past form and past participle
Made an idea, fact, or situation clear by giving information about it.
She explained the rule clearly.
The rule was explained clearly in the guide.
American English
How to pronounce explained
verbA2Very common word
ihksPLAYND
/ɪksˈpʰleɪnd̚/
2 syllables · Stress the second syllable.
Form of explain
Made an idea, fact, or situation clear by giving information about it.
Practice out loudMeanings & examples
past form and past participle
Gave a reason for something someone did, decided, or caused.
He explained why he left early.
The decision was explained to the committee.
Useful expressions
to give reasons for what you did or said
You broke the window—explain yourself!