Explanatory
ɪkˈsplænətɔːri
Definitions
Serving to explain; intended to give an account that makes something clear.
ɪkˈsplænətɔːri
Serving to explain something.
The author added an explanatory footnote to clarify a point.
💡 Simply: Something that's explanatory helps you understand something else. Like, if your friend gives you an explanatory note about why they were late, you can easily get it.
👶 For kids: If something is explanatory, it helps you understand. Like, your teacher might give you an explanatory note with your test answers.
More Examples
The website's FAQ section provides explanatory answers to common questions.
The teacher used an explanatory model to help the students grasp the concept.
How It's Used
"The professor provided an explanatory diagram to clarify the complex concept."
"The judge offered explanatory remarks regarding the court's decision."
"The news report included explanatory details about the cause of the disaster."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
From Latin *explanare* ('to make plain, explain') through the past participle *explanatus*, influenced by the suffix '-atory'.
The term has been used since the late 17th century and gained prominence in scientific and academic contexts.
Memory tip
Think of a detective EXPLAINING the case: they provide an EXPLANATORY account.
Word Origin
"to make plain, to explain"