elaboration - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
elaboration Word Meanings
- the process of developing or presenting a theory or plan in detail
- the act of adding more information or complexity to something
elaboration Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
elaboration Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/
US
/ɪˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/
elaboration Word Etymology
Root decomposition: con- (together) + laborare (to work). Historical origin: Latin 'elaboratio'→ Old French 'élaboration' → English. Memory image: Imagine a chef carefully preparing an intricate dish, adding layers of flavors and details, illustrating the act of elaborating on an idea.
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 InputReal Context
Elaboration refers to the act of developing or presenting a theory or plan in detail, adding information, explanations, and evidence to make an idea clearer and more persuasive. In writing and speaking, it means expanding on key points, clarifying assumptions, connecting data to conclusions, and anticipating questions the audience might have. The noun can describe both the process and the finished result, such as a lengthy elaboration of a proposal or a richly elaborated description of a method. The term comes from Latin elaboratio, via French, and its memory image is a chef layering flavors and details to build a complex dish.
Usage Reminders
- - Remember elaboration adds reasoning and evidence to support a claim.
- - Differentiate elaboration from mere description.
- - Use concise, relevant details; avoid wandering.
- - Link details to the main argument with clear transitions.
- - Check that each added detail serves the purpose of your point.
Common Misconceptions
- Elaboration = more words, not better reasoning
- Elaboration always lengthens the text unnecessarily
- It’s the same as describing everything in exhaustive detail
- Using elaboration means you’re explaining the audience’s own ideas
- Elaboration is only for academic writing, not everyday English
Thinking Differences
English speakers often separate elaboration from mere description by emphasizing reasoning, evidence, and explicit links to conclusions; learners may over-elaborate or under-elaborate depending on context.
Learning Tips
- Practice identifying which details truly support the main claim.
- Use transitions to weave elaborated points together.
- Compare two paragraphs: one with elaboration, one without.
- Summarize each elaborated section in one sentence.
- Read academic abstracts to see common elaboration patterns.
- Create an outline showing where each detail fits the argument.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'elaboration' mean?
A.To explain something in detail
B.To see something from a distance
C.To participate in a discussion
D.To agree completely
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'elaboration' correctly?
A.She decided to elaboration on her vacation plans.
B.I went for an elaboration to the store to buy groceries.
C.The team required more elaboration in their project timeline.
D.He made an elaboration about his decision in just a few words.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'elaboration'?
A.Reduction
B.Details
C.Simplification
D.Decompression
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'elaboration'?
A.Preparation
B.Expansion
C.Condensation
D.Obfuscation
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might need to provide elaboration?
A.A teacher asks for more details on a student’s essay.
B.The weather has been quite pleasant lately.
C.Many students enjoy extracurricular activities.
D.The news reported on the recent events with a brief summary.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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