At the C1 level, an explanation denotes a sophisticated and comprehensive elucidation of complex concepts or phenomena. It goes beyond a simple clarification, delving into intricate details, underlying principles, and nuanced perspectives.
Such an explanation often involves advanced vocabulary and grammatical structures, enabling the speaker or writer to articulate precise relationships between ideas and to present compelling arguments or justifications.
The goal is not merely to make something understandable, but to provide a thorough and insightful interpretation that demonstrates a deep grasp of the subject matter.
§ Explanation vs. Description
While both 'explanation' and 'description' aim to make something clear, they serve slightly different purposes. A description primarily focuses on outward appearances, characteristics, and details, painting a picture with words. It answers 'what is it like?' or 'what does it look like?'. An explanation, on the other hand, delves deeper, providing reasons, causes, or processes. It answers 'how does it work?' or 'why did it happen?'.
The explanation of the scientific phenomenon was very clear.
She gave a detailed description of the suspect to the police.
§ Explanation vs. Reason
While 'explanation' can encompass a reason, 'reason' is often more specific. A reason is a cause or motive for an action, decision, or event. An explanation might include a reason but often provides a more comprehensive account, detailing the circumstances, processes, and implications surrounding an event or idea. A reason might be a simple, direct answer, while an explanation offers a fuller context.
He offered a lengthy explanation for his absence, including details about traffic and a flat tire.
The primary reason for the delay was a technical issue.
- Nuance
- An explanation can often contain several reasons as part of a larger narrative to make something understood.
§ Explanation vs. Clarification
Both 'explanation' and 'clarification' aim to make something clearer, but 'clarification' implies that something was already stated but was unclear or misunderstood. A clarification seeks to remove ambiguity or confusion from something that has already been said or presented. An explanation, however, can be presented for something entirely new or to provide a deeper understanding of a concept, even if it wasn't initially confusing.
Could you provide an explanation of how this new software works?
He asked for a clarification on the last point of the agenda, as he didn't quite understand it.
- Usage Context
- Use 'clarification' when there's an existing statement that needs to be made clearer. Use 'explanation' when introducing new information or elaborating on a topic to enhance understanding.
§ Explanation vs. Elucidation
Elucidation is a more formal and less common synonym for 'explanation,' particularly when referring to making something difficult or obscure clear. It often implies a detailed and careful process of revealing or shedding light on a complex subject. While any explanation makes something clear, an elucidation specifically addresses something that was previously difficult to understand or perceive.
The professor's explanation of quantum physics was surprisingly easy to follow.
The ancient text required considerable elucidation from the scholars.
§ Conclusion
Understanding the nuances between 'explanation' and its similar words allows for more precise and effective communication. While 'explanation' is a broad term for making something clear, consider the specific context and the nature of the information being conveyed. Are you merely stating characteristics (description), giving a motive (reason), clearing up a misunderstanding (clarification), or making something profoundly complex intelligible (elucidation)? Choosing the right word will enhance the clarity and impact of your message.
- Use 'explanation' when providing a general account to make something understandable.
- Use 'description' when detailing the characteristics or appearance of something.
- Use 'reason' when stating the cause or motive behind something.
- Use 'clarification' when addressing a misunderstanding or ambiguity.
- Use 'elucidation' for a formal and detailed explanation of complex or obscure subjects.
Exemplos por nível
Can you give me an explanation for why the sky is blue?
Can you give me a reason for why the sky is blue?
Here, 'explanation' means a reason or an account to make something clear.
He gave a good explanation of the new game rules.
He made the new game rules easy to understand.
In this sentence, 'explanation' refers to making something clear.
I need an explanation for your late arrival.
I need a reason why you are late.
'Explanation' here is used to ask for a justification.
The teacher's explanation helped me understand the difficult math problem.
The teacher made the difficult math problem clear to me.
Here, 'explanation' means making something easy to understand.
She offered a simple explanation for her decision.
She gave a simple reason for her choice.
'Explanation' is used for a reason or justification.
Do you have an explanation for this strange noise?
Do you have a reason for this strange noise?
In this context, 'explanation' asks for an account of a phenomenon.
His explanation of the movie was very helpful.
He made the movie easy to understand.
Here, 'explanation' refers to making something clear.
I asked for an explanation, but he didn't give me one.
I asked for a reason, but he didn't give me one.
'Explanation' is used to request a reason or justification.
The scientist provided a detailed explanation of the complex theory, making it accessible to a wider audience.
A scientist gave a detailed explanation of a complex theory, so more people could understand it.
Here, 'explanation' is followed by a prepositional phrase ('of the complex theory') to specify what is being explained.
Can you give me a clear explanation for why the project failed to meet its deadline?
Can you tell me clearly why the project wasn't finished on time?
'Explanation' is used with a pre-modifying adjective ('clear') and a prepositional phrase ('for why...') indicating the reason.
Her explanation for her absence was rather vague, and the teacher requested more details.
She gave a vague reason for not being there, and the teacher asked for more information.
'Explanation' is followed by 'for her absence' to clarify the subject of the explanation.
The legal team offered a comprehensive explanation of the new regulations to their clients.
The lawyers gave their clients a full explanation of the new rules.
A pre-modifying adjective ('comprehensive') describes the type of 'explanation', followed by 'of the new regulations'.
He struggled to come up with a plausible explanation for the missing documents.
He found it hard to think of a believable reason for the papers being gone.
'Explanation' is modified by the adjective 'plausible' and followed by a prepositional phrase 'for the missing documents'.
The instruction manual offered a step-by-step explanation of how to assemble the furniture.
The manual showed how to put the furniture together step by step.
'Explanation' is preceded by a compound adjective ('step-by-step') and followed by 'of how to assemble...'.
Despite repeated requests, the government has yet to provide a satisfactory explanation for its policies.
Even though people kept asking, the government still hasn't given a good reason for its policies.
Here, 'explanation' is modified by the adjective 'satisfactory' and followed by 'for its policies'.
The philosopher's explanation of free will sparked a lively debate among the students.
The philosopher's talk about free will started a big discussion among students.
Possessive form ('philosopher's explanation') indicates who provided the explanation, followed by 'of free will'.
Família de palavras
Substantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Dicas
Contextual Learning
Always try to learn new words in context. See how 'explanation' is used in sentences.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Explore synonyms like 'clarification,' 'interpretation,' 'reason' and antonyms to broaden your understanding.
Sentence Construction
Practice forming your own sentences using 'explanation' to solidify your comprehension and usage. For example, 'Can you give me an explanation for this delay?'
Word Families
Understand that 'explanation' comes from the verb 'explain.' Knowing word families helps you recognize related words and their meanings. Another example is 'explanatory' (adjective).
Active Recall
Periodically test yourself by trying to recall the definition of 'explanation' without looking it up. This strengthens memory.
Flashcards
Create flashcards with 'explanation' on one side and its definition/example sentences on the other. This is a classic and effective method.
Listen and Read
Pay attention to how 'explanation' is used by native speakers in conversations, podcasts, and written materials. Exposure is key.
Pronunciation Practice
Practice saying 'explanation' aloud to get comfortable with its pronunciation. Break it down into syllables: ex-pla-na-tion.
Visual Aids
If possible, associate 'explanation' with an image or a mental picture that helps you remember its meaning. For example, a teacher writing on a whiteboard.
Use it!
The best way to learn a new word is to actively use it in your own speaking and writing. Don't be afraid to make mistakes!
Teste-se 42 perguntas
Write a short sentence explaining why you like your favorite food.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I like pizza because it is very tasty and cheesy.
Imagine you are late for school. Write one sentence to explain why.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I am late because I woke up very late this morning.
Write a sentence to give a simple explanation of what a 'cat' is.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
A cat is a small animal with fur that people often keep as a pet.
Why was the friend sad?
Read this passage:
My friend was sad yesterday. She didn't want to play. I asked her, 'Why are you sad?' She gave me an explanation. Her cat was sick. I understood why she felt bad.
Why was the friend sad?
The passage states, 'Her cat was sick. I understood why she felt bad.' This is the explanation for her sadness.
The passage states, 'Her cat was sick. I understood why she felt bad.' This is the explanation for her sadness.
What did the student give an explanation for?
Read this passage:
The teacher asked the students to give an explanation for their answers. One student said, 'I think the answer is B because 2 plus 2 equals 4.' This was a good explanation.
What did the student give an explanation for?
The student gave an explanation for 'their answers' and then specifically said, 'I think the answer is B because...' This is an explanation for their choice of answer.
The student gave an explanation for 'their answers' and then specifically said, 'I think the answer is B because...' This is an explanation for their choice of answer.
What was the explanation for going inside?
Read this passage:
It started to rain, so we went inside. My mom gave an explanation for why we had to go inside: 'It's raining, and you will get wet!' She was right, it was a good reason to go inside.
What was the explanation for going inside?
The passage clearly states, 'My mom gave an explanation for why we had to go inside: 'It's raining, and you will get wet!''
The passage clearly states, 'My mom gave an explanation for why we had to go inside: 'It's raining, and you will get wet!''
The correct order forms a question asking for a reason or clarification.
This sentence describes a teacher providing a clear account of the lesson.
The sentence expresses a need for a more comprehensive or understandable reason.
Listen for how the teacher's action helped the students.
The speaker is asking for a reason.
Think about what kind of explanation helps understanding.
Read this aloud:
Can you provide a brief explanation of what happened yesterday?
Focus: explanation
Você disse:
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Read this aloud:
I need a better explanation for your decision.
Focus: better explanation
Você disse:
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Read this aloud:
The scientist gave a fascinating explanation of the universe.
Focus: fascinating explanation
Você disse:
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The scientist provided a clear _______ of the complex phenomenon.
An 'explanation' makes something clear or easy to understand. The scientist clarified a complex phenomenon.
Can you give me an _______ for why you were late to the meeting?
An 'explanation' can be a justification for an action. The speaker is asking for a reason for being late.
Her _______ of the company's financial issues was very thorough and helped us understand the situation better.
A thorough 'explanation' would make the financial issues clear and understandable.
A good explanation often introduces more questions than it answers.
The purpose of an explanation is to make something clear or easy to understand, which implies resolving questions rather than creating more.
If someone asks for an explanation, they are seeking a reason or justification.
The definition of 'explanation' includes a reason or justification given for an action, belief, or phenomenon.
An explanation is always a long and detailed account.
While an explanation can be detailed, it doesn't always have to be long; it simply needs to make something clear or understandable.
The scientist provided a compelling ___ for the unusual experimental results, which ultimately led to a breakthrough in the field.
An 'explanation' is a statement or account that makes something clear or easy to understand. 'Pretext' is a false reason, 'alibi' is an excuse for not being somewhere, and 'rationale' is a set of reasons, often for a course of action. In this context, 'explanation' fits best as it refers to making the results clear.
Despite repeated requests, the politician offered no ___ for his sudden policy reversal, leaving the public to speculate about his motives.
The context implies a need for a reason or justification for the policy reversal. 'Explanation' serves this purpose. 'Vindication' means clearing from blame, 'clarification' makes something clearer but doesn't necessarily offer a reason, and 'apology' is an expression of regret.
The complex philosophical text required a detailed ___ to unravel its intricate arguments and make them accessible to novice readers.
While 'explanation' is a good general fit, 'explication' specifically means the act of analyzing and developing an idea or principle in detail. Given the 'complex philosophical text' and 'intricate arguments', 'explication' is a more precise and C1-level choice.
The legal brief contained a comprehensive ___ of the precedents cited, ensuring the judge had a thorough understanding of the case's legal foundation.
'Elucidation' means to make something clear; to explain. It's a more formal and sophisticated synonym for explanation, fitting the legal context. 'Discourse' is a formal discussion, 'commentary' is an expression of opinion, and 'treatise' is a formal written work.
Her scientific paper provided a concise ___ for the observed biological phenomenon, integrating various data points into a coherent theory.
'Exposition' refers to a comprehensive description and explanation of an idea or theory. It fits well with integrating data into a coherent theory in a scientific paper. 'Hypothesis' is a proposed explanation, 'demonstration' shows how something works, and 'explication' focuses on detailed analysis of an argument.
The witness's ___ of the events leading up to the accident was crucial in helping the jury reconstruct the sequence of incidents.
An 'account' in this context means a report or description of an event or experience. It's a strong and appropriate synonym for explanation when describing a sequence of events. 'Testimony' is evidence given in court, 'articulation' is expressing an idea, and 'interpretation' is explaining the meaning of something.
The CEO's convoluted ____ for the company's declining profits left many stakeholders even more confused.
While 'elucidation', 'justification', and 'clarification' are related, 'explanation' is the most fitting general term for an account meant to make something clear, even if in this case it failed to do so. The other options are more specific types of explanations.
Despite the compelling evidence, the jury remained unconvinced by the defense attorney's elaborate ____ of his client's alibi.
'Explanation' is the most appropriate word to describe a detailed account given to make something understandable, especially in a legal context where facts are presented. 'Exposition' is a formal presentation, 'rationale' is the underlying reason, and 'vindication' is the act of clearing blame.
Her comprehensive ____ of quantum physics, delivered without jargon, made the complex subject accessible to a lay audience.
'Explanation' is the best fit for a statement or account that simplifies something complex for understanding. 'Disquisition' is a long and formal treatise, 'explication' is a detailed analysis of a text, and 'interpretation' is about explaining the meaning of something.
A convoluted explanation is typically easy to understand.
By definition, 'convoluted' means intricate and difficult to follow, making an explanation of this nature hard to understand.
Providing a justification for an action can be considered a type of explanation.
The definition of 'explanation' includes 'a reason or justification given for an action, belief, or phenomenon.'
An explanation always guarantees that something becomes clear and easy to understand.
While the goal of an explanation is to make something clear, it doesn't always succeed. The effectiveness of an explanation can vary.
Write a detailed explanation of the current geopolitical climate in the Middle East, incorporating historical context and predicting potential future developments.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The current geopolitical climate in the Middle East is a complex tapestry woven from historical grievances, shifting alliances, and the interplay of global powers. Understanding this requires delving into the legacy of colonialism, the rise of various ideological movements, and the economic significance of the region's natural resources. For instance, the ongoing rivalry between regional powers, often exacerbated by external interventions, contributes significantly to instability. Future developments could see a further fragmentation of existing states, an escalation of proxy conflicts, or, conversely, a tentative move towards regional cooperation driven by shared economic interests or a common threat perception.
Provide a comprehensive explanation of the theoretical underpinnings of quantum mechanics, ensuring clarity and precision in your language, even for a non-specialist audience.
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Sample answer
Quantum mechanics, at its core, revolutionizes our understanding of reality at the atomic and subatomic levels. Its theoretical underpinnings diverge significantly from classical physics, introducing concepts such as wave-particle duality, where particles can exhibit properties of both waves and particles. Superposition suggests that a quantum system can exist in multiple states simultaneously until measured, a phenomenon exemplified by Schrödinger's cat paradox. Furthermore, entanglement, a bizarre connection between particles regardless of distance, challenges our classical notions of locality. The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle dictates that certain pairs of physical properties, like position and momentum, cannot be simultaneously known with arbitrary precision, fundamentally limiting our ability to predict outcomes in the quantum realm.
Compose a persuasive explanation arguing for the implementation of a universal basic income (UBI) in developed nations, addressing potential criticisms and outlining the societal benefits.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The implementation of a universal basic income (UBI) in developed nations presents a compelling solution to burgeoning economic inequalities and the challenges posed by automation. Proponents argue that UBI, a regular, unconditional payment to all citizens, offers a fundamental safety net, alleviating poverty and fostering economic security. Critics often raise concerns about work disincentives and inflationary pressures. However, a well-designed UBI could stimulate entrepreneurship, improve public health outcomes by reducing stress, and empower individuals to pursue education or caregiving roles. Ultimately, UBI represents a progressive paradigm shift, offering a pathway to a more equitable and resilient society by guaranteeing a baseline standard of living.
According to the passage, what does quantum mechanics provide an 'explanation' for?
Read this passage:
The intricate dance of subatomic particles, governed by the enigmatic principles of quantum mechanics, offers an 'explanation' for phenomena that defy classical understanding. From the dual nature of light to the perplexing entanglement of particles, quantum theory provides a framework for comprehending the universe at its most fundamental level, despite often challenging our intuitive perceptions of reality.
According to the passage, what does quantum mechanics provide an 'explanation' for?
The passage states that quantum mechanics offers an 'explanation' for 'phenomena that defy classical understanding', encompassing both the dual nature of light and particle entanglement.
The passage states that quantum mechanics offers an 'explanation' for 'phenomena that defy classical understanding', encompassing both the dual nature of light and particle entanglement.
What does the passage suggest about the 'explanation' for the decline of ancient civilizations?
Read this passage:
The decline of several ancient civilizations can be attributed to a confluence of factors, each acting as a contributing 'explanation' rather than a singular cause. Environmental degradation, internal political strife, and external invasions often formed a lethal combination, leading to societal collapse. Understanding these complex interactions is crucial for drawing lessons applicable to contemporary global challenges.
What does the passage suggest about the 'explanation' for the decline of ancient civilizations?
The passage explicitly states that the decline was due to 'a confluence of factors, each acting as a contributing 'explanation' rather than a singular cause,' listing environmental degradation, political strife, and invasions.
The passage explicitly states that the decline was due to 'a confluence of factors, each acting as a contributing 'explanation' rather than a singular cause,' listing environmental degradation, political strife, and invasions.
What aspect of the architect's 'explanation' impressed the audience most?
Read this passage:
The architect's 'explanation' of the building's innovative design captivated the audience. He meticulously detailed how sustainable materials were integrated with cutting-edge energy systems, creating a structure that was both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible. His clear articulation of complex engineering principles made the ambitious project readily comprehensible.
What aspect of the architect's 'explanation' impressed the audience most?
The passage states that his 'clear articulation of complex engineering principles made the ambitious project readily comprehensible,' implying this was a key impressive aspect of his explanation.
The passage states that his 'clear articulation of complex engineering principles made the ambitious project readily comprehensible,' implying this was a key impressive aspect of his explanation.
/ 42 correct
Perfect score!
Contextual Learning
Always try to learn new words in context. See how 'explanation' is used in sentences.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Explore synonyms like 'clarification,' 'interpretation,' 'reason' and antonyms to broaden your understanding.
Sentence Construction
Practice forming your own sentences using 'explanation' to solidify your comprehension and usage. For example, 'Can you give me an explanation for this delay?'
Word Families
Understand that 'explanation' comes from the verb 'explain.' Knowing word families helps you recognize related words and their meanings. Another example is 'explanatory' (adjective).
