spell it out

USAGE SUMMARY

"spell it out" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to make it clear that you are asking someone to explain something more clearly or to be more specific. For example: "Can you explain what you mean? Spell it out for me, please."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Spell it out?

The New York Times

(The menu doesn't spell it out).

The New York Times

Spell it out for me, poppet".

Independent

Education: Why spell it out?

The Times

Spell it out for the reader.

University of California, Berkeley

Do I need to spell it out?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Do I have to spell it out?

The Guardian

But he did not spell it out clearly tonight.

The New York Times

"I can spell it out really clearly," Dunham said.

Independent

Sometimes Doggett has to spell it out for us.

The New York Times - Arts

How would you like me to spell it out?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "spell it out", consider your audience's level of understanding. If they are unfamiliar with the subject matter, provide a more detailed explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "spell it out" when the information is already clear. Over-explaining can be perceived as condescending or insulting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spell it out" functions as an idiomatic expression used to request a more detailed and straightforward explanation. Ludwig examples show it used in situations where clarity is needed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spell it out" is a common idiomatic expression used to request a clearer and more detailed explanation. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct. While generally neutral in tone, it can be perceived as informal depending on the context. It is frequently found in news and media, as shown by the many examples sourced from publications like The New York Times and The Guardian. When using "spell it out", consider your audience and avoid over-explaining the obvious. Alternatives like ""explain clearly"" or ""make explicit"" may be more appropriate in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explain clearly

Focuses on the clarity of the explanation rather than the level of detail.

make explicit

Highlights the act of making something overtly stated instead of implied.

lay it out

Suggests presenting information in an organized and easily understandable manner.

clarify

Emphasizes the removal of ambiguity or confusion.

elucidate

Implies a more formal and thorough explanation.

detail

Focuses on the listing of specific and precise data about the topic

be specific

Stresses the need to avoid vagueness and provide concrete information.

put it in plain English

Indicates a desire for a simplified explanation, avoiding jargon or complex language.

get down to specifics

Suggests moving away from generalities and focusing on particular details.

explain in detail

Combines the concepts of explanation and thoroughness.

FAQs

How can I use "spell it out" in a sentence?

You can use "spell it out" to ask someone to explain something more clearly. For example, "I don't understand what you mean; can you spell it out for me?"

What does "spell it out" mean?

The phrase "spell it out" means to explain something very clearly and in detail, leaving no room for misunderstanding. It often implies that the explanation needs to be simplified.

What can I say instead of "spell it out"?

You can use alternatives like "explain clearly", "make explicit", or "lay it out" depending on the context.

Is it rude to say "spell it out"?

It can be perceived as rude if said in a condescending tone. It's better to use a polite tone when asking someone to "spell it out", or use more polite alternatives such as "Could you "explain clearly"?"