explain
Translation
to explain, to clarify, to describe
Examples
Can you explain the rules?
Can you explain the rules?
He explained why he was late.
He explained why he was late.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) ((to sb.)) to explain (sth.) to (sb.) Can you explain the problem to me?
((why/what/how...)) to explain (why/what/how...) He explained why he was late.
Similar Words
Synonyms: clarify, describe, illustrate; Antonyms: confuse, obscure
Etymology
From Latin 'ex-' (out) + 'planus' (flat, plain). Literally 'to make plain or level'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'ex-' as 'out' and 'plain' as 'simple'. You are making something simple by bringing it 'out' into the open.