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A1 verb #1,200 most common 12 min read

Explicar

Top 1,200

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips Explicar in 30 Seconds

Explanation Explicar in your Level:

At the A1 beginner level, the verb 'explicar' is introduced as a fundamental tool for basic communication and survival in a Portuguese-speaking environment. Learners at this stage use 'explicar' primarily to express their lack of understanding and to request help. The most common phrases involve asking someone to repeat or clarify something, such as 'Pode explicar, por favor?' (Can you explain, please?) or 'Eu não entendo, pode explicar?' (I don't understand, can you explain?). At this level, the grammar is kept simple, focusing on the present tense ('eu explico', 'você explica') and the immediate future using the auxiliary verb 'ir' ('eu vou explicar'). Learners are taught to recognize the word when teachers use it in the classroom, such as when the teacher says 'Vou explicar a lição' (I am going to explain the lesson). The focus is entirely on practical, immediate needs: asking for directions to be explained, asking how a simple machine works, or requesting clarification on a menu item. Vocabulary is limited, so 'explicar' serves as a bridge to acquire more words. If an A1 learner doesn't know the word for something, they might point and say 'Pode explicar o que é isso?' (Can you explain what this is?). The pronunciation is straightforward, though learners are encouraged to practice the hard 'c' sound. Overall, at the A1 level, 'explicar' is a lifeline, a vital vocabulary word that empowers beginners to navigate confusing situations, ask for assistance, and actively participate in their own learning process by demanding clarity when faced with the overwhelming input of a new language.

As learners progress to the A2 level, their use of 'explicar' becomes more varied and structurally complex. They move beyond simple requests for help and begin to use the verb to describe past events and future intentions. The simple past tense (pretérito perfeito) is introduced, and learners must master the orthographic change in the first person singular: 'eu expliquei' (I explained). This is a crucial milestone, as it allows learners to recount conversations, such as 'Eu expliquei o problema para o médico' (I explained the problem to the doctor). At this stage, the concept of direct and indirect objects becomes more prominent. Learners practice using prepositions correctly, forming sentences like 'Ele explicou a regra para mim' (He explained the rule to me). They also start using 'explicar que' to report statements, a fundamental skill for narrative building: 'Ela explicou que estava cansada' (She explained that she was tired). In daily life scenarios, A2 learners use 'explicar' to handle routine tasks, such as explaining a simple issue to a landlord, explaining a minor delay to a friend, or explaining basic preferences in a store. The vocabulary surrounding the verb expands to include words like 'motivo' (reason), 'situação' (situation), and 'problema' (problem). While their explanations might still be somewhat basic and rely on simple vocabulary, the ability to use 'explicar' in different tenses and with proper object pronouns marks a significant step toward conversational independence and the ability to manage everyday social interactions in Portuguese.

At the B1 intermediate level, the usage of 'explicar' expands significantly into the realm of expressing opinions, justifying actions, and engaging in more detailed conversations. Learners are now expected to explain not just simple facts, but processes, reasons, and personal feelings. The structure 'explicar como' (to explain how) becomes heavily utilized as learners describe how to cook a recipe, how to play a game, or how to navigate a city. They begin to use the imperfect tense to describe ongoing explanations in the past: 'Ele estava explicando a matéria quando o sinal tocou' (He was explaining the subject when the bell rang). Furthermore, B1 learners start encountering and using the subjunctive mood with 'explicar', particularly in formal or hypothetical contexts, though still at a basic level. They learn to use reflexive pronouns more naturally, understanding the nuance of 'explicar-se' (to explain oneself) when someone needs to justify a mistake or a misunderstanding. In professional or academic settings appropriate for this level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input and can explain their own viewpoints on familiar topics. They might say, 'Deixe-me explicar o meu ponto de vista' (Let me explain my point of view). The vocabulary becomes richer, incorporating synonyms like 'esclarecer' and 'justificar' to avoid repetition. The ability to explain effectively at the B1 level demonstrates a solid grasp of Portuguese syntax and the capacity to maintain a sustained, meaningful conversation, bridging the gap between basic survival language and true conversational fluency.

Reaching the B2 upper-intermediate level means that a learner can use 'explicar' with a high degree of fluency, accuracy, and nuance. At this stage, explanations are no longer just about basic facts or simple processes; they involve abstract concepts, complex arguments, and detailed narratives. A B2 learner can effortlessly switch between tenses, using the pluperfect or conditional to express nuanced temporal relationships: 'Se você tivesse me perguntado, eu teria explicado' (If you had asked me, I would have explained). The use of the subjunctive becomes more natural, especially in subordinate clauses triggered by expressions of doubt or necessity related to explaining. In professional environments, B2 speakers can confidently lead a meeting, explaining intricate project details, market trends, or technical specifications without strain. They can understand complex lectures and explanations given by native speakers, even when delivered at a fast pace or with regional accents. The passive voice is also mastered at this level, allowing for formal constructions like 'Foi explicado que as regras mudaram' (It was explained that the rules changed). Furthermore, B2 learners are adept at using discourse markers to structure their explanations logically, using words like 'primeiramente' (firstly), 'além disso' (furthermore), and 'portanto' (therefore) to create cohesive and persuasive arguments. They understand the cultural subtleties of explaining in Portuguese, knowing when to be direct and when to soften an explanation to maintain politeness. At B2, 'explicar' is a tool for debate, persuasion, and deep intellectual engagement.

At the C1 advanced level, the mastery of 'explicar' is characterized by near-native fluency, precision, and an intuitive grasp of register and style. C1 speakers do not merely use the verb; they manipulate it to achieve specific rhetorical effects. They can explain highly specialized, academic, or technical subjects with ease, adapting their vocabulary and tone to suit the audience, whether it is a panel of experts or a group of laypeople. The syntactic structures employed are complex and varied, often involving embedded clauses, idiomatic expressions, and sophisticated grammatical forms like the personal infinitive: 'Para nós explicarmos isso corretamente, precisamos de mais dados' (For us to explain this correctly, we need more data). At this level, learners are highly sensitive to the subtle differences between 'explicar' and its advanced synonyms like 'elucidar', 'explanar', and 'esmiuçar' (to explain in minute detail), choosing the exact word that fits the stylistic requirements of the context. They can effortlessly deconstruct and explain implicit cultural references, humor, and sarcasm in Portuguese. In writing, they produce clear, well-structured, and detailed texts on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors, and cohesive devices. When speaking, their explanations flow naturally, without obvious searching for words, and they can handle hostile questioning or complex counter-arguments by re-explaining their position with clarity and diplomatic tact. At C1, the act of explaining is an art form, demonstrating a profound and flexible command of the Portuguese language.

At the C2 mastery level, the use of 'explicar' and the broader concept of explanation transcend language learning and enter the realm of absolute linguistic and cultural fluency. A C2 speaker possesses a comprehensive, nuanced, and effortless command of the verb in all its possible permutations, historical contexts, and literary usages. They can explain the most abstract philosophical concepts, intricate legal documents, or highly emotional psychological states with the same ease as a highly educated native speaker. Their explanations are not only grammatically flawless but stylistically elegant, employing advanced rhetorical devices, metaphors, and cultural allusions to make their points compelling and memorable. They intuitively understand and utilize regional variations and colloquialisms related to explaining, seamlessly switching between the formal Portuguese of a supreme court argument and the slang-filled explanations of a casual street conversation. At this level, speakers can critically analyze and explain the linguistic structure of Portuguese itself, discussing etymology, syntactic shifts, and phonetic nuances. They can read between the lines of complex texts and explain the unstated implications and subtext. The verb 'explicar' at the C2 level is a tool for absolute intellectual freedom, allowing the speaker to articulate any thought, no matter how complex, subtle, or profound, with perfect clarity, appropriateness, and impact, fully participating in the intellectual and cultural life of the Portuguese-speaking world.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

Explicar in 30 Seconds

Core meaning: To make something clear or understandable.
Grammar: Regular -ar verb. Preterite 'eu' form is 'expliquei'.
Usage: Often takes both a direct object (what) and indirect object (to whom).
Common phrase: 'Deixe-me explicar' (Let me explain).

The Portuguese verb explicar is an absolutely fundamental building block of daily communication, functioning as the primary mechanism through which speakers clarify, elucidate, and make information understandable to others. When you are learning Portuguese, whether you are navigating the bustling streets of São Paulo, attending a university lecture in Lisbon, or simply trying to understand a recipe from a friend in Luanda, you will encounter this word constantly. It derives from the Latin explicare, which literally meant to unfold or unroll, a beautiful metaphor for taking a complex, folded-up concept and laying it out flat so that everyone can see its details clearly. In contemporary usage, explicar is categorized as a regular verb ending in -ar, making its conjugation highly predictable for learners, with the slight orthographic exception in the first-person singular of the preterite perfect, where the 'c' changes to 'qu' to preserve the hard 'k' sound, resulting in 'eu expliquei'.

Core Meaning: To make something clear, to provide reasons for an action, or to teach a concept by breaking it down into understandable parts.

Eu vou explicar a situação para você agora mesmo.

People use this verb in a vast array of contexts. In an educational setting, a teacher will 'explicar a matéria' (explain the subject matter) to the students. In a professional environment, a manager might ask an employee to 'explicar o relatório' (explain the report). In personal relationships, when there is a misunderstanding, one might say 'deixe-me explicar' (let me explain) to resolve the conflict.

Interpersonal Usage: Used frequently to resolve disputes, clarify intentions, and ensure mutual understanding between friends, family members, or colleagues.

Você pode me explicar por que chegou atrasado?

Furthermore, the verb is often used reflexively or in the passive voice. For instance, 'isso não se explica' means 'that cannot be explained' or 'that is inexplicable'. The act of explaining is deeply tied to human cognition and social interaction. When we explain, we bridge the gap between the known and the unknown. In Portuguese culture, which often values interpersonal connection and clear communication, taking the time to explain oneself thoroughly is seen as a sign of respect and engagement.

Cultural Nuance: Brazilians and Portuguese people often use lengthy explanations as a way of showing care and ensuring the listener feels included and respected.

O professor tentou explicar a teoria de forma simples.

It is also crucial to understand the syntactic environment of this verb. It is typically a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object (the thing being explained) and often an indirect object (the person to whom it is being explained). For example, in the sentence 'Eu explico a regra aos alunos' (I explain the rule to the students), 'a regra' is the direct object and 'aos alunos' is the indirect object.

Ela vai explicar o motivo da sua ausência.

Nós precisamos explicar as regras do jogo antes de começar.

Mastering the use of explicar will dramatically improve your ability to navigate complex conversations, ask for help, and express your own thoughts clearly in Portuguese. It is a high-frequency word that appears in virtually every domain of the language, from casual chats to formal academic discourse, making it an essential vocabulary item for any serious learner.

Using the verb explicar correctly in sentences requires an understanding of its transitivity and the prepositions it commonly pairs with. As a bitransitive verb, it frequently requires both a direct object (what is being explained) and an indirect object (to whom it is being explained). The structure is generally 'explicar [algo] a [alguém]' or, very commonly in Brazilian Portuguese, 'explicar [algo] para [alguém]'.

Direct Object Usage: The direct object is the concept, rule, or situation that needs clarification. It answers the question 'what are you explaining?'.

O guia vai explicar a história do monumento.

In this example, 'a história do monumento' is the direct object. When adding the person receiving the explanation, the preposition 'a' or 'para' is introduced. In formal Portuguese and in Portugal, 'a' is preferred, often contracting with definite articles (ao, à, aos, às). For example, 'O professor explicou a lição aos alunos'. In everyday Brazilian Portuguese, it is incredibly common to hear 'para', as in 'O professor explicou a lição para os alunos'.

Indirect Object Usage: The indirect object indicates the recipient of the explanation, typically introduced by the prepositions 'a' or 'para'.

Eu tentei explicar o problema para o mecânico.

Another very common sentence structure involves using 'explicar que' followed by a subordinate clause. This is used when the explanation itself is a full statement or fact. For example, 'Ele explicou que o trem estava atrasado' (He explained that the train was late). This structure is vital for reported speech and narrative storytelling.

A médica precisou explicar que o tratamento seria longo.

Using 'Explicar como': When explaining a process or method, 'explicar como' (to explain how) is the standard phrasing, often followed by an infinitive or a conjugated verb.

Você pode me explicar como funciona este aplicativo?

You will also encounter the reflexive form, 'explicar-se'. This means to explain oneself, usually to justify one's actions or behavior. 'Ele teve que se explicar para o chefe' (He had to explain himself to the boss). This reflexive usage carries a slight connotation of defensiveness or accountability.

Depois da confusão, ela tentou se explicar.

Understanding these various syntactic frames—direct objects, indirect objects, subordinate clauses with 'que', process descriptions with 'como', and reflexive uses—will give you complete mastery over how to deploy this essential verb in any conversational or written context in Portuguese.

The verb explicar is ubiquitous in the Portuguese-speaking world, permeating almost every layer of society and daily life. Because the act of clarification is so central to human interaction, you will hear this word in an incredibly diverse range of settings. One of the most prominent environments is, unsurprisingly, the educational sector. From primary schools to universities, the classroom is a domain where 'explicar' reigns supreme. Teachers are constantly explaining concepts, and students are frequently asking them to explain things again.

Educational Contexts: In schools and universities, this verb is used to describe the primary action of the educator transferring knowledge to the student.

O professor de matemática vai explicar a equação novamente.

Beyond the classroom, the workplace is another major arena for this word. In business meetings, training sessions, and everyday office communications, professionals must explain strategies, software usage, project goals, and financial reports. When a new employee joins a company, someone must 'explicar as regras da empresa' (explain the company rules).

Professional Environments: Used during onboarding, presentations, and team meetings to ensure alignment and understanding of corporate objectives.

O gerente pediu para eu explicar os resultados do trimestre.

You will also hear 'explicar' constantly in the media and news broadcasting. Journalists and experts are frequently invited on television or radio to explain complex political situations, economic shifts, or scientific discoveries to the general public. Phrases like 'os especialistas explicam que...' (experts explain that...) are standard journalistic boilerplate.

Media and Journalism: Used to introduce expert analysis or to break down complex news stories for the audience.

O telejornal chamou um médico para explicar a nova vacina.

In everyday social and domestic life, the word is indispensable. Parents explain the ways of the world to their children. Friends explain the plots of movies they just watched. Partners explain their feelings during deep conversations. It is a word that facilitates human connection by removing confusion.

Deixa eu te explicar como fazer esse bolo maravilhoso.

Finally, in legal and law enforcement contexts, 'explicar' takes on a more serious tone. Suspects are asked to explain their whereabouts, and lawyers explain legal rights. The versatility of this word across such varied domains—from the intimacy of a home to the formality of a courtroom—highlights its status as a core vocabulary item that any Portuguese learner must master early on.

O advogado teve que explicar os termos do contrato.

While 'explicar' is a relatively straightforward regular verb, English speakers learning Portuguese frequently stumble over a few specific grammatical and syntactic hurdles. The most prevalent mistake involves the prepositions used to introduce the person receiving the explanation. In English, we say 'explain something to someone'. In Portuguese, learners often directly translate this and get confused between using 'a' and 'para', or worse, they omit the preposition entirely, leading to ungrammatical sentences like 'Eu explico ele a situação' instead of the correct 'Eu explico a situação a ele' or 'Eu explico a situação para ele'.

Preposition Errors: Failing to use 'a' or 'para' before the indirect object is a classic beginner mistake. You must explain something TO someone.

Incorreto: Eu vou explicar você isso. Correto: Eu vou explicar isso para você.

Another significant area of difficulty is the orthographic change in the simple past tense (pretérito perfeito). Because 'explicar' ends in '-car', maintaining the hard 'k' sound in the first-person singular requires changing the 'c' to 'qu'. Many learners mistakenly write 'eu explicei', which would be pronounced with a soft 's' sound, instead of the correct 'eu expliquei'.

Spelling in the Past Tense: Always remember the c to qu shift in the 'eu' form of the pretérito perfeito to preserve the phonetic integrity of the root word.

Ontem, eu expliquei toda a verdade para ela.

Learners also sometimes confuse 'explicar' with 'ensinar' (to teach). While they are related, they are not perfectly synonymous. You 'ensinar' a skill or a subject over time (like teaching English or teaching someone to swim), but you 'explicar' a specific concept, rule, or reason in a given moment. Using 'explicar' when you mean 'teach a language' sounds unnatural.

Explicar vs. Ensinar: Use explicar for clarifying a specific point or reason. Use ensinar for the broader act of teaching a skill or discipline.

Ele me ensina português, e hoje vai explicar os verbos.

Finally, pronoun placement can be tricky. In Portugal, enclisis is common ('Vou explicar-lhe'), whereas in Brazil, proclisis is preferred in spoken language ('Vou lhe explicar' or more commonly 'Vou explicar para ele'). Mixing these up won't prevent understanding, but it marks you as a non-native speaker. Mastering these subtle distinctions and avoiding these common pitfalls will make your Portuguese sound much more natural, fluent, and precise.

Por favor, tente explicar isso de uma maneira mais simples.

Eu não consegui explicar o que aconteceu ontem à noite.

While 'explicar' is the most common and versatile verb for making things clear, the Portuguese language boasts a rich vocabulary of synonyms and related terms that can add nuance, formality, or specific shades of meaning to your communication. Knowing these alternatives allows you to elevate your language skills from basic to advanced. One of the most direct synonyms is 'esclarecer', which literally means to make clear (from 'claro'). It is often used when there is confusion, doubt, or a misunderstanding that needs to be resolved.

Esclarecer: To clarify or clear up. Best used when addressing doubts, rumors, or complex situations that have caused confusion.

O diretor convocou a reunião para esclarecer os boatos, em vez de apenas explicar a nova política.

Another highly formal alternative is 'elucidar'. This word is typically reserved for academic, legal, or highly intellectual contexts. It carries the connotation of shedding light on a profound mystery or a highly complex theoretical problem. You wouldn't use 'elucidar' to explain how to use a microwave, but a scientist might 'elucidar' the mechanisms of a disease.

Elucidar: To elucidate or illuminate. A formal, academic term used for solving mysteries or explaining deep, complex theories.

O detetive conseguiu elucidar o crime após analisar todas as provas.

When the explanation involves defending an action or providing a reason to avoid blame, the verb 'justificar' (to justify) is the appropriate choice. If you arrive late to work, you might 'explicar' that the traffic was bad, which serves to 'justificar' your tardiness.

Justificar: To justify or give a valid reason for an action, often used defensively or to validate a decision.

Ele tentou justificar seu erro, mas ninguém acreditou na sua desculpa.

For visual or practical explanations, 'demonstrar' (to demonstrate) is an excellent alternative. It implies showing how something works rather than just talking about it. A chef might 'demonstrar' how to chop onions, which is a physical form of explaining.

A vendedora vai demonstrar como usar o novo aspirador de pó.

Finally, 'detalhar' (to detail) is used when the explanation requires going into fine specifics. If someone gives a brief summary and you need more information, you might ask them to 'detalhar' the plan. Understanding these subtle differences allows you to express yourself with precision, choosing the exact word that fits the context, whether you are clarifying a doubt, defending a choice, or showing a process.

O arquiteto precisou detalhar o projeto para que os construtores entendessem.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"O relator procedeu a explicar as minúcias do projeto de lei aos parlamentares."

Neutral

"O professor explicou a matéria para os alunos."

Informal

"Peraí, deixa eu te explicar essa parada direito."

Child friendly

"A mamãe vai explicar como o passarinho voa."

Slang

"Manda a real, explica qual é o esquema."

Fun Fact

The English word 'explicit' comes from the exact same Latin root (explicatus). When something is explicit, it has been fully 'unfolded' so that nothing is hidden. Conversely, 'implicit' means folded in (implicare), meaning the meaning is hidden inside and not fully stated.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /iʃ.pliˈkaɾ/

US /is.pliˈka(ʁ)/

ex-pli-CAR (The stress falls on the last syllable, as it is an infinitive verb ending in -ar).

Rhymes With

aplicar complicar multiplicar implicar replicar suplicar ficar brincar piscar riscar

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'x' as 'ks' (eks-pli-car). In this word, the 'x' sounds like an 's' (Brazil) or 'sh' (Portugal).
Stressing the middle syllable (ex-PLI-car) instead of the final syllable.
Forgetting the spelling change in the past tense and pronouncing 'expliquei' as 'explicei' (with a soft c).
Over-pronouncing the final 'r' in Brazilian Portuguese, where it is often very soft or silent in casual speech.
Mispronouncing the 'lh' sound in related words, though not in the verb itself, learners struggle with the flow.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize due to its similarity to the English 'explain' and Spanish 'explicar'.

Writing 3/5

Generally easy, but the spelling change in the past tense (expliquei) and subjunctive (explique) trips up beginners.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to pronounce, though mastering the prepositions that follow it takes practice.

Listening 2/5

Usually spoken clearly, but in rapid speech, the 'ex' can blend into the preceding words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

falar (to speak) entender (to understand) saber (to know) professor (teacher) por que (why)

Learn Next

esclarecer (to clarify) justificar (to justify) significar (to mean) mostrar (to show) ensinar (to teach)

Advanced

elucidar (to elucidate) explanar (to expound) esmiuçar (to scrutinize/explain in detail) destrinchar (to untangle/explain piece by piece) arrazoar (to reason/argue)

Grammar to Know

Verbs ending in -car change 'c' to 'qu' in the 1st person singular of the Pretérito Perfeito.

Eu explicar -> Eu expliquei (Not explicei).

Verbs ending in -car change 'c' to 'qu' in all forms of the Present Subjunctive.

Que eu explique, que você explique, que nós expliquemos.

Bitransitive verbs take both a direct object (without preposition) and an indirect object (with preposition 'a' or 'para').

Explicar [a regra] para [o aluno].

Using 'que' as a conjunction to introduce a subordinate noun clause after verbs of communication.

Ele explicou que (that) o carro quebrou.

Reflexive pronouns used for justification.

Ele teve que se explicar (explain himself).

Examples by Level

Eu vou explicar a lição.

I am going to explain the lesson.

Uses the auxiliary verb 'ir' (vou) + infinitive 'explicar' for immediate future.

Pode explicar, por favor?

Can you explain, please?

A polite request using 'poder' in the third person singular.

O professor explica bem.

The teacher explains well.

Present tense, third person singular 'explica'.

Eu não sei explicar.

I don't know how to explain.

Negative sentence with the verb 'saber' + infinitive.

Ela explica a regra.

She explains the rule.

Simple present tense with a direct object 'a regra'.

Você pode me explicar?

Can you explain it to me?

Use of the object pronoun 'me' before the infinitive.

Nós vamos explicar tudo.

We are going to explain everything.

First person plural future construction.

Ele não explica nada.

He doesn't explain anything.

Double negative 'não... nada' common in Portuguese.

Eu expliquei o problema para ele.

I explained the problem to him.

Pretérito perfeito (simple past). Note the spelling change: c -> qu in 'expliquei'.

Ela explicou que estava doente.

She explained that she was sick.

Using 'explicar que' to introduce a subordinate clause in reported speech.

Você entendeu o que eu expliquei?

Did you understand what I explained?

Past tense used in a relative clause 'o que eu expliquei'.

Eles explicaram como chegar lá.

They explained how to get there.

Using 'explicar como' followed by an infinitive.

O guia explicou a história da cidade.

The guide explained the history of the city.

Third person singular past tense 'explicou'.

Eu preciso explicar uma coisa.

I need to explain something.

Modal verb 'precisar' + infinitive 'explicar'.

Nós explicamos a situação ao gerente.

We explained the situation to the manager.

First person plural past tense. Note the preposition 'a' + article 'o' = 'ao'.

Por que você não explicou antes?

Why didn't you explain earlier?

Question in the past tense with an adverb of time.

Se você não entender, eu posso explicar de novo.

If you don't understand, I can explain again.

Conditional sentence structure using 'se' + future subjunctive 'entender'.

Ele estava explicando a matéria quando a luz acabou.

He was explaining the subject when the power went out.

Past continuous (estava explicando) interrupted by simple past (acabou).

É difícil explicar o que eu sinto por você.

It is hard to explain what I feel for you.

Infinitive used as the subject of the adjective 'difícil'.

A testemunha explicou detalhadamente como o acidente aconteceu.

The witness explained in detail how the accident happened.

Use of the adverb 'detalhadamente' modifying the verb.

Eu me expliquei para evitar um mal-entendido.

I explained myself to avoid a misunderstanding.

Reflexive use 'me expliquei' meaning to justify one's actions.

Eles pediram que eu explicasse o projeto.

They asked me to explain the project.

Imperfect subjunctive 'explicasse' triggered by the verb 'pedir que'.

O manual explica passo a passo a montagem do móvel.

The manual explains step by step the assembly of the furniture.

Use of the adverbial phrase 'passo a passo'.

Ela sempre explica as coisas com muita paciência.

She always explains things with a lot of patience.

Present tense with an adverb of frequency 'sempre' and a prepositional phrase.

Foi explicado que as novas regras entrarão em vigor amanhã.

It was explained that the new rules will come into effect tomorrow.

Passive voice construction 'Foi explicado que'.

Caso haja dúvidas, o palestrante explicará o conceito no final.

In case there are doubts, the speaker will explain the concept at the end.

Future tense 'explicará' following a conditional clause with the present subjunctive 'haja'.

Eu teria explicado a verdade se você tivesse me dado a chance.

I would have explained the truth if you had given me the chance.

Compound conditional 'teria explicado' paired with the pluperfect subjunctive 'tivesse dado'.

O artigo científico explica as causas subjacentes do fenômeno.

The scientific article explains the underlying causes of the phenomenon.

Formal vocabulary 'causas subjacentes' used as the direct object.

Não há como explicar a complexidade dessa teoria em cinco minutos.

There is no way to explain the complexity of this theory in five minutes.

Impersonal construction 'Não há como' + infinitive.

Para explicarmos isso adequadamente, precisaremos de mais dados.

For us to explain this adequately, we will need more data.

Personal infinitive 'explicarmos' showing agreement with 'nós'.

Ele se recusa a explicar os motivos de sua demissão.

He refuses to explain the reasons for his resignation.

Verb 'recusar-se a' followed by the infinitive.

A professora exigiu que os alunos explicassem suas respostas.

The teacher demanded that the students explain their answers.

Imperfect subjunctive 'explicassem' triggered by the verb of demand 'exigir'.

A teoria da relatividade é frequentemente explicada através de analogias simplistas.

The theory of relativity is frequently explained through simplistic analogies.

Passive voice with an adverb 'frequentemente' and a complex prepositional phrase.

O diplomata tentou explicar as nuances do tratado de paz à imprensa.

The diplomat tried to explain the nuances of the peace treaty to the press.

Advanced vocabulary 'nuances' and formal preposition 'à' (a + a).

Embora ele tenha explicado a situação, a ambiguidade permaneceu.

Although he explained the situation, the ambiguity remained.

Concessive clause with 'embora' triggering the present perfect subjunctive 'tenha explicado'.

Cabe ao governo explicar o déficit orçamentário à população.

It is up to the government to explain the budget deficit to the population.

Impersonal verb 'caber' meaning 'to be someone's responsibility'.

Ao explicar suas motivações, ele acabou revelando mais do que pretendia.

Upon explaining his motivations, he ended up revealing more than he intended.

Preposition 'ao' + infinitive to express an action happening simultaneously.

A complexidade do ecossistema não se explica por uma única variável.

The complexity of the ecosystem cannot be explained by a single variable.

Reflexive passive 'não se explica' used in a formal, academic context.

Explicar o inexplicável é a eterna tarefa da filosofia.

To explain the unexplainable is the eternal task of philosophy.

Infinitive used as a philosophical subject, paired with a nominalized adjective 'o inexplicável'.

Ele discursou por horas sem, contudo, explicar o cerne da questão.

He spoke for hours without, however, explaining the core of the issue.

Preposition 'sem' + infinitive, interrupted by the conjunction 'contudo'.

A exegese do texto visa explicar as intenções recônditas do autor.

The exegesis of the text aims to explain the hidden intentions of the author.

Highly academic vocabulary ('exegese', 'recônditas') paired with the verb.

Por mais que se tente explicar a gênese do universo, restam lacunas epistemológicas.

As much as one tries to explain the genesis of the universe, epistemological gaps remain.

Concessive structure 'Por mais que' + present subjunctive 'tente' + infinitive.

O advogado articulou uma defesa brilhante, explicando minuciosamente cada falha processual.

The lawyer articulated a brilliant defense, meticulously explaining every procedural flaw.

Gerund 'explicando' modified by the advanced adverb 'minuciosamente'.

Não me venha explicar com sofismas o que a lógica elementar já refutou.

Don't come explaining to me with sophisms what elementary logic has already refuted.

Idiomatic imperative structure 'Não me venha explicar' expressing disdain.

A fenomenologia busca explicar a estrutura da consciência a partir da experiência de primeira pessoa.

Phenomenology seeks to explain the structure of consciousness from the first-person experience.

Philosophical discourse using the verb to define a field of study.

Tendo explicado as premissas, o orador passou à dedução lógica.

Having explained the premises, the speaker moved on to the logical deduction.

Perfect gerund 'Tendo explicado' to show a completed action before the main clause.

É imperativo que se expliquem os meandros burocráticos para evitar a paralisação do projeto.

It is imperative that the bureaucratic intricacies be explained to avoid the project's paralysis.

Impersonal expression triggering the present subjunctive 'expliquem' in the passive reflexive.

A sua atitude idiossincrática dificilmente se explica à luz das teorias sociológicas convencionais.

His idiosyncratic attitude is hardly explained in light of conventional sociological theories.

Advanced syntactic structure combining an adverb 'dificilmente', reflexive passive, and a complex prepositional phrase.

Common Collocations

explicar detalhadamente

explicar o motivo

explicar a situação

tentar explicar

difícil de explicar

explicar claramente

explicar passo a passo

explicar a razão

explicar o significado

explicar a diferença

Common Phrases

Deixe-me explicar

— Let me explain. Used to ask for a chance to clarify a situation or defend oneself.

Deixe-me explicar o que realmente aconteceu ontem.

Como explicar...

— How to explain... Used as a filler phrase when searching for the right words to describe something complex.

É um sabor estranho, como explicar... parece uma mistura de doce e salgado.

Isso não se explica

— That cannot be explained. Used for things that are magical, deeply emotional, or completely illogical.

O amor de mãe é algo que não se explica, apenas se sente.

Mal explicado

— Poorly explained or sketchy. Used as an adjective phrase for a situation that seems suspicious or lacks clarity.

Essa história do dinheiro sumido está muito mal explicada.

Explicar tintim por tintim

— To explain in minute detail. An idiomatic expression meaning to explain every single little thing.

Vou te explicar tintim por tintim como funciona o novo sistema.

Não precisa explicar

— No need to explain. Used when the listener already understands or when the situation is obvious.

Eu já vi o estrago no carro, não precisa explicar nada.

Vai ter que se explicar

— Will have to explain oneself. A mild threat or warning that someone will be held accountable for their actions.

Quando o chefe descobrir isso, você vai ter que se explicar.

Para explicar melhor

— To explain better. Used as a transition phrase to rephrase something or give an example.

Para explicar melhor, imagine que a economia é como uma grande engrenagem.

Difícil de explicar

— Hard to explain. Used when a concept or feeling is too complex for simple words.

A saudade que sinto do meu país é muito difícil de explicar.

Explicar o inexplicável

— To explain the unexplainable. A philosophical or poetic phrase about attempting the impossible.

Os cientistas estão sempre tentando explicar o inexplicável.

Often Confused With

Explicar vs Ensinar

'Ensinar' means to teach a skill or subject over time. 'Explicar' means to clarify a specific point or reason in a given moment.

Explicar vs Falar

'Falar' just means to speak or talk. You can 'falar' without making any sense, but to 'explicar' means you are actively trying to make someone understand.

Explicar vs Expressar

'Expressar' means to express feelings or thoughts. 'Explicar' is more logical and focused on transferring comprehension of facts or reasons.

Idioms & Expressions

"Explicar tintim por tintim"

— To explain something in extreme, minute detail, leaving nothing out. Similar to 'explaining step by step' but more emphatic.

A testemunha explicou tintim por tintim como o roubo aconteceu.

Informal

"Desenhar para explicar"

— To draw it out to explain. Used sarcastically when someone is not understanding a simple concept, implying they need a picture.

Você não entendeu ainda? Quer que eu desenhe para explicar?

Informal/Sarcastic

"Explicar o beabá"

— To explain the ABCs. To explain the absolute basics or fundamentals of a subject.

Antes de falarmos de física quântica, tenho que explicar o beabá da mecânica.

Informal

"Dar explicações"

— To give explanations, often in the sense of being held accountable or having to justify one's bad behavior.

O político teve que dar muitas explicações à imprensa após o escândalo.

Neutral

"Explicar o sexo dos anjos"

— To explain the sex of angels. To engage in a pointless, overly theoretical debate that has no practical resolution.

Discutir isso agora é como tentar explicar o sexo dos anjos.

Idiomatic/Literary

"Se explicar com a justiça"

— To explain oneself to the justice system. A euphemism for facing legal consequences or going to court.

Depois da fraude, ele vai ter que se explicar com a justiça.

Formal/Journalistic

"Não me venha com explicações"

— Don't come to me with explanations. A phrase used to shut down excuses when someone is angry.

Você quebrou meu vaso favorito, não me venha com explicações!

Informal/Angry

"Explicar o óbvio"

— To explain the obvious. To waste time stating things that everyone already knows.

O consultor passou uma hora apenas explicando o óbvio para a equipe.

Neutral

"Ficar sem explicação"

— To be left without an explanation. When a mystery remains unsolved or an event has no logical cause.

O desaparecimento do avião até hoje ficou sem explicação.

Neutral

"Explicar por A mais B"

— To explain by A plus B. To explain something with absolute mathematical or logical certainty, proving a point irrefutably.

Eu te explico por A mais B que esse investimento é uma péssima ideia.

Informal

Easily Confused

Explicar vs Ensinar

Both involve transferring knowledge.

Ensinar is broader (to teach a language, to teach how to swim). Explicar is specific (to explain a grammar rule, to explain why you are late).

O professor ensina matemática, e hoje vai explicar as frações.

Explicar vs Esclarecer

They are synonyms.

Esclarecer specifically implies removing doubt or confusion (to clear up). Explicar is the general act of making something understandable.

Vou explicar a regra, e depois esclarecer as dúvidas.

Explicar vs Justificar

Often used in similar defensive contexts.

Justificar is to provide a valid reason or excuse to defend an action. Explicar is simply to state the reason, whether it is valid or not.

Ele tentou explicar o atraso, mas não conseguiu justificar a falta.

Explicar vs Contar

Both involve telling someone something.

Contar is to tell a story or recount an event. Explicar is to break down the 'how' or 'why' of the event.

Ela me contou a história, mas não explicou o final.

Explicar vs Mostrar

Showing can be a form of explaining.

Mostrar is visual (to show). Explicar is usually verbal or logical (to explain).

Vou te mostrar a foto para explicar o que aconteceu.

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] + explicar + [Direct Object].

O professor explica a lição.

[Subject] + explicar + [Direct Object] + para/a + [Indirect Object].

Eu expliquei o problema para o médico.

[Subject] + explicar + que + [Subordinate Clause].

Ela explicou que estava atrasada.

[Subject] + explicar + como + [Infinitive].

Ele explicou como usar a máquina.

[Subject] + se + explicar.

Você vai ter que se explicar para o chefe.

Foi explicado que + [Subordinate Clause].

Foi explicado que as regras mudaram.

Ao explicar + [Direct Object], + [Main Clause].

Ao explicar a teoria, ele cometeu um erro.

Não se explica + [Direct Object] + sem + [Infinitive].

Não se explica a crise sem analisar o passado.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely High. Top 500 most used words in the Portuguese language.

Common Mistakes

Eu vou explicar sobre o projeto. → Eu vou explicar o projeto.
'Explicar' is a direct transitive verb regarding the subject matter. You do not need the preposition 'sobre' (about). You simply explain the thing itself.
Ontem eu explicei a regra. → Ontem eu expliquei a regra.
Because the verb ends in -car, the 'c' must change to 'qu' before an 'e' to maintain the hard /k/ sound. 'Explicei' would be pronounced with an /s/ sound.
Eu explico ele a situação. → Eu explico a situação para ele (or 'a ele').
You must use a preposition ('a' or 'para') to indicate the indirect object (the person receiving the explanation). You cannot put the person directly after the verb without a preposition.
Ele me ensinou por que estava atrasado. → Ele me explicou por que estava atrasado.
Learners often confuse 'ensinar' (to teach) with 'explicar' (to explain). You explain reasons and situations; you teach skills and subjects.
Eu quero que você explicas isso. → Eu quero que você explique isso.
The present subjunctive of 'explicar' requires the -qu- spelling change. The correct form for 'você' is 'explique', not 'explicas' (which is indicative 'tu' with wrong spelling).

Tips

The 'qu' spelling rule

Always remember that verbs ending in -car change to -qu- before the letter 'e'. This happens in 'eu expliquei' and all present subjunctive forms (explique, expliques, expliquemos).

Direct vs Indirect Object

You explain [Direct Object] to [Indirect Object]. Never use a preposition before the thing you are explaining. 'Explicar a regra', not 'Explicar sobre a regra'.

Use 'Deixa eu...'

In informal Brazilian Portuguese, starting a sentence with 'Deixa eu te explicar...' (Let me explain to you...) is the most natural way to jump into a clarification.

The 'x' sound

Don't say 'eks-plicar'. The 'x' here acts like an 's' (in Brazil) or 'sh' (in Portugal). Practice saying 'is-plicar' or 'ish-plicar'.

Avoid 'explicar sobre'

Translating 'explain about' directly to 'explicar sobre' is a common English speaker mistake. Just say 'explicar [the thing]'.

Patience is key

In Portuguese-speaking cultures, giving a long explanation is often a sign of respect. Don't rush people when they are 'explicando'.

Tintim por tintim

Use the phrase 'explicar tintim por tintim' when you want to emphasize that you will explain every single detail. Locals will love it.

Reflexive for justification

If you did something wrong and need to defend yourself, use the reflexive: 'Eu preciso me explicar'.

Fast speech blending

In rapid speech, 'explicar o' sounds like 'is-pli-cow'. Train your ear to catch the verb root even when the ending blends into the next vowel.

Vary your vocabulary

If you find yourself writing 'explicar' too many times in an essay, switch to 'esclarecer', 'demonstrar', or 'justificar'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine taking a complex, folded-up piece of paper. You EX-PLIC (un-fold) it to make it clear. EX-PLIC-AR = to unfold the truth.

Visual Association

Visualize a teacher standing at a chalkboard, literally unfolding a large, complicated map to show the students the clear path. The act of unfolding the map is 'explicar'.

Word Web

explicar professor (teacher) aluno (student) entender (to understand) dúvida (doubt) pergunta (question) resposta (answer) claro (clear)

Challenge

Next time you learn a new Portuguese word, try to 'explicar' its meaning in Portuguese to a friend or to yourself in the mirror, using the phrase 'Isso significa...' (This means...).

Word Origin

The word 'explicar' comes directly from the Latin verb 'explicare'. In Latin, 'ex' means 'out' or 'un-', and 'plicare' means 'to fold'. Therefore, the literal, original meaning was 'to unfold' or 'to unroll'.

Original meaning: To unfold, unroll, or disentangle something physical, like a piece of cloth or a scroll.

Romance languages (derived from Latin). It shares this root with Spanish (explicar), French (expliquer), Italian (spiegare - from a related root), and English (explain - via Old French).

Cultural Context

Be aware that over-explaining a simple concept to an adult can be seen as condescending, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as 'mansplaining' in modern contexts, though the verb 'explicar' itself is entirely neutral.

English speakers often value extreme conciseness ('get to the point'). In Portuguese, a longer, more detailed explanation is often preferred to build rapport.

The famous Brazilian song 'Explica-me' by various artists explores the emotional need for understanding in a relationship. In Brazilian soap operas (novelas), the phrase 'Eu posso explicar!' (I can explain!) is a classic trope used right before a commercial break when a character is caught in a compromising situation. The philosophical works of Portuguese writer Fernando Pessoa often delve into the impossibility of truly explaining the human soul ('inexplicável').

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

In the classroom

Pode explicar de novo?
O professor está explicando.
Não entendi a explicação.
Vou explicar a lição.

Resolving an argument

Deixe-me explicar!
Você não me deixou explicar.
Eu posso explicar tudo.
Isso não justifica nem explica.

At work/Business meetings

Vou explicar o relatório.
Quem pode explicar esses números?
O gerente explicou a nova regra.
Precisamos explicar a estratégia.

Asking for directions or help

Pode me explicar como chegar lá?
Explica como funciona isso?
Alguém me explica o que aconteceu?
Preciso que você me explique.

Doctor's office

O médico explicou o tratamento.
Vou explicar meus sintomas.
Pode explicar o resultado do exame?
A enfermeira explicou a receita.

Conversation Starters

"Você pode me explicar como funciona o sistema de transporte público nesta cidade?"

"Alguém me explica por que o clima está tão louco ultimamente?"

"Como você explicaria a cultura do seu país para um estrangeiro?"

"Qual foi a coisa mais difícil que você já teve que explicar para uma criança?"

"Você prefere que as pessoas expliquem as coisas de forma rápida ou bem detalhada?"

Journal Prompts

Escreva sobre uma vez em que você tentou explicar algo importante, mas a pessoa não entendeu.

Como você explicaria o significado da palavra 'saudade' para alguém que não fala português?

Descreva um conceito complexo do seu trabalho ou estudo e tente explicá-lo de forma simples.

Pense em um mal-entendido recente. Como você se explicou para resolver a situação?

Se você tivesse que explicar a internet para alguém do século 19, o que você diria?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'explicar' is a regular -ar verb. However, it has a minor spelling change in the first person singular of the preterite perfect (eu expliquei) and in the present subjunctive (que eu explique) to maintain the hard 'k' sound. Otherwise, it follows all standard -ar conjugation rules.

Both are correct, but their usage depends on region and formality. In Portugal and in formal Brazilian writing, 'a' is preferred (explicar a ele). In spoken Brazilian Portuguese, 'para' is overwhelmingly more common (explicar para ele).

While you might hear it in very informal speech, it is grammatically incorrect. 'Explicar' is a direct transitive verb for the thing being explained. You explain the thing, not 'about' the thing. Say 'explicar o problema' instead of 'explicar sobre o problema'.

The most common noun form is 'explicação', which means 'explanation'. For example, 'Eu preciso de uma explicação' (I need an explanation).

The word is 'autoexplicativo'. For example, 'O manual é autoexplicativo' (The manual is self-explanatory).

When used reflexively, 'explicar-se' means to explain oneself, usually in the context of justifying one's actions, apologizing, or clearing up a misunderstanding about one's behavior.

Yes. 'Ensinar' means to teach (a subject, a skill). 'Explicar' means to clarify or give reasons. A teacher 'ensina' English, but 'explica' the grammar rules.

In Portugal, it sounds like 'sh' (/iʃ.pliˈkaɾ/). In most of Brazil, it sounds like an 's' (/is.pliˈkaʁ/). It never sounds like 'ks' (eks) in this word.

Yes, frequently. 'Foi explicado que...' (It was explained that...) or 'A regra será explicada amanhã' (The rule will be explained tomorrow).

For academic or formal writing, 'elucidar' (to elucidate) or 'esclarecer' (to clarify) are excellent, sophisticated alternatives to 'explicar'.