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elaborate

AdjectiveTransitive VerbIntransitive Verb
pl: nullpast: elaboratedpp: elaborateding: elaboratingcomp: more elaboratesup: most elaborate

As an adjective, the word carries a sense of intentionality and craftsmanship. It suggests a level of sophistication that goes beyond mere complexity, often evoking images of luxury, artistry, or meticulous planning. While complex might imply something difficult to understand, elaborate suggests something designed to impress or serve a specific, detailed purpose. As a verb, it functions as a request for expansion. It moves a conversation from a general summary to a specific breakdown. In professional settings, it is a polite way to ask for more evidence or a deeper explanation without accusing the speaker of being vague.

💬Conversación Casual

🎬Tuesday afternoon, David is in a meeting while Brian is hiding in the server room.
David Smith

The CEO wants to 'synergize' the cloud migration. Thoughts?

David Smith
Brian
Brian

Care to elaborate on what that actually means, or is it just more buzzwords?

💡
Brian uses 'elaborate' as a verb meaning to provide more detail. The phrase 'care to' is a slightly clipped, skeptical way of asking someone to explain themselves, reflecting Brian's grumpy personality and his disdain for David's corporate jargon.

Meanings

Adjective
[something]

Involving many carefully arranged parts or details; detailed and complicated in design.

"The dancers wore elaborate costumes adorned with gold sequins."

Transitive Verb
[a theory][policy][or system]

To develop or present a theory, policy, or system in further detail.

"Could you elaborate your plan for the new marketing campaign?"

Intransitive Verb
[a statement or explanation]

To add more detail to a statement or explanation, typically by providing more information.

"The spokesperson refused to elaborate on the reasons for the resignation."

Last Updated: May 26, 2026Report an Error