Top 50 Slang For Explanation – Meaning & Usage

Explaining things can sometimes be a bit tricky, but fear not! We’ve got you covered with a list of slang terms for explanation that will make clarifying even the most complex concepts a breeze. Whether you’re a teacher, a student, or just someone who loves to communicate effectively, this list is sure to come in handy. Stay tuned and get ready to level up your explanation game!

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1. Break it down

When someone says “break it down,” they are asking for a detailed explanation or a step-by-step breakdown of a concept or situation.

For example, if someone is struggling to understand a complex math problem, they might ask, “Can you break it down for me?”
In a dance class, the instructor might say, “Let’s break down this choreography into smaller parts.”
A teacher might use this phrase to help students understand a difficult concept by saying, “I’m going to break down the process of photosynthesis for you.”

2. Lay it out

When someone asks you to “lay it out,” they are requesting a clear and straightforward explanation or presentation of information.

For instance, if you are discussing a project with a colleague, they might say, “Can you lay out the plan for me?”
In a business meeting, a presenter might say, “Let me lay out the key points of our proposal.”
A teacher might ask a student to “lay out the steps” when solving a math problem.

3. Spell it out

When someone asks you to “spell it out,” they want you to provide a thorough and detailed explanation or clarification.

For example, if someone doesn’t understand your instructions, they might say, “Can you spell it out for me?”
In a debate, a participant might ask their opponent to “spell out their argument.”
A teacher might say to a student, “I need you to spell out the steps you took to solve the problem.”

4. Clue in

When someone asks you to “clue them in,” they want you to inform or enlighten them about a situation or piece of information they may not be aware of.

For instance, if someone is out of the loop on a conversation, they might say, “Can you clue me in on what’s going on?”
In a mystery novel, a detective might say, “I need someone to clue me in on the suspect’s alibi.”
A friend might say, “Clue me in on the latest gossip. I feel like I’m missing out.”

5. Fill in

When someone asks you to “fill them in,” they want you to provide the missing or additional information they need to understand a situation or conversation.

For example, if someone missed a meeting, they might ask, “Can you fill me in on what I missed?”
In a movie, a character might say, “I need someone to fill me in on the plan.”
A student might ask their classmate to “fill them in on the lecture notes they missed.”

6. Shed some light

To shed some light means to provide clarification or make something clearer. It is often used when someone wants more information or understanding about a particular topic or situation.

For example, if someone is confused about a complex concept, they might say, “Can you shed some light on this for me?”
In a discussion about a mysterious event, someone might ask, “Can anyone shed some light on what really happened?”
A teacher might say to their students, “Let me shed some light on this difficult math problem.”

7. Break it down Barney style

To break it down Barney style means to explain something in simple and easy-to-understand terms. The phrase is often used when someone wants a step-by-step explanation or when trying to teach someone a complex concept.

For instance, a teacher might say, “Let me break it down Barney style so everyone can understand.”
In a cooking tutorial, the host might say, “Now, I’m going to break it down Barney style so even beginners can follow along.”
If someone is struggling with a difficult task, a friend might say, “Don’t worry, I’ll break it down Barney style for you.”

8. Give the lowdown

To give the lowdown means to provide all the necessary details or information about a particular topic or situation. It is often used when someone wants a comprehensive explanation or when someone needs to be informed about something important.

For example, a boss might say to their employees, “Let me give you the lowdown on the new project.”
In a news report, a journalist might say, “Here’s the lowdown on the latest developments in the case.”
If someone is going on a trip, a travel agent might say, “I’ll give you the lowdown on the best places to visit.”

9. Put it in layman’s terms

To put it in layman’s terms means to explain something using simple and easily understandable language. The phrase is often used when someone wants to simplify a complex concept or when someone needs a clear explanation.

For instance, a doctor might say to their patient, “Let me put it in layman’s terms so you can understand your condition.”
In a scientific presentation, a researcher might say, “I’ll try to put it in layman’s terms for those who are not familiar with the subject.”
If someone is struggling to understand a technical manual, a friend might say, “Let me put it in layman’s terms for you.”

10. Put two and two together

To put two and two together means to make a logical conclusion or inference based on available information or evidence. The phrase is often used when someone realizes or understands something that might not be immediately obvious.

For example, if someone sees their friend wearing a wedding ring and a picture of a wedding on their desk, they might say, “I put two and two together and realized they got married.”
In a detective novel, the protagonist might say, “I put two and two together and figured out who the killer was.”
If someone is trying to solve a puzzle, they might say, “I need to put two and two together to find the solution.”

11. Tell it like it is

To “tell it like it is” means to speak the truth without sugarcoating or hiding anything. It is often used to encourage someone to provide a straightforward and honest explanation or opinion.

For example, if someone asks for your opinion on a new outfit, you might say, “I’ll tell it like it is – I don’t think it suits you.”
In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might say, “We need someone who can tell it like it is, regardless of the consequences.”
If a friend is seeking advice on a relationship issue, you might say, “I’ll tell it like it is – it sounds like you deserve better.”

12. Let me school you

To “school” someone means to teach or educate them, often in a specific area of knowledge or expertise. The phrase “let me school you” is used to indicate that the speaker is about to provide valuable information or insights.

For instance, if someone is struggling with a math problem, you might say, “Let me school you on this concept.”
In a discussion about music history, someone might say, “Let me school you on the origins of jazz.”
If a friend is unfamiliar with a particular artist, you might say, “Let me school you on their discography.”

13. Break it down into bite-sized pieces

To “break it down into bite-sized pieces” means to explain something complex or difficult in simple and easily understandable terms. The phrase implies breaking down information or concepts into smaller, more manageable parts.

For example, if someone is struggling to understand a difficult concept, you might say, “Let me break it down into bite-sized pieces for you.”
In a cooking class, the instructor might say, “I’ll break down this recipe into bite-sized pieces so that everyone can follow along.”
If a friend is overwhelmed by a large task, you might say, “Take it step by step and break it down into bite-sized pieces.”

14. Give me the scoop

To “give me the scoop” means to provide the latest information or news on a particular topic. The phrase is often used when someone wants to be informed about something or is seeking insider knowledge.

For instance, if a friend mentions a celebrity scandal, you might say, “Give me the scoop – what happened?”
In a conversation about upcoming events, someone might ask, “Can you give me the scoop on the party next week?”
If a coworker mentions a company restructuring, you might say, “I’m out of the loop – give me the scoop.”

15. Break it down for me

To “break it down for me” means to explain something in a simplified manner. The phrase is often used when someone wants a clearer understanding of a complex or confusing topic.

For example, if someone is struggling to understand a difficult concept, you might say, “Can you break it down for me? I’m having trouble grasping it.”
In a discussion about a complicated legal case, someone might say, “I need someone to break it down for me – the details are confusing.”
If a friend is explaining a technical process, you might say, “Can you break it down for me in simpler terms? I’m not familiar with the terminology.”

16. Fill me in

This phrase is used to ask someone to provide all the necessary information or updates on a particular topic.

For example, if someone missed a meeting, they might say, “Can you fill me in on what happened?”
In a conversation about a recent event, someone might ask, “Can you fill me in on the details?”
If a friend is talking about a new TV show, you might say, “Fill me in, I haven’t watched it yet.”

17. Tell me the story

This phrase is used to ask someone to provide a detailed account or explanation of a situation or event.

For instance, if someone mentions an interesting experience they had, you might say, “Tell me the story!”
In a conversation about a book or movie, someone might ask, “Can you tell me the story?”
If a friend is talking about a recent trip, you might say, “Tell me the story, I want to hear all the details.”

18. Give me the lowdown

This phrase is used to ask someone to give you all the important or relevant details about a particular situation or topic.

For example, if someone is planning a party, they might ask, “Can you give me the lowdown on the guest list?”
In a conversation about a new product, someone might ask, “What’s the lowdown on its features and price?”
If a friend is talking about a recent controversy, you might say, “Give me the lowdown, I want to understand what happened.”

19. Put it in plain English

This phrase is used to ask someone to explain something in a way that is easy to understand, without using complex or technical language.

For instance, if someone is struggling to understand a concept, they might say, “Can you put it in plain English for me?”
In a conversation about a complicated topic, someone might ask, “Can you put it in plain English so everyone can follow along?”
If a friend is using jargon or technical terms, you might say, “Put it in plain English, I’m not familiar with that terminology.”

20. Layman’s terms

This phrase is used to ask someone to explain something in a way that is easy for someone without specialized knowledge to understand.

For example, if someone is discussing a complex scientific theory, they might say, “Can you explain it in layman’s terms?”
In a conversation about a legal document, someone might ask, “Can you translate it into layman’s terms so I know what it means?”
If a friend is using technical jargon, you might say, “Explain it in layman’s terms, I’m not familiar with that terminology.”

21. Break it down like I’m five

This phrase is used to request an explanation that is easy to understand, as if explaining to a five-year-old child. It implies the desire for a clear and concise explanation without complex jargon or technical terms.

For example, someone might say, “Can you break down how a car engine works like I’m five?”
In a discussion about a complicated scientific concept, a person might ask, “Can you break it down like I’m five?”
When trying to understand a complex math problem, a student might request, “Can you break it down in a way that I can understand, like I’m five?”

22. Break it down to brass tacks

This phrase is used to emphasize the need to focus on the most important or basic elements of a topic or issue. It suggests cutting through unnecessary information or distractions and getting straight to the point.

For instance, during a meeting, someone might say, “Let’s break it down to brass tacks and discuss the key issues at hand.”
In a negotiation, a person might state, “Before we proceed, let’s break it down to brass tacks and talk about the bottom line.”
When analyzing a complex problem, a team leader might say, “Let’s break it down to brass tacks and identify the root cause.”

23. Give me the deets

This phrase is a casual way of asking for specific information or details about a particular topic or situation. It is often used in a lighthearted or informal context.

For example, a friend might ask, “So, what happened at the party last night? Give me the deets!”
When discussing a recent trip, someone might say, “I went to this amazing restaurant. Give me the deets if you want to check it out.”
Inquiring about a friend’s new job, a person might ask, “How’s the new job going? Give me the deets!”

24. Let me give you the 411

This phrase is derived from the American telephone area code for information services. It is used to offer or provide someone with important or relevant details about a particular topic.

For instance, when discussing a recent news event, someone might say, “Let me give you the 411 on what happened.”
Offering advice on a new restaurant, a person might say, “Let me give you the 411 on this place. The food is amazing!”
When explaining a complicated process, someone might say, “Let me give you the 411 so you understand how it works.”

25. Break it down in layman’s terms

This phrase is used to request an explanation that is easy to understand for someone who may not have expertise in a particular field. It implies the desire for a clear and concise explanation using everyday language instead of technical jargon.

For example, a scientist might be asked, “Can you break down the research findings in layman’s terms?”
In a discussion about legal matters, a lawyer might say, “Let me break it down in layman’s terms so you can understand your rights.”
When explaining a complex medical condition, a doctor might say, “Let me break it down in layman’s terms so you know what to expect.”

26. Explain it like I’m a golden retriever

This phrase is used when someone wants a concept or information explained in a way that is easy to understand, as if they were explaining it to a golden retriever. It emphasizes the need for simplicity and clarity in the explanation.

For example, if someone is struggling to understand a complex math problem, they might say, “Can you explain it like I’m a golden retriever?”
In a science class, a student might ask the teacher, “Can you explain the theory of relativity like I’m a golden retriever?”
A person might use this phrase when trying to understand a complicated legal document, saying, “I need you to explain it like I’m a golden retriever, please.”

27. Shed light on

This phrase is used when someone wants more information or clarification on a particular topic. It implies that the person wants someone to “shed light” on the subject, illuminating it and making it clearer.

For instance, if someone is confused about a recent news event, they might say, “Can you shed some light on what actually happened?”
In a discussion about a scientific discovery, a person might ask, “Can you shed light on the implications of this finding?”
Someone might use this phrase when trying to understand a complex issue, saying, “I need someone to shed light on this so I can make an informed decision.”

28. Elaborate

This word is used when someone wants additional information or a more thorough explanation of something that has been mentioned. It suggests that the initial explanation was not sufficient and more clarity is needed.

For example, if someone mentions a plan but doesn’t provide all the details, another person might ask, “Can you elaborate on how that will work?”
In a discussion about a scientific study, a researcher might say, “I can elaborate on the methodology if you’re interested.”
A person might use this word when asking for more information about a job opportunity, saying, “Can you elaborate on the responsibilities and requirements?”

29. Give the scoop

This phrase is used when someone wants the latest or most detailed information about a particular topic or event. It implies that the person wants to be “in the know” and have access to exclusive or insider information.

For instance, if someone is curious about a celebrity’s personal life, they might ask a friend, “Can you give me the scoop on their recent breakup?”
In a conversation about a new restaurant opening, someone might say, “I heard they have amazing food. Give me the scoop!”
A person might use this phrase when asking a coworker about a company-wide announcement, saying, “Did you hear anything? Give me the scoop!”

30. Give the skinny

This phrase is used when someone wants only the most important or essential details about a particular topic. It implies that the person wants a summary or condensed version of the information, without any unnecessary or extraneous details.

For example, if someone is short on time and needs a quick update on a project, they might say, “Just give me the skinny.”
In a discussion about a new movie, someone might ask, “Can you give me the skinny on the plot without any spoilers?”
A person might use this phrase when asking a friend about a recent trip, saying, “Give me the skinny on your vacation. What were the highlights?”

31. Give me the 411

This phrase is slang for asking someone to give you all the details or information about a particular situation or topic. It is derived from the telephone area code 411, which is used for directory assistance and information services.

For example, if someone is telling you about a party they went to, you might say, “Give me the 411 on the party. Who was there? What happened?”
If you’re discussing a new movie with a friend, you could say, “I haven’t seen it yet. Give me the 411. Is it worth watching?”
When someone is talking about a current event, you might ask, “Can you give me the 411 on what’s happening?”

32. Spill the tea

This phrase is slang for asking someone to share juicy or scandalous information or gossip. It is derived from the phrase “spill the beans,” which means to reveal a secret or disclose information.

For instance, if you see a friend whispering to another friend, you might say, “Spill the tea! What are you guys talking about?”
If someone is talking about a celebrity scandal, you could say, “Spill the tea. What’s the latest gossip?”
When someone mentions a secret they know, you might ask, “Okay, spill the tea. What do you know?”

33. Let me in on it

This phrase is slang for asking someone to share information or include you in a conversation or situation. It implies that you want to be included or involved in whatever is happening.

For example, if two friends are talking about a plan and you want to be included, you could say, “Let me in on it. What are you guys talking about?”
If someone is discussing an inside joke and you want to know what it’s about, you could say, “Let me in on it. What’s the joke?”
When a group of people is discussing a project and you want to contribute, you might say, “Let me in on it. I have some ideas.”

34. Break it down like a fraction

This phrase is slang for asking someone to explain something in a way that is easy to understand. It uses the analogy of breaking down a fraction into its simplest form to convey the idea of simplifying complex information.

For instance, if someone is explaining a complicated concept and you’re having trouble understanding, you could say, “Can you break it down like a fraction? I’m not following.”
If a teacher is explaining a difficult math problem and you’re struggling to grasp it, you could say, “Break it down like a fraction. I need a simpler explanation.”
When someone is talking about a complex process and you want a clearer understanding, you might ask, “Can you break it down like a fraction? I want to make sure I get it.”

35. Put me on

This phrase is slang for asking someone to update you or provide you with information about a particular situation or topic. It implies that you want to be informed or included in what’s happening.

For example, if a group of friends is discussing a plan and you want to know what’s going on, you could say, “Put me on. What’s the plan?”
If someone is talking about a recent event and you want to know the details, you could say, “Put me on. What happened?”
When a colleague is discussing a project and you want to be informed, you might say, “Put me on. What’s the status of the project?”

36. Put me wise

This phrase is used to ask someone to provide information or knowledge about a certain topic. It implies a desire to be enlightened or educated.

For example, if someone is unsure about a current event, they might say, “Can you put me wise on what’s happening?”
In a conversation about a complex subject, a person might ask, “Can you put me wise on the details of that theory?”
Another might say, “I’m not familiar with this artist, can you put me wise on their work?”

37. School me

This expression is used to request someone to provide instruction or knowledge on a particular subject. It implies a desire to learn or be educated.

For instance, if someone wants to learn how to play a musical instrument, they might ask, “Can you school me on playing the guitar?”
In a discussion about a new technology, a person might say, “I’m not familiar with this, can you school me on how it works?”
Another might ask, “Can you school me in the art of cooking?”

38. Hip me

This phrase is used to ask someone to share information or knowledge about a certain topic. It implies a desire to be updated or made aware.

For example, if someone is out of touch with the latest fashion trends, they might say, “Can you hip me on what’s in style?”
In a conversation about current events, a person might ask, “Can you hip me on what’s happening in the world?”
Another might say, “I’m not familiar with this band, can you hip me on their music?”

39. Clue me in

This expression is used to ask someone to provide details or knowledge about a certain topic. It implies a desire to be enlightened or brought up to speed.

For instance, if someone is unaware of a recent development, they might say, “Can you clue me in on what’s going on?”
In a discussion about a complex concept, a person might ask, “Can you clue me in on the details?”
Another might say, “I’m not sure what’s happening, can you clue me in?”

40. Deets

This term is a shortened version of the word “details” and is used to refer to specific information or facts about something.

For example, if someone wants to know the specifics of an event, they might ask, “What are the deets?”
In a conversation about plans, a person might say, “I’ll text you the deets later.”
Another might ask, “Can you give me the deets on the new project?”

41. 411

This term is used to refer to information or the latest news on a particular topic. It can also be used to ask for information.

For example, “Do you have the 411 on the new restaurant in town?”
A person might say, “I need the 411 on what happened at the meeting.”
Another might ask, “Can you give me the 411 on the upcoming event?”

42. Lowdown

This slang term refers to the essential or most important information about a particular situation or topic. It can also be used to describe the details or facts about something.

For instance, “Give me the lowdown on what happened at the party last night.”
A person might say, “I’ll give you the lowdown on the new project during our meeting.”
Another might ask, “Can you fill me in on the lowdown of the situation?”

43. Scoop

This term is used to describe getting or giving the latest or exclusive information on a particular topic. It can also refer to a news story that is obtained before other sources.

For example, “I have the scoop on the new product launch.”
A person might say, “I’ll give you the scoop on what’s happening behind the scenes.”
Another might ask, “Did you hear the scoop on the celebrity breakup?”

44. Lay it on me

This slang phrase is used to ask someone to provide all the details or information they have on a particular topic. It can also be used to encourage someone to be honest or open.

For instance, “Go ahead, lay it on me. I want to know all the details.”
A person might say, “I’m ready to hear the truth, so lay it on me.”
Another might ask, “Can you lay it on me about what happened at the party?”

45. Give me the skinny

This phrase is used to ask someone to give the most important or essential information on a particular subject. It can also be used to inquire about the details or facts of something.

For example, “I need you to give me the skinny on the new project.”
A person might say, “Can you give me the skinny on what happened at the meeting?”
Another might ask, “Do you have the skinny on the upcoming event?”

46. Put me in the picture

This phrase is used when someone wants to be updated or informed about a situation or topic. It implies that the person wants to be included and have a clear understanding of what is happening.

For example, if a group of friends is planning a surprise party, someone might say, “Put me in the picture so I know what’s going on.”
In a work setting, a colleague might ask, “Can you put me in the picture about the new project?”
If someone is discussing a recent event, they might say, “I wasn’t there, so put me in the picture.”

47. Show me the ropes

This phrase is used when someone wants to learn how to do something or understand the procedures or rules of a particular activity or job. It implies that the person is asking for guidance or instruction.

For instance, if someone is starting a new job, they might say, “Can you show me the ropes?”
In a sports context, a new team member might ask, “Can someone show me the ropes of this game?”
If someone is learning a new hobby, they might request, “I’m new to this, can you show me the ropes?”

48. Let me clue you in

This phrase is used when someone wants to share information or knowledge with someone else. It implies that the person is about to reveal something important or provide insight.

For example, if someone is discussing a secret plan, they might say, “Let me clue you in on what’s really going on.”
In a conversation about a complex topic, one person might say, “Let me clue you in on some background information.”
If someone is explaining a difficult concept, they might say, “Let me clue you in on how it works.”

49. Tell me what’s up

This phrase is used when someone wants to know what is happening or wants to be updated on the current situation. It implies that the person is asking for a brief summary or update.

For instance, if someone sees a friend after a long time, they might say, “Hey, long time no see, tell me what’s up.”
In a work setting, a colleague might ask, “Tell me what’s up with the upcoming meeting.”
If someone is discussing recent news, they might say, “Tell me what’s up with the latest headlines.”

50. Fill me in on the details

This phrase is used when someone wants to know all the details or information about a particular topic or event. It implies that the person is asking for a comprehensive explanation or update.

For example, if someone missed a meeting, they might say, “Can you fill me in on the details?”
In a conversation about a recent trip, one person might say, “I heard you went on vacation, fill me in on the details!”
If someone is discussing a complex project, they might request, “I’m a bit lost, can you fill me in on the details?”