explanation
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explanation
An explanation or comment that serves to make something easier to understand or to add details. It helps clarify a situation, a text, or an idea.
Der Professor gab eine ausführliche Erläuterung zu der komplexen Theorie.
The professor gave a detailed explanation of the complex theory.
The noun 'Erläuterung' (explanation) comes from the verb 'erläutern' (to explain/clarify). This verb means to make something clearer or easier to understand. The ending '-ung' turns the verb into a noun.
Können Sie diesen Punkt bitte noch einmal genauer erläutern?
Could you please explain this point again in more detail?
'Erläuterung' (explanation) is very often used with the preposition 'zu' (+ dative) to name the topic of the explanation. The fixed phrase is 'zur Erläuterung' (by way of explanation/to explain).
Zur Erläuterung der neuen Regeln haben wir ein Dokument erhalten.
We received a document explaining the new rules.
Common verbs used with 'Erläuterung' (explanation) are 'eine Erläuterung geben' (to give an explanation), 'um eine Erläuterung bitten' (to ask for an explanation), or 'eine Erläuterung benötigen' (to need an explanation). Typical adjectives are 'kurz' (brief), 'ausführlich' (detailed), or 'detailliert' (detailed).
Ich möchte Sie um eine kurze Erläuterung der aktuellen Situation bitten.
I would like to ask you for a brief explanation of the current situation.
The word 'Erläuterung' (explanation) is used mainly in formal, written, or academic contexts. It often sounds more official and precise.
Die Erläuterungen zum neuen Gesetz finden Sie auf Seite drei des Dokuments.
You can find the explanations of the new law on page three of the document.
explanation / statement
Erklärung and Erläuterung both make a matter easier to understand. Erklärung is the more general term and can also refer to a brief account, whereas Erläuterung usually means targeted additional details or clarifying comments. Use Erklärung for the general content and Erläuterung when something needs to be made more precisely understandable.
Die Erläuterung unter der Grafik erklärt die einzelnen Schritte genauer.
The explanation below the graphic explains the individual steps in greater detail.
Der Lehrer gab eine kurze Erklärung zu der neuen Regel.
The teacher gave a brief explanation of the new rule.
