elucidate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪˈluːsɪdeɪt/
KK: /ɪˈluːsɪdeɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To make something clear or easy to understand by providing an explanation.
Example
The teacher tried to elucidate the complex topic for her students.
Tense Forms
Past: elucidated
Past Participle: elucidated
Conversation
I didn’t quite understand that concept in class today.
Yeah, it was a bit confusing for me too.
Maybe you could help me elucidate it a little more?
Sure! I can break it down for you if you like.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
clarify
explain
illuminate
Antonyms
confuse
obscure
muddle
transitive verb
Definition
To make something clear or easy to understand by explaining it.
Example
The teacher tried to elucidate the complex topic for her students.
Tense Forms
Past: elucidated
Past Participle: elucidated
Conversation
Can you help me elucidate this concept for my project?
Sure! I’d love to help you clear it up.
Thanks! I just need to make it easier to understand for my audience.
Root Explanation
Elucidate → It is formed from "e-" (meaning out) and "lucidare" (from "lucidus", meaning clear or light). The word means to make something clear or to bring light to a subject.
Memory Tip
Think of bringing something 'out' ('e-') into the 'light' ('lucidare') to understand it better — that's why elucidate means to clarify.
Visually Confused Words
unelucidated
seleucidae
illucidate
eluviate
elaidate
reliquidate
lucite
lucida