Describe

verb · Command words

Definition

Give an account of the main features of something.

Explanation

A description says what something is like or what happens, using specific details. It does not usually need reasons or evaluation.

Example

Describe the shape of the graph.

In an exam

Command-word meanings can vary between subjects, exam boards and mark schemes, so check your own board's guidance. See Exam Command Words: What Each Instruction Asks For.

Common confusion

Describe says what; explain says why.