elucidate

verb

i-ˈlü-sə-ˌdāt How to pronounce elucidate (audio)
Definition of elucidatenext
as in to explain
to make plain or understandable colored charts that really help to elucidate the points made in the text

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the verb elucidate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of elucidate are explain, explicate, expound, and interpret. While all these words mean "to make something clear or understandable," elucidate stresses the throwing of light upon as by offering details or motives previously unclear or only implicit.

elucidate an obscure passage

In what contexts can explain take the place of elucidate?

While the synonyms explain and elucidate are close in meaning, explain implies a making plain or intelligible what is not immediately obvious or entirely known.

explain the rules

When might explicate be a better fit than elucidate?

The meanings of explicate and elucidate largely overlap; however, explicate adds the idea of a developed or detailed analysis.

explicate a poem

When would expound be a good substitute for elucidate?

The words expound and elucidate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, expound implies a careful often elaborate explanation.

expounding a scientific theory

How are the words interpret and explain related as synonyms of elucidate?

Interpret adds to explain the need for imagination or sympathy or special knowledge in dealing with something.

interpreting a work of art

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of elucidate The companies did not immediately elucidate the terms for the Flexible Cash Advance program, but did note that applying for the program could take just three minutes and that sellers may be eligible to receive same-day approval for the funds. —Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 27 Sep. 2024 And this personal urgency may elucidate Coates’s staggering omission. —Daniel Bergner, The Atlantic, 24 Sep. 2024 Trump’s political presence has elucidated mainstream hip-hop’s decay into a cesspool of violent, ignorant, bigoted patriarchy. —Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 16 Aug. 2024 The first six presidents both elucidated that vision and gave substance to the provision for new republican structures outlined in the [United States] Constitution. —Sara Georgini, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for elucidate 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elucidate
  1. explain
  2. clarify
  3. illustrate
  4. demonstrate
Verb
  • More:Operation Lone Star explained: What's happening in Eagle Pass, Texas?
    John C. Moritz, Austin American-Statesman, 22 Nov. 2024
  • And, as a clinical social worker explains this morning, the problem is only getting worse.
    Joanna Allhands, The Arizona Republic, 22 Nov. 2024
Definition of explain
Verb
  • The document that came out today clarified both the above concerns.
    Simi Thambi​, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
  • Editor's note: This story has been updated to clarify that the 2024 figures use the state's diversity definitions and the previous years' use federal definitions.
    Asher Price, Axios, 18 Nov. 2024
Definition of clarify
Verb
  • According to the newspaper, other megadonors have also floated the idea of moving abroad, illustrating the deep fears among the Left about Trump’s second ascent to power.
    Gabe Kaminsky, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 28 Nov. 2024
  • The trust consulted on many key moments that illustrate Moana’s culture as well as her character‘s growth: her participation in a kava ceremony for a new title, the further progression of her wayfinding abilities and her pivotal performance of a haka, a ceremonial dance and chant.
    Ashley Lee, Los Angeles Times, 27 Nov. 2024
Definition of illustrate
Verb
  • Over the course of the last few weeks, the royal demonstrated her proclivity for adaptable fashion.
    Julia Teti, WWD, 20 Nov. 2024
  • But he's also demonstrated a willingness to work across the aisle with populist senators of both parties on key economic issues.
    Riley Beggin, USA TODAY, 20 Nov. 2024
Definition of demonstrate

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Thesaurus Entries Near elucidate

elsewhere

elucidate

elucidated

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Cite this Entry

“Elucidate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elucidate. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.

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More from Merriam-Webster on elucidate

Nglish: Translation of elucidate for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of elucidate for Arabic Speakers

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