spell this out

USAGE SUMMARY

"spell this out" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used as a command or request for someone to explain or clarify something in detail. Example: "Can you please spell this out for me? I'm having trouble understanding your instructions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Why did he not spell this out?

The Guardian - Opinion

Second, why didn't the original contracts spell this out?

The Guardian - Opinion

Because he cannot or will not spell this out, Carney's intervention only does half the job.

The Guardian - Opinion

I spell this out because Tom Hanks is then offered as No 1.

The Guardian - Film

Axa, when I laboriously spell this out, comes to realise this.

The Guardian - Money

Though at no time did Bill Rose or I ever spell this out, look at the characters in the film.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

The first poem in Electric Light spells this out again.

The Guardian - Books

Do I really have to keep spelling this out?

The Guardian - Opinion

In Austria, only the right has spelled this out".

The Guardian

Not that Almond spells this out, of course.

The Guardian - Books

In a memorandum produced in 1945, he spelled this out in some detail.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spell this out" when you need to ensure complete understanding, especially when dealing with complex topics or diverse audiences. This phrase is direct and easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "spell this out" repeatedly in close succession, as it can make your writing sound condescending. Instead, vary your language with synonyms like "clarify", "explain in detail", or "elaborate" to maintain a more engaging and respectful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spell this out" functions as a phrasal verb, typically used imperatively to request a detailed explanation or clarification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common and acceptable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spell this out" is a phrasal verb used to request a clear and detailed explanation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral to informal, it is important to use it judiciously to avoid sounding condescending. Consider alternatives like "clarify", "explain in detail", or "elaborate" for greater nuance and formality. By using "spell this out" thoughtfully, you can ensure clear communication and understanding in a variety of contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make explicit

Highlights making something directly and unambiguously stated.

explain in detail

Emphasizes providing a comprehensive and thorough explanation.

explicate

Involves a detailed explanation or analysis to reveal meaning.

elaborate

Suggests expanding on a topic to provide more information.

lay out

Implies presenting something in a clear and organized manner.

clarify

Focuses on making something easier to understand by simplifying it.

break down

Focuses on dividing something into smaller parts to aid understanding.

specify

Suggests defining or stating something precisely.

delineate

Emphasizes describing or portraying something precisely.

detail

Focuses on the listing of specifics to make something clear.

FAQs

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

You can use "spell this out" as a direct request for clarification, such as, "Could you please "spell this out" for me?" or to indicate that something needs to be explained very clearly, for example, "The instructions need to "spell this out" to avoid confusion."

What are some alternatives to "spell this out"?

Alternatives include "clarify", "explain in detail", "elaborate", or "make explicit", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "spell this out" in formal writing?

While "spell this out" is widely understood, it may be perceived as slightly informal. In formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives such as "elucidate" or "detail" to maintain a professional tone.

When should I use "spell this out" versus "explain"?

"Explain" is a general term for making something understandable. Use "spell this out" when you need a very detailed or simplified explanation to avoid any ambiguity, or if you feel someone might be missing key details.