English vocabulary · C1
Elucidate
/ɪˈluː.sɪ.deɪt/ · v.
It means to make something clear and easy to understand.
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Example sentences
- The teacher elucidated the hard math problem.
- Her email elucidated the new company policy.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- e — out (from Latin)
- luc — light (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- CLARIFY — make something clear (General & Common)
- EXPLAIN — give clear details (Step-by-Step)
- ILLUMINATE — give light or understanding (Insight-Focused)
Words with the same root
luc — light
- lucid — clear and easy to understand
- illuminate — to light up or make clear
- translucent — letting light pass through softly
Lesson notes
Elucidate. It means to make something clear and easy to understand.
Similar words are clarify, explain, and illuminate. Use elucidate when a complex idea needs to become simple and clear.
The teacher elucidated the hard math problem. Her email elucidated the new company policy.
From Latin. E- means out. Luc- means light. Bringing light out onto a confusing idea — that is elucidate.