Synonyms for

Explanatory

Verb / ɪˈksplænʌˌtɔ:ri: / Another word for explanatory — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

intended to explain or describe something

Synonyms & similar words

explanative expositive interpretive illustrative descriptive elucidative explicative clarifying enlightening informative instructive educational didactic edifying exhortative admonitory moralistic

Synonyms by register

Formal

illuminating instructive didactic expository

Informal

explaining clear straightforward

Literary

lucid enlightening

Antonyms

obscure confusing vague unclear ambiguous puzzling enigmatic

Common collocations

  • explanatory note
  • explanatory statement
  • explanatory text
  • explanatory model
  • explanatory power
  • explanatory framework
  • explanatory variable

Word family

noun explanation
verb explain
adverb explainingly

Usage note

Often used to describe something that clarifies or makes a subject easier to understand. It is generally a neutral term, but can sometimes imply a degree of simplification.

Example sentences

  1. The book had an explanatory paragraph at the beginning to help the reader understand the story.
  2. The scientist gave an explanatory presentation on his research findings.
  3. The sign had an explanatory message to help people find their way.
  4. The video had an explanatory voiceover to guide the viewer through the process.
  5. The coach gave an explanatory demonstration of the new exercise routine.

Quotes

  • The explanatory power of science is one of the most striking features of our modern world.
  • An explanatory theory is a theory which explains why something happened.
  • The best explanatory theory is the one which fits the facts the most closely.

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