explanation

Word parts

explain + -ation

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /ˌɛkspləˈneɪʃən/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

• Hyphenation: ex‧pla‧na‧tion

Noun

Singular explanation

Plural explanations

Explanation is on the Academic Vocabulary List.

1. (countable) An explanation is the words used to tell somebody how to do something or the reason for something.
   • Synonym: account

   The explanation was long and drawn-out.

2. (countable) An explanation is the cause of something.
   • Synonym: reason

   The explanation for his bad mood was a lack of sleep.

Related words

• explain