YourDictionary

Dictionary Home » Phrase Meanings » explain oneself

What does "explain oneself" mean?

  1. Clarify what one has said or done, as in If you have a few minutes, I'll try to explain myself. [First half of 1600s]
  2. Demand or give an explanation or excuse for something wrong one has done. For example, You're three hours late—can you explain yourself?

link/cite print suggestion box