articulate
To express an idea clearly and effectively in words.
Examples
In a meeting
“She articulated the strategy so clearly that the whole team was aligned.”
Over coffee
“I know what I want to say but I can't quite articulate it.”
Why this word
express
articulate implies clear, well-organized communication with precision, while express is any form of conveying
explain
articulate emphasizes clarity and eloquence in presentation, while explain focuses on making something understood
say
articulate suggests skilled, clear verbal expression with structure, while say is simply uttering words
Usage tip
As an adjective, describes someone who speaks clearly. As a verb, means to express something well. Both are complimentary.
Etymology
Latin articulare — articulus (small joint, division), from artus (joint)
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Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.
paraphrase
To restate something in different words to make it clearer or shorter.