elaborate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
elaborate Word Meanings
- to develop or present in detail
- to add more information to
- made with great care and attention to detail
elaborate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
elaborate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈlæb.ər.ət/
US
/ɪˈlæb.ər.ɪt/
elaborate Word Etymology
e- (out) + laborare (to work) = to work out in detail. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a meticulous artist working hard at a canvas, each stroke adding depth and detail.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I set my pencil on the page and push it forward to begin. I move words around, adjust the spacing, and keep the ideas close at hand. As I elaborate, I change a rough sketch into a fuller, more detailed version, adding care with every small turn of the page. By the end, the simple line holds more meaning, and you can feel the effort behind each detail.
Real Context
Elaborate means to develop or present something in detail, to add more information to a plan or argument, or to create something with great care and attention to detail. In practice you might elaborate a proposal by outlining steps, examples, and potential outcomes, or elaborate a design by refining components and testing assumptions. The term often pairs with on or by, as in elaborate on a topic or elaborate a process. Learners should distinguish elaborate from simply repeating facts: it emphasizes expansion, clarification, and depth, not just length.
Usage Reminders
- - Use elaborate with on or by to add detail or information.
- - It implies depth and thorough explanation, not just length.
- - Common collocations: elaborate on, elaborate a plan, elaborate a design.
- - Often formal or academic contexts (papers, proposals).
- - Don’t confuse with decorate or embellish when talking about ideas or plans.
Common Misconceptions
- Elaborate always means 'make something more complicated'.
- Elaborate is just about making text longer, not more informative.
- Elaborate equals describe; you don't need to add new information.
- Only writers use elaborate; speakers never do.
- Elaborate is the same as decorate or embellish.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice 'elaborate on' a topic by adding steps and examples.
- Compare elaborating with simply explaining; focus on depth.
- Use in formal writing: proposals, reports, and plans.
- Pair with verbs like 'develop' vs 'elaborate' to note nuance.
- Watch collocations: elaborate on, elaborate a design, elaborate a theory.
- Avoid over-elaborating; know when detail helps clarity.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence where 'elaborate' is used correctly:
A.He gave a simple answer.
B.They finished the task quickly.
C.She provided an elaborate explanation.
D.I like to keep things basic.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'elaborate'?
A.Detailed
B.Basic
C.Extensive
D.Complex
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would someone need to be 'elaborate'?
A.Solving a simple math problem
B.Cooking a quick meal
C.Running a short distance
D.Explaining a complex concept
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on when you might use the word 'elaborate' in a conversation or writing.
A.Describing your lunch
B.Talking about the weather
C.Mentioning your favorite color
D.Discussing a science project
Related Listening
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