Describe vs. Explain: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 6, 2023
Describe means to depict in words, while explain means to clarify or make clear.
Key Differences
Describe refers to portraying something verbally or in writing by detailing its features, characteristics, or specific events. Explain, on the other hand, goes beyond mere portrayal by providing reasons, clarifications, or insights to make something understandable.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
In literature, an author might describe a setting by painting a vivid picture of its elements, like the lush greenery or the chirping of birds. If the same author were to explain a character's behavior, they'd delve deeper, providing insights into the character's past, motivation, or psyche.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
When a person describes an object, they might talk about its color, shape, size, and other physical attributes. To explain that object’s function or purpose, one would need to provide information about how it works or why it was created.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
If you were to describe a historical event, you might provide details about the event itself, such as the date, the people involved, and the outcome. But to explain that event, you'd provide context and delve into the causes and consequences, offering a more comprehensive understanding.
Harlon Moss
Oct 06, 2023
Similarly, in science, a researcher might describe an observed phenomenon, detailing its appearance or behavior. But to truly explain the phenomenon, the researcher would offer theories or evidence that sheds light on its causes or underlying principles.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Purpose
To depict in words by detailing features.
To make clear or understandable by giving reasons.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
Depth
Provides surface-level details.
Delves deeper into reasons, causes, or background.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
Use in Literature
Portraying a setting or character's physical appearance.
Providing insights into a character's motivations.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
In Academic Settings
Outlining a topic's elements or features.
Clarifying a topic's meaning or significance.
Harlon Moss
Oct 06, 2023
Result
Leaves reader with a vivid image or portrayal.
Leaves reader with a deeper understanding or clarity.
Janet White
Oct 06, 2023
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Describe and Explain Definitions
Describe
To provide a detailed account or representation of something.
He described his journey through the dense forest.
Harlon Moss
Oct 06, 2023
Explain
To shed light on a situation or problem.
She explained the complications that arose during the project.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 06, 2023
Describe
To trace the form or outline of.
Use the compass to describe a perfect circle.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 06, 2023
Explain
To make clear or understandable.
Please explain your reasoning behind this decision.
Harlon Moss
Oct 06, 2023
Describe
To list the characteristics or features of a subject.
Can you describe the main characteristics of this species?
Aimie Carlson
Oct 06, 2023
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Explain
To define or interpret a word or concept.
Can you explain the concept of relativity to me?
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
Describe
To portray in words regarding appearance or attributes.
She described the painting as vibrant and lifelike.
Janet White
Oct 06, 2023
Explain
To provide reasons for or a cause of.
He explained why he was late to the meeting.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
Describe
To represent pictorially, often through words.
He described the scene in such detail I felt like I was there.
Janet White
Oct 06, 2023
Explain
To provide a detailed account of a subject.
Let me explain the process of photosynthesis.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 06, 2023
Describe
To convey an idea or impression of; characterize
She described her childhood as a time of wonder and discovery.
Sumera Saeed
Jul 03, 2019
Describe
To represent pictorially; depict
Goya's etchings describe the horrors of war in grotesque detail.
Sumera Saeed
Jul 03, 2019
FAQs
What does "describe" typically emphasize?
Describe emphasizes a portrayal or depiction of something in words.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
Can "describe" relate to appearance only?
No, "describe" can relate to appearance, behavior, characteristics, and more.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 06, 2023
How does "explain" differ from "describe"?
Explain delves deeper, offering reasons or clarifications, while describe focuses on portrayal.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
When talking about a painting, which word would better detail its visual attributes?
"Describe" would be apt for detailing the painting's visual attributes.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 06, 2023
Is "explain" always about providing reasons?
Not always. "Explain" can also mean to make clear, define, or interpret.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
When detailing a setting in literature, which word is more apt?
"Describe" is more apt for detailing a setting's elements.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
Is "describe" a surface-level detailing?
Generally, yes. Describe provides surface-level details, while explain goes deeper.
Sara Rehman
Oct 06, 2023
If I'm discussing the background or history of an artwork, which word should I choose?
"Explain" would be apt to discuss the background or reasons behind an artwork's creation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
If I want to clarify a complex scientific phenomenon, which word should I pick?
Use "explain" to provide clarity or deeper understanding.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
In academic settings, when should I use "explain"?
Use "explain" to clarify a topic's meaning or significance.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
Can "describe" be used in scientific contexts?
Yes, "describe" can be used to outline observations or phenomena in science.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 06, 2023
What's the result of "describing"?
It leaves the reader with a vivid image or portrayal.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
Can "explain" be used in casual contexts?
Yes, "explain" can be used casually to clarify or provide reasons.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
Can "describe" and "explain" be used interchangeably?
Not always. While they can sometimes overlap, they have distinct purposes.
Janet White
Oct 06, 2023
How would you "explain" a word's meaning?
To explain a word's meaning, you'd provide its definition or interpret its significance.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
Which word would you use to give a detailed account of a topic?
Both can be used, but "describe" for detailing features and "explain" for understanding or reasons.
Sara Rehman
Oct 06, 2023
If I want to delve into a character's psyche in literature, which word should I use?
Use "explain" to delve into motivations or deeper insights.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
What's the result of "explaining"?
It leaves the reader with a deeper understanding or clarity.
Harlon Moss
Oct 06, 2023
In academic settings, when should I use "describe"?
Use "describe" to outline a topic's elements or features.
Janet White
Oct 06, 2023
Can you "describe" emotions?
Yes, you can describe emotions by detailing how they feel or manifest.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 06, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
