erläutern
Translation
explained, illustrated, clarified
Examples
Sie erläuterte ihre Entscheidung.
She explained her decision.
Der Guide erläuterte die Geschichte des Schlosses.
The guide explained the history of the castle.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) explained sth. She explained her decision.
((to sb.)) ((sth.)) explained sth. to sb. She explained her decision to me.
Similar Words
Synonyms: erklärte, legte dar; Antonyms: verheimlichte, verschleierte
Etymology
From the prefix 'er-' (indicating achievement of an action) + 'läutern' (to clarify), related to 'lauter' (pure, clear). Literally, 'to make clear'.
Memory Tips
This is the simple past tense. Think of making information 'laut' (loud) and clear in the past.