Erklären Translations, meanings and synonyms

"Erklären" is used as verb with the meaning of "explain", "clarify" or "declare".

Essential properties of "erklären"

Its most important properties are:

Properties

  • Infinitive: erklären
  • Simple past: erklärte
  • Participle: erklärt

See full conjugation of erklären

regulartransitive
Note: These properties are not absolute. A transitive verb can be used intransitively and vice versa depending on context, and many verbs can be used reflexively even though they are not primarily reflexive.

Meanings of "erklären" + more translations, synonyms and antonyms

It has the meanings and uses detailed below:

1.) "To make something clear or explain it"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Er kann den Sachverhalt sehr gut erklären.He can explain the facts very well.
  2. Sie erklärte ihm die Aufgabe Schritt für Schritt.She explained the task to him step by step.
  3. Kannst du mir bitte erklären, wie das funktioniert?Can you please explain to me how that works?

2.) "To declare or state officially"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Der Präsident erklärte den Notstand.The president declared a state of emergency.
  2. Er erklärte seinen Rücktritt vor der Presse.He announced his resignation to the press.
  3. Sie erklärte die Sitzung für eröffnet.She declared the meeting open.

3.) "To interpret or give a reason"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Wie erklärst du dir seine Reaktion?How do you explain his reaction?
  2. Das Verhalten des Tieres lässt sich schwer erklären.The animal's behavior is difficult to explain.
  3. Er konnte die Ergebnisse der Studie nicht erklären.He could not explain the results of the study.
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