Top 60 Slang For Describe – Meaning & Usage

We all know how challenging it can be to find the right words to describe something accurately. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top slang words for describe, so you can add a touch of flair and creativity to your conversations. Whether you’re trying to convey a feeling, a situation, or a person, these slang terms will help you spice up your language and make your descriptions more vivid. Get ready to level up your vocabulary game with this exciting listicle!

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1. Explain

To provide information or details about something in a way that is easy to understand or comprehend.

For example, a teacher might say, “Can you explain how you arrived at the answer?”
In a conversation about a complex topic, someone might ask, “Can you explain it to me like I’m five?”
A presenter might begin a speech by saying, “Let me explain the purpose of this event.”

2. Break it down

To divide something complex into smaller, more manageable parts or concepts.

For instance, a coach might say, “Let’s break down the game plan into three key strategies.”
When discussing a difficult concept, someone might say, “Can you break it down for me step by step?”
A teacher might instruct a student, “Take a moment to break down the problem into smaller components.”

3. Put into words

To articulate or communicate something using language.

For example, someone might say, “I can’t quite put into words how I feel about this.”
When describing a beautiful landscape, a person might say, “It’s hard to put into words the breathtaking view.”
A writer might struggle with a difficult scene and say, “I’m trying to put into words the intensity of this moment.”

4. Paint a picture

To use descriptive language or storytelling techniques to help someone imagine or visualize something.

For instance, a tour guide might say, “Let me paint a picture of what life was like during this historical period.”
When describing a memorable experience, someone might say, “Her words painted a picture of the most incredible adventure.”
A writer might use vivid details to paint a picture of a character’s appearance or surroundings.

5. Describe in a nutshell

To provide a concise or condensed description of something, typically focusing on the most important or essential aspects.

For example, when asked to explain a complex theory, someone might say, “In a nutshell, it’s all about cause and effect.”
When summarizing a book, a person might say, “In a nutshell, it’s a story of love and redemption.”
A presenter might begin a presentation by saying, “Let me describe the project in a nutshell before diving into the details.”

6. Give the lowdown

To give someone the lowdown means to provide them with all the necessary and relevant information about a particular situation or topic.

For example, a friend might ask, “Can you give me the lowdown on tonight’s party?”
In a business meeting, a colleague might say, “Before we begin, let me give you the lowdown on the new project.”
A journalist might write, “Here’s the lowdown on the latest fashion trends for the upcoming season.”

7. Tell it like it is

To tell it like it is means to speak honestly and directly without sugarcoating or avoiding the truth.

For instance, a friend might say, “You can always count on Sarah to tell it like it is.”
In a heated argument, someone might say, “I’m tired of your excuses. Just tell it like it is!”
A teacher might advise a student, “If you want to succeed, you need to be able to tell it like it is and not be afraid of criticism.”

8. Lay it out

To lay it out means to explain something in a clear and thorough manner, leaving no room for confusion or ambiguity.

For example, a presenter might say, “Let me lay it out for you step by step.”
In a discussion, someone might say, “I’ll lay it out for you so you understand the whole situation.”
A coach might instruct their team, “Before we start practicing, let me lay out the game plan for the upcoming match.”

9. Spell it out

To spell it out means to explain something in detail and explicitly, leaving no room for misunderstanding or confusion.

For instance, a teacher might say, “I want you to spell out your answer and show your work.”
In a conversation, someone might ask, “Can you spell out what you mean? I’m not sure I understand.”
A manager might provide instructions, “To avoid any mistakes, let me spell it out for you: follow these steps precisely.”

10. Give the scoop

To give the scoop means to provide exclusive or inside information about a particular event, situation, or topic.

For example, a journalist might say, “I have the scoop on the new celebrity couple.”
In a conversation about upcoming movies, someone might say, “Have you heard? I can give you the scoop on the next Marvel film.”
A friend might ask, “Hey, what’s the scoop on the party this weekend? Any special surprises?”

11. Give the rundown

This phrase means to give a brief summary or explanation of something.

For example, “Can you give me the rundown of what happened at the meeting?”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “Let me give you the rundown of the game so far.”
Someone might ask, “Can you give me the rundown on this new TV show?”

12. Put it in layman’s terms

This expression means to explain something using simple, everyday language that anyone can understand.

For instance, “Can you put the instructions in layman’s terms?”
When discussing complex scientific concepts, a teacher might say, “Let me put it in layman’s terms for you.”
Someone might ask, “Can you put this legal document in layman’s terms for me?”

13. Describe in detail

This phrase means to explain or depict something with a high level of detail.

For example, “Can you describe the crime scene in detail?”
When reviewing a product, a user might say, “I will describe the features in detail.”
A teacher might instruct, “I want you to describe the painting in detail.”

14. Give a play-by-play

This expression means to give a step-by-step description or account of events as they unfold.

For instance, “Can you give a play-by-play of the basketball game?”
During a live event, a commentator might say, “Let’s go to our reporter on the field for a play-by-play.”
Someone might ask, “Can you give me a play-by-play of what happened at the party?”

15. Give the deets

This slang phrase means to provide all the necessary or interesting details about something.

For example, “Can you give me the deets on the new restaurant?”
When discussing a vacation, a person might say, “I’ll give you the deets on the hotel and attractions.”
Someone might ask, “Can you give me the deets on the upcoming concert?”

16. Give the 411

This slang phrase means to provide someone with all the necessary information or details about a particular topic or situation. It is derived from the telephone area code 411, which was used to access directory assistance and obtain information.

For example, “Can you give me the 411 on the new project?”
A friend might ask, “Hey, can you give me the 411 on that party tonight?”
In a business setting, a colleague might say, “I’ll give you the 411 on the upcoming meeting agenda.”

17. Break it down for me

This phrase is used to request a detailed explanation or a simplified version of something complex. It implies breaking down the information into smaller, more understandable parts.

For instance, “Can you break it down for me? I’m having trouble understanding.”
During a presentation, a speaker might say, “Let me break it down for you so it’s easier to grasp.”
A teacher might ask a student, “Can you break down the steps of solving this math problem?”

18. Give a run-through

To give a run-through means to provide a brief summary or overview of a particular topic or process. It is often used before a detailed discussion or presentation.

For example, “Can you give me a run-through of the agenda for the meeting?”
In a rehearsal, a director might say, “Let’s do a quick run-through of the scene before we start filming.”
A coach might ask a player, “Can you give me a run-through of the play we’re going to run?”

19. Give a rundown

To give a rundown means to provide a detailed explanation or account of something. It involves providing all the necessary information or details about a particular topic or situation.

For instance, “Can you give me a rundown of what happened at the meeting?”
A journalist might say, “I’ll give you a rundown of the key points from the interview.”
During a debriefing, a team leader might ask, “Can you give me a rundown of the mission?”

20. Describe in depth

To describe in depth means to provide a detailed and thorough description of something. It involves going beyond surface-level details and delving into the intricacies and nuances of a particular topic or situation.

For example, “Can you describe the process in depth? I want to fully understand.”
A scientist might say, “I will describe the experiment in depth during my presentation.”
A tour guide might provide an in-depth description of a historical landmark to the visitors.

21. Give a blow-by-blow

This phrase is often used to describe giving a step-by-step or detailed explanation of an event or situation.

For example, if someone asks about a fight they missed, you could say, “I’ll give you a blow-by-blow of what happened.”
In a sports game, a commentator might say, “Let’s go to our analyst for a blow-by-blow of the last play.”
A friend might ask, “Can you give me a blow-by-blow of your date last night?”

22. Give a heads-up

This phrase is used to inform someone in advance or give them a warning about something.

For instance, if you’re about to send an important email, you might say, “Just giving you a heads-up, I’m about to send you an important email.”
In a work setting, a manager might say, “I wanted to give you a heads-up that there will be a team meeting tomorrow.”
A friend might warn, “Hey, just a heads-up, the movie you recommended has a sad ending.”

23. Tell me about it

This phrase is used to show empathy or agreement with someone’s statement or experience.

For example, if someone complains about a long day at work, you could respond, “Tell me about it, I had the same experience.”
In a conversation about bad traffic, someone might say, “Tell me about it, I was stuck for an hour.”
A friend might sympathize, “Tell me about it, I’ve been dealing with the same issue.”

24. Give me the lowdown

This phrase is used to ask for a concise summary or the most important details about a situation or topic.

For instance, if someone asks about a new movie, you could say, “Let me give you the lowdown on the plot.”
In a discussion about a new restaurant, someone might say, “Give me the lowdown on the menu and atmosphere.”
A friend might ask, “Can you give me the lowdown on what happened at the party last night?”

25. Lay it on me

This phrase is used to encourage someone to provide all the information or details they have.

For example, if someone has a story to tell, you could say, “Go ahead, lay it on me.”
In a meeting, a colleague might say, “I have some updates, should I lay it on you now or later?”
A friend might ask, “What did the doctor say? Lay it on me.”

26. Fill me in

This phrase is used to ask someone to give you all the information or updates about a particular situation or topic.

For example, if someone missed a meeting, they might ask a colleague, “Can you fill me in on what I missed?”
In a conversation about a recent event, one person might say, “I heard there was some drama. Can you fill me in?”
A friend might ask, “I haven’t been following the news. Can you fill me in on the latest headlines?”

27. Give me the scoop

This phrase is used to ask someone to provide you with the latest or most important information about a particular situation or topic.

For instance, if someone is talking about a new movie, you might say, “Give me the scoop. Is it worth watching?”
In a conversation about a celebrity scandal, one person might ask, “What’s the scoop on that situation?”
A friend might say, “I haven’t been keeping up with the news. Give me the scoop on what’s happening in the world.”

28. Give me the rundown

This phrase is used to ask someone to provide you with a detailed summary or explanation of a particular situation or topic.

For example, if someone is discussing a complex project, you might say, “Can you give me the rundown on what needs to be done?”
In a conversation about a new restaurant, one person might ask, “Can you give me the rundown on the menu options?”
A friend might say, “I missed the meeting. Can you give me the rundown on what was discussed?”

29. Elaborate

This word is used to ask someone to provide more details or information about a particular topic or statement.

For instance, if someone mentions a vague idea, you might say, “Can you elaborate on what you mean?”
In a conversation about a book, one person might ask, “Can you elaborate on the main themes of the story?”
A friend might say, “I don’t understand. Can you elaborate on how to solve this math problem?”

30. Paint a clear picture

This phrase is used to ask someone to provide a detailed and vivid description or explanation of a particular situation or topic.

For example, if someone is talking about a vacation destination, you might say, “Can you paint a clear picture of what it’s like?”
In a conversation about a historical event, one person might ask, “Can you paint a clear picture of the timeline and key players involved?”
A friend might say, “I’ve never been to a concert. Can you paint a clear picture of the experience?”

31. Give me the play-by-play

This phrase is used when someone wants a step-by-step description or narration of an event or situation.

For example, during a sports game, a commentator might say, “Now let’s give you the play-by-play of that incredible goal.”
In a conversation about a car accident, someone might ask, “Can you give me the play-by-play of what happened?”
A teacher might instruct a student, “When writing a story, make sure to give the reader a play-by-play of the events.”

32. Describe it like you see it

This phrase is used when someone wants a detailed description or explanation of something, as if the person is seeing it firsthand.

For instance, if someone is describing a painting, they might say, “I’ll describe it like I see it: vibrant colors and intricate brushstrokes.”
In a discussion about a crime scene, a detective might say, “We need witnesses to describe it like they see it to piece together what happened.”
A tour guide might tell visitors, “As we walk through the museum, I’ll describe each exhibit like I see it.”

33. Give me the full picture

This phrase is used when someone wants a comprehensive and complete description or explanation of a situation or topic.

For example, if someone is explaining a complex concept, they might say, “Let me give you the full picture before we dive into the details.”
In a conversation about a news article, someone might ask, “Can you give me the full picture of what happened?”
A teacher might tell students, “When writing a report, make sure to give the reader the full picture of the subject.”

34. Depict

This word is used when someone wants to describe or show something in a detailed and accurate manner.

For instance, an artist might say, “I want to depict the beauty of nature in this painting.”
In a discussion about a historical event, someone might say, “The movie accurately depicts the struggles of the time.”
A writer might describe a character by saying, “The author skillfully depicts the protagonist’s emotions throughout the novel.”

35. Illustrate

This word is used when someone wants to provide visual or verbal examples to clarify or support their description or explanation.

For example, a teacher might say, “Let me illustrate the concept with a few examples.”
In a presentation, a speaker might use charts and graphs to illustrate their points.
A writer might include illustrations in a children’s book to help young readers understand the story better.

36. Characterize

To describe or portray the essential features or qualities of someone or something.

For example, “The book characterizes the protagonist as a strong and resilient individual.”
In a film review, a critic might say, “The movie characterizes the villain as cunning and manipulative.”
A teacher might ask students to characterize a historical figure based on their actions and beliefs.

37. Portray

To represent or describe someone or something in a particular way, especially in a work of art or literature.

For instance, “The painting portrays a serene landscape with vibrant colors.”
A writer might use vivid language to portray the emotions of a character in a story.
In a documentary, the filmmaker might portray the subject’s life through interviews and archival footage.

38. Detail

To provide in-depth information or describe something with precision and thoroughness.

For example, “The report details the steps taken to address the issue.”
A chef might detail the ingredients and cooking techniques used in a recipe.
A witness might be asked to detail their account of an event during a trial.

39. Define

To state or describe the exact meaning of a word, concept, or term.

For instance, “The dictionary defines ‘courage’ as the ability to face difficult situations with bravery.”
A teacher might define a scientific term to ensure students understand its meaning.
In a debate, a participant might ask their opponent to define a key term to clarify the argument.

40. Outline

To give a general description or overview of something.

For example, “The presentation outlined the main points of the research study.”
A writer might sketch an outline before starting to write a novel.
In a business meeting, a manager might outline the agenda for the discussion.

41. Narrate

To narrate means to tell a story or recount events in a detailed and engaging manner.

For example, “She narrated her experience of skydiving in vivid detail.”
A person might say, “I love listening to audiobooks because the narrators bring the stories to life.”
In a conversation about a movie, someone might comment, “The film’s narrator provided a unique perspective on the story.”

42. Express

To express means to convey or communicate a thought, feeling, or idea.

For instance, “She used art as a way to express her emotions.”
A person might say, “I find it difficult to express myself verbally, but I can express my thoughts through writing.”
In a discussion about music, someone might comment, “The lyrics of this song express the artist’s personal struggles.”

43. Delineate

To delineate means to outline or describe something in detail.

For example, “The map clearly delineates the boundaries of the national park.”
A person might say, “Let me delineate the steps you need to follow in order to complete the task.”
In a conversation about a complex concept, someone might comment, “The professor did an excellent job of delineating the different aspects of the theory.”

44. Set forth

To set forth means to present or explain something in a clear and organized manner.

For instance, “The report sets forth the findings of the research study.”
A person might say, “I will set forth my argument in three main points.”
In a discussion about a new proposal, someone might comment, “The document sets forth the goals and objectives of the project.”

45. Enumerate

To enumerate means to list or count off items in a systematic and orderly manner.

For example, “The speaker will now enumerate the reasons why this policy is necessary.”
A person might say, “I will enumerate the steps you need to take in order to complete the task.”
In a conversation about a research study, someone might comment, “The report enumerates the various factors that were considered in the analysis.”

46. Character

In slang, “character” is often used to describe someone’s unique personality or aura. It refers to the overall vibe or energy that a person gives off.

For example, you might hear someone say, “She has such a strong character, you can’t help but be drawn to her.”
In a conversation about first impressions, someone might comment, “His character is very warm and welcoming.”
A friend might describe someone they met as, “She has a quirky character that really stands out.”

47. Capture

When someone uses “capture” in slang, they mean to perfectly depict or represent something, typically in a creative or artistic context. It implies achieving a high level of accuracy or authenticity.

For instance, an artist might say, “I really nailed the expression on her face in this painting.”
In a discussion about photography, someone might comment, “He always manages to capture the essence of a moment.”
A friend might compliment another’s outfit by saying, “You really nailed the vintage aesthetic with that outfit.”

48. Present

In slang, “present” is often used to mean to showcase or display something in an impressive or impactful way. It implies making a strong impression or delivering something with style.

For example, a performer might say, “I’m going to serve an unforgettable dance routine.”
In a discussion about public speaking, someone might comment, “He really knows how to serve a powerful presentation.”
A friend might encourage another by saying, “Go out there and serve your best self!”

49. Convey

When someone uses “convey” in slang, they mean to effectively communicate or express something. It implies successfully getting a message or idea across to others.

For instance, a songwriter might say, “I want to convey a sense of longing in this song.”
In a conversation about filmmaking, someone might comment, “The director did a great job of getting the emotions across in that scene.”
A friend might ask another, “How can I convey my excitement without sounding too over-the-top?”

50. Specify

In slang, “specify” is often replaced with “break it down,” which means to provide detailed or specific information about something. It implies giving a thorough explanation or clarification.

For example, a teacher might say, “Let me break it down for you so you can understand.”
In a discussion about a complex topic, someone might ask, “Can you break it down into simpler terms?”
A friend might say, “I need you to break it down for me step by step.”

51. Catalog

To catalog means to make a list or inventory of something. It can also refer to organizing or categorizing items or information into a systematic list.

For example, a librarian might catalog books by author, title, and genre.
In a discussion about organizing a collection, someone might say, “I need to catalog my vinyl records.”
A person might ask, “Can you help me catalog these products on our website?”

52. Chronicle

To chronicle means to narrate or tell a story in a detailed and chronological manner. It often involves recording events or experiences in the order they occurred.

For instance, a historian might chronicle a series of events in a book.
In a conversation about personal experiences, someone might say, “Let me chronicle my journey through Europe.”
A writer might use the word to describe their process, saying, “I chronicle the lives of fictional characters in my novels.”

53. Report

To report means to provide information or details about something. It often involves conveying facts or findings in a concise and objective manner.

For example, a journalist might report on a breaking news story.
In a work setting, someone might say, “I need you to report on the progress of the project.”
A student might ask, “Can you teach me how to report the results of a scientific experiment?”

54. Recount

To recount means to retell or relate a story or event in detail. It often involves recalling or describing past experiences or occurrences.

For instance, a person might recount their childhood memories in a memoir.
In a conversation about a recent trip, someone might say, “Let me recount the hilarious moments from our vacation.”
A friend might ask, “Can you recount the events that led to your promotion?”

55. Express in words

To express in words means to articulate or convey something using language. It involves finding the right words to describe thoughts, feelings, or ideas.

For example, a poet might express their emotions in words through a poem.
In a discussion about communication skills, someone might say, “It’s important to be able to express yourself in words.”
A person might ask, “Can you help me express in words what I’m feeling right now?”

56. Represent

When someone says “represent,” they mean to convey or portray something. It can be used to describe expressing one’s identity or supporting a particular group or cause.

For example, someone might say, “I represent the LGBTQ+ community.”
In a political context, a person might say, “I represent the interests of my constituents.”
A sports fan might say, “I represent my team by wearing their jersey.”

57. Detailize

Detailize is a slang term used to describe providing intricate details or explanations about something. It is often used when someone wants to emphasize the level of detail they are providing.

For instance, a teacher might say, “I will detailize the steps for solving this math problem.”
In a conversation about a crime scene, a detective might say, “We need to detailize every aspect of the evidence.”
A journalist might write, “The article detailizes the history of the conflict.”

58. Expound

Expound means to explain or discuss something in detail. It is often used when someone wants to provide a thorough explanation or analysis of a topic.

For example, a professor might say, “I will expound on the theories of quantum mechanics.”
In a debate, a participant might say, “Allow me to expound on my opponent’s argument.”
A writer might say, “The book expounds on the complexities of human relationships.”

59. Depictate

Depictate is a slang term used to describe accurately describing or representing something. It is often used when someone wants to emphasize the accuracy or precision of their description.

For instance, an artist might say, “I will depictate the landscape with great attention to detail.”
In a discussion about historical events, a historian might say, “It is important to depictate the events accurately.”
A tour guide might say, “I will depictate the history of this monument for you.”

60. Set out

Set out means to explain or describe something in a clear and organized manner. It is often used when someone wants to provide a structured presentation of information.

For example, a teacher might say, “I will set out the steps for solving this equation.”
In a business meeting, a presenter might say, “Let me set out the objectives of this project.”
A writer might say, “The article sets out the main arguments in favor of renewable energy.”