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expliquer

to explain

verb ex-plee-KEH Common

Usage Note

Expliquer is a regular -er verb meaning to explain or to account for something. It takes a direct object for the thing explained and à for the person: expliquer la règle à quelqu'un (explain the rule to someone). S'expliquer means 'to explain oneself' or 'to have it out' with someone.

Examples

"Il m'explique la règle."

Natural Translation

He explains the rule to me.

Literal Translation

He me-explains the rule.

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