clarify

[klar-uh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

clarified, clarifying 

1. to make (an idea, statement, etc.) clear or intelligible; to free from ambiguity.

   Synonyms: resolve, elucidate, illuminate, explain

2. to remove solid matter from (a liquid); to make into a clear or pellucid liquid.

3. to free (the mind, intelligence, etc.) from confusion; revive.

   The short nap clarified his thoughts.

verb (used without object)

clarified, clarifying 

1. to become clear, pure, or intelligible.

   The political situation clarified.

clarify

/ ˈklærɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to make or become clear or easy to understand

2. to make or become free of impurities

3. to make (fat, butter, etc) clear by heating, etc, or (of fat, etc) to become clear as a result of such a process

Other Word Forms

• clarification noun
• clarifier noun
• nonclarified adjective
• unclarified adjective
• unclarifying adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of clarify¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Middle French clarifier, from Late Latin clārificāre, equivalent to Latin clār(us) “clear” + -ificāre -ify

Word History and Origins

Origin of clarify¹

C14: from Old French clarifier, from Late Latin clārificāre, from Latin clārus clear + facere to make

Example Sentences

Republicans took a more measured tone with Kennedy, with some praising his leadership and others asking him to clarify what they described as contradictory remarks.

From BBC

The Mail on Sunday and Sun on Sunday report her purchase of the Hove flat, with the Tories calling on her to clarify where she pays council tax.

From BBC

The head of the Metropolitan Police has called on the government to "change or clarify" the law following the arrest of comedian Graham Linehan over posts he made online.

From BBC

Experts say the ensuing judicial dust-up it will clarify precedent in a murky corner of the law.

From Los Angeles Times

"We'll give them good protection," he said, though he clarified it would not mean sending US troops to Ukraine.

From BBC

Related Words

• analyze 
• clear up 
• define 
• formulate 
• interpret 
• resolve 
• simplify 
• spell out