Definition of explicatorynext
as in interpretive
serving to explain most of the medical film's voice-over narration consists of explicatory remarks on the images being shown

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of explicatory But Reichardt has no interest in the kind of conventional storytelling that requires clues and revelations building to an explicatory conclusion. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 31 Aug. 2019
Recent Examples of Synonyms for explicatory
Adjective
  • Before any interpretive layer, the basic sonic patterns that people perceive depends on cultural experience.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 20 May 2026
  • And intriguing earthen mounds, built by prehistoric Native Americans more than 1,000 years ago, dot Greenwood Village interpretive site.
    Robert Annis, Midwest Living, 16 May 2026
Adjective
  • Emmie’s condition is an interpretative riddle for both her parents and the reader.
    Giles Harvey, New Yorker, 30 Mar. 2026
  • Will the academy troll Chalamet (and the rest of us) with an interpretative dance performance?
    Glenn Whipp, Los Angeles Times, 15 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Ephemera is so often illustrative of the inner life of a character, a direct, beating correlative of the contents of their hearts.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 20 May 2026
  • All figures from these sources throughout this article should be treated as illustrative and educational, not as forecasts or recommendations.
    Joel Shulman, Forbes.com, 17 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Explicatory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/explicatory. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

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