Synonym Chooser

How does the verb expound contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of expound are elucidate, explain, explicate, and interpret. While all these words mean "to make something clear or understandable," expound implies a careful often elaborate explanation.

expounding a scientific theory

When would elucidate be a good substitute for expound?

The words elucidate and expound are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, elucidate stresses the throwing of light upon as by offering details or motives previously unclear or only implicit.

elucidate an obscure passage

Where would explain be a reasonable alternative to expound?

While in some cases nearly identical to expound, explain implies a making plain or intelligible what is not immediately obvious or entirely known.

explain the rules

When might explicate be a better fit than expound?

The words explicate and expound can be used in similar contexts, but explicate adds the idea of a developed or detailed analysis.

explicate a poem

How are the words interpret and explain related as synonyms of expound?

Interpret adds to explain the need for imagination or sympathy or special knowledge in dealing with something.

interpreting a work of art

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 expound Yost also expounded on how Season 3 of the Apple TV+ series — which is already renewed for a fourth/final season — will differ from Shift. Matt Webb Mitovich, TVLine, 17 Jan. 2025 Rivals for the crown debate the player in front of a crowd and expound on their policies, which almost always center on a single, extreme idea, such as making booze free for everyone. Josh Broadwell, Rolling Stone, 15 Oct. 2024 Dynamic costume design serves a high calling, it is purported as a means to further expound upon the universes showrunners, producers, and networks are aiming to present. Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 22 Dec. 2024 Nearly a dozen parents responded, ready to expound on the neighborhood’s merits. Clio Chang, Curbed, 5 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for expound
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expound
Verb
  • However, Monahan also expressed optimism about the progress of the negotiations.
    Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025
  • The senators expressed concerns that the OGE's independence may be compromised since Collins is an apparent Trump ally.
    Ashley Belanger, Ars Technica, 6 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Huntsville Police Sergeant Christopher Jackson explained how the law specifically targets those who deliberately modify their vehicles to be louder.
    Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 4 Mar. 2025
  • To ensure that everyone gets a fair chance in the H-1B lottery season, the H-1B modernization rule explained that only one entry will be accepted per individual.
    Sophie Alcorn, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • One such force is the villainous cartoon Mr. Ring-a-Ding (voiced by Alan Cumming), who is shown breaking out of a movie theater screen to terrorize a 1950s audience.
    Glenn Garner, Deadline, 2 Mar. 2025
  • Expressions of solidarity with Ukraine were voiced by Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
    Katya Soldak, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The nation's largest grocery chain announced McMullen's resignation on Monday, clarifying that the investigation did not pertain to the company's business operations, financial performance, or reporting.
    Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 3 Mar. 2025
  • On Monday, a representative for Hawn clarified to CNN that the Oscar-winner’s vision is intact.
    Jack Guy, CNN, 3 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Like Huntsville's ordinance, these laws were implemented in response to resident complaints and aimed to give authorities greater enforcement power.
    Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 4 Mar. 2025
  • The La Jolla Symphony & Chorus was intended to give amateur musicians a place to play.
    Ashley Mackin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • There are numerous examples that scholars and researchers have come up with to help illustrate the DDE.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025
  • Yet a look at the films the Oscars present us with illustrates that hope is not lost.
    Steven Zeitchik, The Hollywood Reporter, 26 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Our Patriots will take to the streets to peacefully demonstrate.
    Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 2 Mar. 2025
  • That means making sure the youngster can demonstrate enough self-control that allows the educational process to function.
    Vincent Turley, Hartford Courant, 2 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Expound.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expound. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on expound

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