What is explain? Pronunciation and usage in English

explain means . Learn how to pronounce and use explain through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of explain

explainverb

/ɪkˈspleɪn//ɛkˈspleɪn/
Definition & pronunciation of explain

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "explain" in English. It's a common stumbling block! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "ex" - This is pronounced like "eks" (as in "expect"). Think of it as quickly saying "eks."
  • "plain" - This is the tricky part. It's pronounced with a short "i" sound (like in "pin") followed by a "ln" sound.

2. Putting it Together:

The whole word is pronounced: eks-plān

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the sounds:

  • eks: /ɛks/ (The 'e' is a short, open 'e' sound, like in "bed")
  • plān: /plæn/ (The 'a' is a short, open 'a' sound, like in "father")

Tips for Getting it Right:

  • Focus on the 'eks' sound first. Don’t rush it.
  • Don’t pronounce the "l" in "plain." It's a very subtle "n" sound. It's not a full "l" like in "light."
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some ways to hear the pronunciation:
    • Google Search: Type "how to pronounce explain" into Google and click the audio button.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/explain/ (This website has pronunciations by native speakers)
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce explain" on YouTube - you’ll find many videos.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you another similar word to practice?

Usage and examples with the word explain in English

Let's break down how to use the word "explain" effectively in English. It's a very common and useful word, but it can be used in slightly different ways.

1. Basic Meaning: To Make Something Clear

At its core, "explain" means to make something understandable. You're taking something complex and breaking it down into simpler terms.

  • Example: "Can you explain how this machine works?" (You're asking for a clear breakdown.)
  • Example: "I need you to explain the instructions to me again." (You need clarification.)

2. Different Ways to Use "Explain" – With Examples

Here’s a more detailed look at how you can use "explain" in various contexts:

  • To Provide a Reason: This is a very frequent use.

    • Example: "He explained why he was late." (He gave you the reason for his lateness.)
    • Example: “She explained her decision to leave her job.” (She gave you her reasoning.)

  • To Describe Something in Detail:

    • Example: "The teacher explained the concept of photosynthesis." (The teacher gave a thorough description of the process.)
    • Example: "He explained the plot of the movie, including all the twists and turns." (He detailed the story.)

  • To Clarify Something: Often used when someone isn't understanding something.

    • Example: "I don’t understand the rules. Could you explain them to me?" (Asking for clarification on the rules.)
    • Example: “Could you explain that again, please? I missed a part.”

  • To Justify a Decision or Action:

    • Example: “The manager explained his decision to lay off some employees.” (He gave the reasons behind the decision).

  • Formal/Academic Contexts:

    • Example: “The scientist explained the experimental results in detail.” (A formal, detailed account.)

3. Phrases Using "Explain"

  • Explain to someone: (This is a common and versatile phrase)

    • "I need to explain this to my boss."
    • "Please explain it to me slowly."

  • Explain something clearly: Emphasizes clarity.

    • "Can you explain that clearly?"

  • Explain the reasons why...: Highlights the cause.

    • "Explain the reasons why the stock market crashed."

  • Explain away: (Often used with a negative connotation - implying trying to dismiss or avoid something)

    • “He tried to explain away his actions, but no one believed him.” (He was attempting to justify his actions in a way that seemed dishonest.)

4. Synonyms for "Explain" (to give you alternatives)

  • Clarify
  • Describe
  • Elaborate
  • Detail
  • Outline
  • Interpret
  • Make clear

5. Important Tips

  • Be specific: When you ask someone to explain something, be specific about what you need them to explain. Instead of just saying "Explain it," say "Explain the steps involved in the process" or "Explain why you made that choice."
  • Ask for details: After an explanation, you can ask for more details: "Could you explain that part further?" or "Can you give me an example?"
  • Listen actively: Really pay attention to the explanation, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of situation are you thinking of using "explain" in? (e.g., a conversation with a friend, a work email, an essay?)

Synonyms for the word explain

Idioms of the word explain

explain yourself
to give somebody reasons for your behaviour, especially when they are angry or upset because of it
  • I really don't see why I should have to explain myself to you.
to say what you mean in a clear way
  • Could you explain yourself a little more—I didn't understand.

Practice with vocabulary explain

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The technical report aims to _______ the complex engineering process in simple terms for non-experts.
  2. Could you please _______ your decision to implement the new policy without prior consultation?
  3. During the quarterly meeting, the CEO will _______ the company's financial performance over the last three months.
  4. Before the experiment, students must learn to carefully _______ the various components of the apparatus.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The customer service representative needs to _______ the new billing system to users who are unfamiliar with it. a) define b) explain c) simplify d) summarize

  2. The engineer will have to _______ the technical specifications of the new software to the marketing team in layman's terms. a) elaborate b) justify c) explain d) clarify

  3. To ensure all team members understand their roles, the project manager will _______ the new workflow process during the morning meeting. a) demonstrate b) describe c) illustrate d) present

  4. It's vital for the researchers to _______ their methodology and findings clearly in their published paper. a) articulate b) report c) explain d) outline

  5. The architect used 3D models to _______ how the proposed building would integrate with the existing cityscape. a) visualize b) illustrate c) clarify d) depict

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. He gave a thorough account of the incident. (Rewrite using "explain" or a related word form.)
  2. The data suggests a strong correlation, but we need to make it clearer why this is happening. (Rewrite using "explain" or a related word form.)
  3. The consultant will provide additional details about the proposed system upgrade. (Rewrite without using "explain" or a related word form.)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. explain
  2. explain
  3. report
  4. identify

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) explain
  2. c) explain, d) clarify
  3. a) demonstrate
  4. a) articulate, c) explain
  5. b) illustrate, d) depict

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. He thoroughly explained the incident.
  2. The data suggests a strong correlation, but we need to explain why this is happening.
  3. The consultant will elaborate on the proposed system upgrade.

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