Words / C1

i-LAB-uh-rayt/ɪˈlæbəreɪt/

To elaborate is to add detail to an explanation: elaborate on that point. Explain is everyday and may still be brief; expand (on) is a close synonym. As an adjective, elaborate means complicated and detailed — a different use — and elaboration is the noun. In seminars, could you elaborate is a polite prompt; in speech, say more is enough.

Meaning

To add more detail to an idea or explanation.

Examples

• “Could you elaborate on that last point?”
• “Could you elaborate on the third criterion?”
• “The footnote elaborates the exception, which the main text skips.”

Good to know

elaborate on + noun. Add detail. Everyday: say more / expand on. Adjective elaborate = detailed, ornate.

Near in meaning

expand

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