1
Core action
Make an idea, process, or problem clear by explaining it carefully.
Example
The diagram elucidates how the valve operates.
elucidate
/ɪˈluːsɪdeɪt/ · ih-LOO-sih-daytverb
Make an idea, process, or problem clear by explaining it carefully.
Use elucidate to express this relationship precisely: make an idea, process, or problem clear by explaining it carefully.
What elucidate Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common construction
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
Further evidence may elucidate the settlement's decline.
3
Reasoning effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
Her notes elucidate an otherwise obscure passage.
Use elucidate Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The diagram elucidates how the valve operates.
Further evidence may elucidate the settlement's decline.
Her notes elucidate an otherwise obscure passage.
Precision Matters
Elucidate overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
elucidate
vs.Means make an idea, process, or problem clear by explaining it carefully.
obfuscate
Means make an idea, issue, or statement unclear, confusing, or difficult to understand.
elucidate
vs.Means make an idea, process, or problem clear by explaining it carefully.
bewilder
Means confuse or puzzle someone completely, making understanding or decision difficult.
elucidate
vs.Means make an idea, process, or problem clear by explaining it carefully.
allude
Means refer to someone or something indirectly rather than naming or explaining it explicitly.
elucidate
vs.Means make an idea, process, or problem clear by explaining it carefully.
interpret
Means explain, understand, or assign meaning or significance to information, language, evidence, or events.
Test elucidate in Context
It makes the relationship clearer through explanation.
1
The accompanying chart helps ___ the relationship between rainfall and crop yield.