28 Synonyms for Explain | Another Word for Explain (With Examples)

You know that moment when someone just doesn’t get what you’re saying, and you try again? That’s when synonyms for “explain” come in handy! Words like “clarify,” “describe,” and “break down” help you share your ideas more clearly.

Today, we’re going to explore 28 fun, best words that all mean explain—each with super easy meanings and examples. Ready to talk it out like a pro? Let’s jump right in and learn how to explain things better!

1. Clarify

Clarify means to make something clearer or easier to understand. When someone is confused, you might try to explain in a simpler way. “Let me clarify what I meant by that message.” It’s a helpful word when things seem a little foggy or unclear. You can clarify your plans, your ideas, or even instructions. It’s all about clearing up confusion so others understand better. Use this word when you want to make sure people really get what you’re saying.

2. Describe

Describe means to explain what something looks like, feels like, or is all about using words. It helps others picture or understand it. “Can you describe the person you saw at the store?” You can describe a place, a person, or a feeling. This word is great when you’re trying to paint a picture with your words. When someone hasn’t seen or experienced something, your description helps them imagine it clearly in their mind.

3. Define

Define means to tell exactly what something means. It’s often used in dictionaries, but we use it every day too. “Can you define the word ‘kindness’ for me?” When you define something, you’re giving its exact meaning or purpose. It helps people understand new or confusing words and ideas. Whether it’s a new vocabulary word or a concept someone doesn’t know, using “define” makes everything more clear and easy to follow.

4. Elaborate

Elaborate means to explain something with more detail. It’s like taking a short idea and making it longer and clearer. “Could you elaborate on your idea a bit more?” This word is helpful when someone gives a short answer and you want to know more. By elaborating, you share extra information that helps others understand better. It’s perfect when someone says, “Tell me more about that.” Think of it as stretching out your thoughts so others can see the full picture.

5. Interpret

Interpret means to explain the meaning of something, especially when it’s hard to understand. “Can you interpret what this dream means?” People use this word with art, music, or even language. It’s about taking something that’s not clear and saying what it really means. Sometimes, we interpret what someone says when their words are confusing. It’s a helpful word for making sense of tricky or deep things that aren’t easy to understand right away.

6. Expound

Expound means to explain something in detail, often in a thoughtful way. “The teacher expounded on the lesson so we could understand better.” It’s like sharing all the little pieces of an idea so people really understand the big picture. This word sounds fancy, but it just means taking time to explain everything clearly. When someone says something important, they might expound on it to make sure everyone knows what they’re trying to say.

7. Illustrate

Illustrate means to explain something by giving an example or using a picture. “Let me illustrate what I mean with a quick story.” When you illustrate an idea, you’re helping people see it better in their minds. You can also draw a picture to illustrate something. It’s useful when someone needs a visual or real-life example to understand a big or tricky idea. Think of it as helping others “see” what you mean.

8. Demonstrate

Demonstrate means to show or explain how something works or how to do something. “Can you demonstrate how to tie this knot?” It’s a word often used with actions. You don’t just talk about it—you show it. This word is great when you want someone to learn by watching. Whether it’s how to cook, fix something, or do a dance move, “demonstrate” means showing and explaining at the same time.

9. Express

Express means to explain what you’re thinking or feeling using words or actions. “She expressed her thanks with a big smile.” This word is often used when talking about feelings, thoughts, or ideas. You can express yourself through speaking, writing, or even drawing. When you want to let others know what’s going on in your heart or mind, this is the word to use. It’s all about letting your thoughts and feelings be seen and heard.

10. Break down

Break down means to explain something step-by-step in a simple way. “Can you break down this big idea so I understand it better?” It’s useful when something feels too hard or too big to understand all at once. Breaking things down helps others follow your thoughts one piece at a time. Teachers often break down math problems so students can solve them. It’s the perfect phrase when someone says, “This is too hard—help me get it!”

11. Justify

Justify means to explain why something is right, fair, or okay. “He tried to justify why he was late to work.” When people don’t agree with something, you might try to justify your actions. It’s a way to explain your reasons and help others understand your side. You can use it in arguments or when people ask, “Why did you do that?” Justifying helps make your choices or ideas clear and reasonable.

12. Disclose

Disclose means to explain or share something that was secret or unknown. “The doctor disclosed the test results to the patient.” This word is used when important information is shared. It doesn’t always mean something bad—just something not known before. It’s often used in business, news, or personal conversations where someone says, “Let me tell you something.” When you disclose something, you’re making sure someone understands something new.

13. Reveal

Reveal means to show or explain something that was hidden or not known before. “The magician revealed how he did the trick.” It’s like lifting a curtain and saying, “Here it is!” When you reveal something, you’re explaining it so others can finally see or understand. This word is often used in exciting moments when a surprise or secret is finally shared. Whether it’s the truth or just a surprise gift, revealing helps others see the full picture.

14. Unpack

Unpack means to explain something by taking it apart or looking at each part. “Let’s unpack this idea one step at a time.” It’s like opening up a box to see what’s inside. When you unpack an idea, you explain every part clearly. This word is great for big topics that have lots of pieces. Teachers, writers, and speakers use it a lot when they want to help others understand something fully. It’s all about going deeper into the meaning.

15. Simplify

Simplify means to make something easier to understand or do. “Let me simplify the steps for you.” When something is too hard or has too many parts, simplifying helps make it clearer. This word is great when you’re helping someone who is struggling to understand. You take away the hard parts and explain it in a way that’s easy and quick. Use “simplify” when you want things to be simple, clear, and less confusing.

16. Outline

Outline means to explain the main parts of something in a simple list or summary. “She outlined the key points of the project.” You don’t give all the details—just the most important ones. This word is helpful when you want to explain something quickly but clearly. You can outline your plans, an idea, or a report. It’s like giving a preview before the full story. People use outlines when organizing their thoughts or sharing the big picture.

17. Detail

Detail means to explain something by giving lots of small parts or facts. “The police officer detailed what happened at the scene.” This word helps people understand every little piece of something. When someone wants to know more than just the basics, you can go into detail. It’s helpful when accuracy and clear facts are important. Use this word when you want to give a full explanation, step-by-step, so nothing is missed.

18. Present

Present means to explain or share something in front of others. “She will present her project to the class tomorrow.” You usually do it by speaking and maybe using pictures or notes. It’s a good word when talking about speeches or schoolwork. When you present, you’re helping others understand your ideas. Whether it’s a story, a plan, or a report, presenting is all about sharing information in a clear, confident way.

19. Translate

Translate means to explain something in a new language or in a simpler way. “Can you translate this French sentence into English?” But it’s not only about languages. You can also translate hard ideas into easy words. This word is useful when someone doesn’t understand the original words or meaning. When you translate, you’re changing something so others can understand it better. It’s perfect for helping people understand ideas they couldn’t before.

20. Account for

Account for means to explain the reason something happened or exists. “Can you account for the missing books?” It’s often used when something seems strange or not right, and someone wants to know why. This phrase helps you explain actions, results, or events. People use it in serious talks, like at work or school. It helps clear up confusion or doubts. Use “account for” when someone asks, “Why did this happen?”

21. Talk through

Talk through means to explain something by discussing it step by step. “Let’s talk through the homework together.” It’s a friendly way of helping someone understand something that seems hard. You can talk through problems, plans, or ideas. This phrase shows that you’re going to take your time and go slowly. It’s often used when helping someone learn something new. It’s a great way to make sure everyone feels clear and calm.

22. Make clear

Make clear means to explain something so there’s no confusion at all. “Let me make it clear—I’m not angry, just tired.” When people don’t get what you’re saying, this phrase helps you explain it better. It’s good when you want others to really understand your thoughts or feelings. It shows you care about being understood. Whether it’s an opinion, a rule, or a plan, this phrase helps others know exactly what you mean.

23. Set forth

Set forth means to explain or share an idea, plan, or rule clearly. “She set forth her plan for the school event.” It sounds a little formal but is great for serious talks or writing. You’re putting your thoughts out for others to see. It’s often used in speeches, essays, or official talks. Use this phrase when you want to explain something with purpose and care. It’s strong and respectful.

24. Lay out

Lay out means to explain something by putting all the pieces in order. “Let me lay out the steps for you.” It’s like putting your thoughts on the table, one at a time. You can lay out a plan, instructions, or ideas. It’s great when someone says, “Can you tell me how this works?” It’s a friendly and simple way to make everything easy to follow.

25. Enlighten

Enlighten means to explain something new that helps someone understand better. “The book enlightened me about space and the planets.” It’s about learning something you didn’t know before. It feels positive and smart. When you enlighten someone, you help them see things in a new way. It’s a great word when explaining something that opens someone’s eyes. It’s like turning on a light in someone’s mind.

26. Convey

Convey means to explain or share an idea or feeling so others understand. “She conveyed her excitement through her smile and voice.” You can use words, actions, or even art to convey something. It’s all about making sure your message gets through. If someone says, “I don’t get what you mean,” try to convey your idea more clearly. It’s helpful when you’re trying to connect with others.

27. Depict

Depict means to explain or show something using pictures or words. “The painting depicts a peaceful countryside scene.” It’s often used in art or storytelling. When you depict something, you’re helping others understand what it looks or feels like. It’s not just explaining—it’s showing with feeling. Writers and artists use it a lot. It’s perfect for helping someone imagine something they haven’t seen.

28. Articulate

Articulate means to explain something clearly using the right words. “He articulated his thoughts very well during the interview.” It shows that you can speak or write clearly and with confidence. When someone asks you to speak up or say more, this word fits. It’s often used to praise people who explain their ideas well. Use “articulate” when someone expresses their thoughts clearly and makes you go, “Oh, I totally get that!”

Final Thoughts

Using different ways to explain makes your talking and writing much better. Whether you’re trying to describe a feeling, break down a tough idea, or share a story, these words help you do it better. Now you’ve got 28 smart, simple ways to say “explain” without repeating yourself. Try using some in your next chat, story, or school project. Learning these makes everything you say easier to understand—and more fun too!