explain
Use the verb “explain” when providing information about a process or reason why something exists.
- Our teacher explained how to make questions in the present tense.
- Could you please explain this to me.
- The problem was explained to us. (This sentence uses “explain” in the passive voice.)
The word “explanation” is a noun.
Students often ask for explanations.
Who is speaking?
- Could you please explain how this works? (A student is asking a question.
- Would you mind explaining this to us? (A student is asking a question.)
- Would you like me to explain? (A teacher is offering an explanation.)
- Please explain this to me. (A student is asking for an explanation.)
- Allow me to explain. (A teacher wants to explain something.)
- Let me explain. (A teacher wants to explain something.)
- The teacher explained it to us. (A student refers to an explanation.)
- It was explained to us. (A student comments on an explanation.)
- Thanks for explaining that to me. (A students thanks someone for an explanation.)
- An expert on birds explained a few things about how birds produce their songs.
- She explained how the sounds are made.
