verb
to explain
A1
Meanings: to explain. Regular weak verb (no stem change); participle erklärt. Uses auxiliary haben. Often transitive: jemandem etwas erklären — person in dative, object or clause in accusative. Passive constructions are possible. Non‑reflexive and not separable; common for clarifications, instructions, or descriptions.
Examples
Der Lehrer erklärte den Schülern die Aufgabe, weil viele Fragen offen waren.
The teacher explained the task to the students because many questions were unanswered.
Sie hat mir alles erklärt.
She explained everything to me.
Kannst du mir das kurz erklären?
Can you explain that to me briefly?
Details
Mnemonics
Picture a teacher pointing at a blackboard with 'erklären' written and students listening
erk-lair-en — think 'explain' similarity in sound