1 [C,U] an explanation (for sth) a statement, fact or situation that gives a reason for sth 说明；解释: He could not give an explanation for his behaviour. 他无法解释自己的行为。

2 [C] a statement or a piece of writing that makes sth easier to understand 口头或书面说明: That idea needs some explanation. 那个构想须要加以说明。