Explications

/ˌɛkspləˈkeɪʃənz/ noun

Definition

Detailed explanations or interpretations of something complex or unclear, made clear and understandable.

Etymology

From Latin 'explicare' (to unfold, explain) + English suffix '-tion'. The word evolved from the idea of literally unfolding something to metaphorically unfolding meaning in texts or complex ideas.

Kelly Says

The word 'explication' became super important in literary criticism in the 20th century—teachers use 'explication de texte' (text explanation) to train students to read carefully, examining every word like a detective.

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