vt.

1. 解释；说明；阐明[（+to）][+wh-][+（that）]
   He explained that he had been cheated.

   他解释说他是上当受骗了。

   Can you explain how the machine operates?

   你能解释一下这机器是如何运转的吗？

   Please explain this rule to me.

   请给我讲解一下这条规则。

2. 为……辩解；说明……的理由（或原因）[+wh-]
   He made up a story to explain why he was absent.

   他编造了一个故事为他的缺席辩解。

vi.

1. 解释；说明；辩解
   I've got to explain about it.

   我得解释一下此事。

v.

1. make (something) clear by providing more detail.
2. give a reason or justification for.
   ▸ (explain oneself) excuse or justify one's behaviour.
   ▸ (explain something away) minimize the significance of something embarrassing by giving an excuse or justification.