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This helpful guide will show you how to use elaborate in a sentence, especially since it has multiple meanings. It will show you the definition of elaborate, as well as synonyms, antonyms, and the types of connotations that the word can carry.

Usage 1 for elaborate

Definition: marked by complicated and minute detail through careful arrangement

Part(s) of speech: adjective

Antonyms: easy; simple; plain

Synonyms: embellished; garnished; ornamented

Here are but a few sample sentences of the word in action!

• You have to visit Versailles before you die. The interior is so elaborate that you’ll want to take a picture of everything.
• I’ve never seen such an elaborate jungle gym. Jerry played on it for hours and kept finding new things to discover.
• Please don’t put me on any of those elaborate diets. I need something basic and simple.
• The dance numbers were so elaborate that I wasn’t even paying attention to what they were singing.
• My science fair project was by far the most elaborate. I think I’ll win because I clearly put so much more time into it than everyone else.
• The plot of Tenet is so elaborate that I can hardly follow what’s happening.
• I don’t like elaborate writing in novels. I prefer the simplicity of Hemingway.
• The settings on my phone are so elaborate that I never even look at them. They’re just too complicated to ever figure out.
• When you pick out a purse for me, make sure it’s nothing too elaborate. I like simple bags.
• The corn maze was so elaborate that it took me an hour just to find my way out.

Usage 2 for elaborate

Here are but a few sample sentences of the word in action!

• I understand the protagonist’s motivation, but can you elaborate on why the villain hates him so much?
• You can’t just tell me I’m fired without a single reason! You better elaborate right now or I’m going to sue you.
• To elaborate on what Professor Simon said, you’ll need to take six elective courses before the end of your junior year.
• This recipe doesn’t have enough steps. Can you please elaborate on the order in which I should mix the ingredients?
• When the interns arrive, can you elaborate on the instructions I’ve given them? I think they’re going to need some hand-holding.
• I understand you prefer Batman to Superman, but you haven’t told me why. Please elaborate.
• You told me you wanted to break up. Don’t elaborate any further. That’s all the information I need.
• I would love for you to elaborate on the core principles of Buddhism, so I can better understand the religion.
• I’m sorry, but I’m so bad with directions. Can you elaborate on how I get from Washington to Main Street?
• Melanie, pay close attention. I’m only going to give these instructions once, and I will not be elaborating on any of them.