explain it to me

USAGE SUMMARY

"Explain it to me" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you need someone to provide you with more clarification about something. For example, "I'm not sure why this process isn't working. Can you explain it to me?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Explain it to me".

The New Yorker

"You explain it to me," he said.

The New York Times

But don't explain it to me again.

The Guardian - Film

Maybe someone can explain it to me.

The New York Times

I wonder if you could explain it to me".

The New Yorker

"You don't have to explain it to me".

The New Yorker

"I had to have Andrew explain it to me.

Independent

"Explain it to me one more time," W. said.

The New Yorker

I wish someone would explain it to me.

Independent

"I finally had someone explain it to me.

The New Yorker

"I wonder if you would explain it to me".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “explain it to me” to express that you need something clarified, but avoid overusing it within a short span of text, as it can make your writing sound repetitive.

Common error

Avoid using “explain it to me” without providing context. Without context the person you are talking to might not know what requires explanation, so be clear about what you want clarified.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain it to me" serves as an imperative request for clarification or a more detailed explanation. It is commonly used when the speaker does not fully understand something and needs assistance in comprehending it. Ludwig confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "explain it to me" is a very common and grammatically correct way to request clarification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across diverse contexts, from News & Media to Science and Business. When using this phrase, it's important to provide enough context so that the person you're asking can provide a relevant and helpful explanation. Consider using related phrases such as "Can you clarify that for me?" or "Could you elaborate on that?" for variety. Remember that, while acceptable across registers, maintaining a respectful tone is important for professional communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Can you clarify that for me?

More direct and focused on a specific point needing clarification.

Could you elaborate on that?

Asks for more detail and expansion on a previously mentioned topic.

I don't understand; can you explain?

Highlights a lack of understanding before requesting an explanation.

Please break that down for me.

Requests a simplification of a complex topic or idea.

What do you mean by that?

Focuses on understanding the intended meaning behind a statement.

Help me understand.

Expresses a need for assistance in comprehending something.

Can you put that in simpler terms?

Specifically asks for a less technical or complicated explanation.

Tell me more about it.

Invites a more detailed explanation or description of something.

Walk me through it.

Requests a step-by-step explanation or demonstration.

I'm not following; can you explain it differently?

Indicates confusion and asks for an alternative explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "explain it to me" in a sentence?

You can use "explain it to me" when you need someone to clarify something you don't understand. For example, "I don't understand this concept; can you "explain it to me"?"

What's a more formal way to say "explain it to me"?

In a more formal setting, you might ask "Could you "clarify that for me"?" or "Could you "elaborate on that"?" These alternatives maintain a polite and professional tone.

What can I say instead of "explain it to me" when something is too technical?

If something is too technical, you can say "Can you "put that in simpler terms"?" or "Please break that down for me". These phrases directly ask for a less complicated explanation.

Is it appropriate to use "explain it to me like I'm five"?

While "explain it to me like I'm five" can be used, it may come across as condescending. A safer alternative is to ask, "Can you "walk me through it"?" or "Help me understand" to convey that you need a simple explanation without implying the other person is talking down to you.