Words / B1

ekspl-uh-NAYSHUN/ˌekspləˈneɪʃn/

An explanation makes something clear or gives a reason: a clear explanation; explanation of / for. Explain is the verb (already in the dictionary). Reason is everyday. Do not write “explanation about” in careful marking — of/for is safer. Weak explanations of graphs cost marks.

Meaning

A statement that makes something clear or gives a reason.

Examples

• “A weak explanation of the graph cost marks in paper two.”
• “There was no explanation for the missing minutes.”

Good to know

an explanation of / for. Verb: explain. Everyday: a reason. Not usually “explanation about”. Exams: explain the graph in full sentences.

Near in meaning

reason

New