# spell out

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spell-out
Updated: 2026-10-23

## Definition

to explain something in a very clear and detailed way so there is no confusion.

For teachers: to explain something explicitly and in great detail to ensure complete comprehension. Transitive; often used when the speaker feels the listener has failed to grasp a simpler explanation.

## Examples

- You need to spell out the rules for the new employees.
- The contract is quite long, so I asked my lawyer to spell out exactly what I was signing.
- The manifesto fails to spell out the specific fiscal policies required to achieve such ambitious social reforms.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He spelled out to me the plan." but "He spelled out the plan to me." — the direct object should typically follow the phrasal verb before the indirect object phrase starting with 'to'.

## Usage notes

- often used with objects like 'details', 'terms', or 'implications'.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'imply' or 'hint'; 'spell out' is the opposite of being subtle or vague.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.