to explain / set out
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to set out
To explain or present a situation, a plan, or reasons in detail and in an understandable way. This word is usually used in a formal context.
In seiner Rede legte der Minister die Gründe für die neuen Maßnahmen dar.
In his speech, the minister set out the reasons for the new measures.
'Darlegen' (to set out) is a separable verb. The prefix 'dar-' comes at the end in main clauses. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Der Anwalt legte die Fakten klar dar.
The lawyer set out the facts clearly.
This verb belongs to formal language. It is typically used in presentations, official documents, academic texts, or politics.
Die Wissenschaftlerin legte ihre Forschungsergebnisse auf der Konferenz dar.
The scientist set out her research findings at the conference.
You usually set out abstract things. Common combinations are: 'die Gründe darlegen' (to set out the reasons), 'einen Plan darlegen' (to set out a plan), 'einen Standpunkt darlegen' (to set out a point of view), or 'die Fakten darlegen' (to set out the facts).
Können Sie bitte kurz Ihren Plan für das Projekt darlegen?
Could you please briefly set out your plan for the project?
to represent / portray / constitute
Both words fit when a situation or matter is presented in an understandable way. „Darstellen“ can simply mean showing or describing something, while „darlegen“ refers to a detailed and systematic explanation and usually sounds more formal. „Darstellen“ often fits a graphic or brief overview, while „darlegen“ is more suitable for a reasoned explanation.
Im Bericht legt die Leiterin den Ablauf des Projekts ausführlich dar.
In the report, the director sets out the project’s process in detail.
Die Grafik stellt den Ablauf des Projekts übersichtlich dar.
The graphic clearly shows the project’s process.
