explain
verb (used with object)
to make plain or clear; render understandable or intelligible.
had explained
-
past perfectof explain.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In recent weeks, the German government had explained it was so far keeping the Russian House open by pointing to its bilateral contractual link to the Goethe Institute in Moscow.
From Barron's ● Sep. 1, 2026
Infantino said he had explained to Trump that "there was an ongoing legal process involving FIFA's independent judicial bodies and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent bodies".
From Barron's ● Jul. 6, 2026
He reports that Cottrell had "explained that in 2018 he was reluctant to re-appoint David Tudor but was told that there was nobody suitable to replace him as area dean."
From BBC ● Jan. 29, 2026
Hannah Gurholt, the graduate student who has had some success with the drugs, wishes that her psychiatrists had explained the potential side effects more clearly.
From Salon ● May 23, 2025
I tried to write and draw everything I could remember in the sketch pad, so I could transfer all that Robin had explained into the field guide.
From "The Line Tender" by Kate Allen
