German word

klären

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈklɛːʁən/

Meaning

  • verbclarify

Example

Er klärt die Ursache.

He clarifies the cause.

Illustration for klären (clarify)

More examples

Wir sollten ein Missverständnis klären.

We should clear up a misunderstanding.

Core concept

A question hidden in haze is brought into clear view, removing the uncertainty that blocks a practical answer.

Common phrases

  • eine Frage klären

    clarify a question

  • ein Missverständnis klären

    clear up a misunderstanding

  • etwas mit jemandem klären

    clarify something with someone

Similar words

erklären: Make information or reasons understandable by explaining them clearly.
besprechen: Discuss a matter with the people involved to align views or plans.
abklären: Check the necessary details and remove any remaining uncertainty.
nachfragen: Ask someone about an unclear point to confirm the facts.

Definition in German

Einen unklaren Sachverhalt untersuchen und so darstellen, dass er verständlich wird und Entscheidungen möglich sind.

Word origin

The word comes from German klar with the productive verb-forming ending -en; klar is ultimately related to Latin clarus, clear or bright.

Usage tips

  • Klären focuses on resolving an unclear matter, whereas erklären focuses on making information understandable by explaining it.

Other meanings

  • solveverb
  • purifyverb

Opposites

Related words

  • Klärungclarificationnoun
  • klärbarclarifiableadjective
  • klärendclarifyingadjective

Word lists with this word