Explains is a verb that is commonly used to mean "to make something clear or understandable." There are several synonyms for the word explains that you can use to broaden your vocabulary. One synonym is elucidates, which means to explain or clarify something further. Another synonym is expounds, which means to give a detailed explanation of something. Clarifies is another synonym for explains, which involves explaining something in a way that removes ambiguity or confusion. Describes is also a synonym that denotes giving a detailed account of something. Other synonyms for explains include illuminates, explicates, unravels, and spells out, among others. By using synonyms for explains, you can make your writing sound more diverse and interesting.