1 B1 idiomatic neutral
to explain something very clearly and in full detail
"Let me spell it out for you: the deadline will not be moved."
separable
spell it out
B1 neutral separable transitive
to explain something in a very clear and direct way with no doubt
In plain English
to say something so clearly that nobody can misunderstand it
What does "spell it out" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
to write or say every letter of it
Actually means
to say something so clearly that nobody can misunderstand it
Usage tip
Often used when someone is impatient, firm, or making things especially clear. It can sound slightly sharp depending on tone.
Words that pair with "spell it out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
rules instructions problem truth details consequences
How to conjugate "spell it out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
spell it out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
spells it out
he/she/it
Past simple
spelled it out
yesterday
Past participle
spelled it out
have + pp
-ing form
spelling it out
continuous
Hear "spell it out" in the wild
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Other ways to say "spell it out"
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