Erläuterungen

Erläuterungen is a German noun that denotes explanations, clarifications, or annotations added to a text to make its meaning more accessible. In everyday language as well as in scholarly and official writing, the term is used to describe explanatory notes that accompany a document, a manuscript, or a publication. The content of Erläuterungen can range from definitional clarifications of terms to contextual information about historical, technical, or cultural references.

The word derives from erläutern, "to explain," with the noun-forming suffix -ung. The plural form Erläuterungen is common even when a single section is labeled as such, and the singular Erläuterung is used when referring to one explanatory note.

Erläuterungen are distinct from Anmerkungen (editorial notes or marginal notes) and from a full Kommentar (commentary). While Anmerkungen may pass judgment or offer critical remarks, Erläuterungen focus on clarification and understanding. In dictionaries and reference works, a section titled “Erläuterungen” provides definitions, examples, or usage notes that help readers interpret the entry.

Use of Erläuterungen is especially common in legal texts, technical manuals, religious or historical works, and educational materials, where precise interpretation of terms, procedures, or references is essential. They may appear as a separate chapter, as footnotes, or in an appended glossary.

In English, Erläuterungen are usually translated as "explanatory notes" or "explanations."