Sometimes people ask us to explain something in a simple way. We may explain how something works, why something happens, or what something means. In this lesson, you’ll practice giving short, clear, and natural explanations in everyday English.
Pro Tip: Keep your explanation simple. Use short sentences, easy words, and one idea at a time. If needed, give a quick example to make your explanation clearer.
Useful Expressions
- Let me explain.
- It’s very simple.
- It means…
- In other words…
- For example…
- The reason is…
- That’s because…
- Think of it like this.
- Basically…
- It’s similar to…
- You just need to…
- It works like this.
- That’s why…
- Simply put…
- Does that make sense?
Questions & Answers
1. What is Wi-Fi?
It’s a way to connect devices to the internet without cables.
2. Why is the shop closed?
Because today is a public holiday.
3. How do I send an email?
Open your email app, write your message, and click “Send.”
4. What does “discount” mean?
It means you pay less than the original price.
5. Why are you carrying an umbrella?
Because it might rain later.
6. How does this coffee machine work?
You add water, put in coffee, and press the start button.
7. Why are you learning English?
Because I want to communicate with more people.
8. What is a password?
It’s a secret word that protects your account.
9. Why is the bus late?
Because of heavy traffic.
10. How do I save this file?
Click “Save” and choose a folder.
Conversation
Emma: What is cloud storage?
David: It’s a place where you save your files online.
Emma: So my files aren’t on my computer?
David: They can be on both your computer and the internet.
Emma: Why do people use it?
David: Because they can access their files from different devices.
Emma: Is it safe?
David: Yes, if you use a strong password.
Emma: That sounds useful.
David: It really is.
Real-Life Conversation
Customer: Excuse me, what is self-checkout?
Employee: It’s a machine where you pay for your shopping by yourself.
Customer: So I don’t need a cashier?
Employee: That’s right.
Customer: How do I use it?
Employee: First, scan each item.
Customer: What happens after that?
Employee: The machine adds the total automatically.
Customer: How do I pay?
Employee: You can use a card or your phone.
Customer: Can I pay with cash?
Employee: Not at this machine.
Customer: What if I scan something twice?
Employee: Don’t worry. I can remove the extra item.
Customer: Do I need to bring my own bag?
Employee: You can bring one, or you can buy a bag here.
Customer: Is it difficult?
Employee: Not at all. It’s very easy.
Customer: Can you help me the first time?
Employee: Of course. I’ll stay here and guide you.
Customer: Thank you so much.
Employee: You’re welcome. Let’s get started.
Quick Practice
Change the Words
Replace the words in bold.
- Basically, it’s very easy.
- The reason is the store is closed.
- For example, you can use your phone.
- It means you don’t have to pay now.
- Simply put, it’s faster.
Answer the Questions
- How do you explain what a smartphone is?
- Why do people wear helmets?
- What does “online shopping” mean?
- How do you make a cup of tea?
- Why do students take exams?
Complete the Sentences
- Let me ________.
- It’s very ________.
- The reason is ________.
- For example, ________.
- That’s why ________.
Speaking Challenge
Your friend has never used an online food delivery app.
Explain:
- What it is
- How it works
- Why people use it
- How to place an order
- How to make the payment
Try to speak for 60–90 seconds using at least five expressions from this lesson.
Common Mistakes
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| Explain me this. | Explain this to me. |
| It’s because is raining. | It’s because it’s raining. |
| It mean you save money. | It means you save money. |
| Basically is easy. | Basically, it’s easy. |
| I explain you later. | I’ll explain it to you later. |
Lesson Summary
Key Expressions
- Let me explain.
- It’s very simple.
- It means…
- In other words…
- For example…
- The reason is…
- That’s because…
- Think of it like this.
- Basically…
- It’s similar to…
- You just need to…
- It works like this.
- That’s why…
- Simply put…
- Does that make sense?
