as in interpretive
serving to explain
an edition of Melville's novel that could use more explanative footnotes about whaling
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for explanative
Adjective
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That a person such as Loomer is in easy conversation with the president and the secretary of state is illustrative of our era.—
Jay Nordlinger,
National Review,
17 Apr. 2025 -
There is still emerging research on how hail forms so the NOAA graphic above is meant for illustrative purposes.—
Marshall Shepherd,
Forbes,
16 Mar. 2025
Adjective
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Hybrid lanterns that meet the aforementioned criteria are indeed out there, waiting to illuminate your next campsite, glamping trip, picnic, late-night reading session, or simply to add a little illuminative flare to that embarrassingly barren bookshelf in time for the next Zoom meeting.—
J.D. Simkins,
Sunset Magazine,
17 Feb. 2022
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Along the way, Robbins spices his story through illuminative moments and mini-biographies.—
OregonLive.com,
OregonLive.com,
14 Oct. 2017
Adjective
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Remember, the term ORC is descriptive, not explanatory.—
Phil Plait,
Scientific American,
17 Apr. 2025
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Then on Monday, Musk shared an explanatory video that promoted free trade.—
Kinsey Crowley,
USA Today,
7 Apr. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Explanative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/explanative. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.
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