Collocation Mini-Lessons

Explaining & Illustrating

Lesson 4  ·  General Communication

B1 – B2

Register Key

General Casual News Professional Workplace
4 phrases  ·  5 example sentences each  ·  See how each phrase is used across different real-world contexts.

1 give an explanation
Example Sentences
  • When you're late, it's polite to give an explanation.General
  • Come on — give me an explanation. What happened?Casual
  • The airline was forced to give an explanation for the three-day delay.News
  • The manager gave a clear explanation of the new reporting structure.Professional
  • The trainer gave an explanation of each safety procedure before the drill.Workplace
2 explain a problem
Example Sentences
  • Take a deep breath and try to explain the problem calmly.General
  • Just explain the problem to me from the beginning.Casual
  • The engineer was called in to explain the problem that caused the blackout.News
  • The consultant explained the problem in detail before proposing a solution.Professional
  • If something goes wrong, explain the problem to your supervisor right away.Workplace
3 give an example
Example Sentences
  • It's always easier to understand a new concept when someone gives an example.General
  • Can you give me an example of what you mean?Casual
  • The professor gave an example of how inflation affects everyday purchasing power.News
  • During the presentation, she gave several examples of successful case studies.Professional
  • The trainer gave an example of the correct way to log a customer complaint.Workplace
4 provide an example
Example Sentences
  • Good teachers provide examples to make abstract ideas concrete.General
  • Can you provide an example? I'm still not sure I get it.Casual
  • The report provides examples of companies that have successfully reduced emissions.News
  • Applicants should provide examples of past achievements in their cover letter.Professional
  • The manual provides examples of common errors and how to correct them.Workplace
Bonus

illustrate a point