Expliquons

Expliquons is a conjugated form of the French verb expliquer, meaning to explain. It represents the first-person plural present tense of the verb in the indicative mood (nous expliquons). The same spelling is also used for the inclusive imperative “let us explain,” where the subject nous is understood.

Expliquer derives from Latin explicare, meaning to unfold or unfold in explanation. The element explic- reflects the idea of unfolding an idea or argument, with ex- signaling a movement outward. In the present tense form expliquons, the root is preserved and the standard -ons ending attaches to create the nous form of an -er verb. The spelling with qu serves to maintain the /k/ sound before the -ons ending.

Usage of expliquons is common in written and spoken French, particularly in instructional, expository, or persuasive contexts. It can function as a straightforward assertion about what a group is doing (we explain), or as an exhortation in the inclusive imperative (let us explain). In formal texts, it often introduces steps, rationales, or clarifications intended to guide the audience through a process or argument.

Examples:

Expliquons les étapes du processus pour que tout le monde les comprenne. (Let us explain the steps of the process so that everyone understands them.)

Expliquons pourquoi ce choix a été privilégié. (Let us explain why this choice was preferred.)