“explain”); see explain. Morphologically explain + -ation. Displaced native Old English racu.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- A2 · ElementaryOxford
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/explanation
※ 機械で選んだ訳語です。ネイティブスピーカーによる確認はまだです。
「日本語」 data: JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0