explain
verb (used with object)
to make plain or clear; render understandable or intelligible.
was explaining
-
past progressiveof explain.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
He was explaining his theories about bitcoin’s roller-coaster ride to David Lin, host of an eponymous podcast, and co-host Bonnie Chang in an episode aired Monday.
From MarketWatch ● May 12, 2026
In context, Mr. Rubio was explaining why the launch happened on Saturday, Feb. 28, instead of some other day, not why it happened at all.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 4, 2026
"It's very beautiful and I was explaining to my son that, in the end, we can all live together."
From Barron's ● Oct. 11, 2025
"Nobody was explaining what was going on; what their worries were," said Mrs Longster.
From BBC ● Oct. 12, 2024
I could tell from his gloomy face that she was explaining her decision to join the Hunt.
From "The Titan's Curse" by Rick Riordan
