单词 | explain |
释义 | explainexplain /ɪkˈspleɪn/ ●●● S1 W1 verb 1[transitive] to describe something in a way that makes it clear or easier to understand: Our lawyer carefully explained the process. It’s not that complicated – let me explain.explain something to somebody Could you explain the rules to me again?explain (to somebody) why/how/what etc. The guide explains how to identify edible mushrooms.explain that The doctor explained that my ear problem was related to my sinuses.THESAURUStell – to explain something to someone. Often used instead of explain in everyday spoken English: She told me how to get to the college.show – to explain to someone how to do something, especially by doing something while he or she watches you: Ellen showed me how to use the coffee maker.demonstrate – demonstrate means the same as show but sounds more formal. Used especially to explain something as part of your job: The teacher demonstrated the experiment to the students.go through/run through something informal – to explain something carefully, one part at a time: Mrs. Riddell went through the homework assignment.clarify – to make something easier to understand, by explaining in a different way or adding more details: Reporters asked the president to clarify his earlier statement, so he explained again in more detail.define – to explain the exact meaning of a word or idea: It is difficult to define the word “beauty” – what is it exactly that makes something beautiful?illustrate – to explain something and make it clear by giving examples: The speaker gave an example to illustrate her point.elucidate formal – to explain something clearly. Used especially in writing: Each chapter elucidates some aspect of American life.2[intransitive, transitive] to give a reason for something, or to be a reason for it: Wait! I can explain. How can you explain this sort of behavior?explain why/how/what etc. Let me explain why I don’t believe your story.explain that Marta explained that she had been sick.3[transitive] to be the piece of information that helps someone understand the reason for something: Oh, I see. That explains it.explain why/how/what etc. I’ll explain why I don’t believe your story.4explain yourself a)to tell someone who is angry or upset with you the reasons why you did something: I think you’d better explain yourself. b)to say clearly what you mean: I’m sorry. I guess I didn’t explain myself very well. [Origin: 1500–1600 Latin explanare to make level, unfold, from planus level, flat]explain something ↔ away phrasal verb to make something seem less important, or not your fault, by giving reasons for it: Children will often try to explain away bruises caused by abuse. |
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