clarification

[klar-uh-fuh-key-shuhn]

noun

1. the act or an instance of making an idea or statement clear.

   You may use a pencil to circle words, passages, or phrases that you don't understand or that need clarification.

2. the removal of solid matter from a liquid so that it is clear or translucent.

   The clarification of butter involves first melting it and then getting rid of all milk solids, leaving behind pure saturated fat.

Other Word Forms

• nonclarification noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of clarification¹

First recorded in 1570–80, for an earlier sense; from Latin clārificātiōn-, stem of clārificātiō “a making clear,” from clārificāre “to make clear”; clarify ( def. ), -fication ( def. )

Example Sentences

The justices asked for a clarification from both sides by Nov. 17.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The White House has not issued any clarifications to the commander-in-chief's announcement.

Read more on BBC

It said it would give its reasons within 30 days, but last month it had requested clarification about documentation used on the project, and on costs.

Read more on Barron's

But Grok explains everything, and if something seems unclear I can ask a question and get clarification.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Newsom said clarifications about safety gear and additional exemptions for legitimate law enforcement activities were needed.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• description 
• interpretation 
• resolution 
• simplification www.thesaurus.com