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to explain
01
to make something clear and easy to understand by giving more information about it
Transitive: to explain sth
Example
He explained the plot of the movie to his friend who had n't seen it.
I need someone to explain the concept of gravity to me.
02
to provide reasons to make an action or situation seem acceptable
Transitive: to explain an action or situation
Example
The employee tried to explain the delay in project completion, offering reasons related to unforeseen challenges and resource constraints.
The athlete, facing a doping allegation, explained the situation to the sports committee, providing justifications for the presence of the banned substance.
03
to make something understandable by providing clarification or definition
Transitive: to explain a term or concept
Complex Transitive: to explain a term or concept as sth
Example
The instructor explained the term " cognitive dissonance " as the discomfort experienced when holding conflicting beliefs or attitudes.
The dictionary explains the word " equilibrium " as a state of balance or stability, often used in scientific and economic contexts.