What is a critical difference between 'explain' and 'tell'?

The concept of 'explain' versus 'tell' hinges on how information is communicated and structured in a sentence. When using 'explain,' it often indicates a need for clarification or detailed information about a subject, typically requiring a direct object and frequently followed by the preposition 'to' when indicating the recipient of the explanation.

For example, you would say, "I will explain the procedure to you," where 'to you' specifies who is receiving the explanation. This structure emphasizes the interactive nature of the explanation, as it involves not just conveying information but ensuring understanding.

In contrast, with the verb 'tell,' information can be delivered without necessarily requiring additional clarification, and it does not always necessitate the preposition 'to.' One might say, "I told you the news," where 'you' directly receives the information without the preposition.

Thus, recognizing that 'explain' requires the preposition 'to' with a noun highlights its function of detailed communication and interaction, making it distinctively essential for conveying thorough understanding. This nuanced usage is what differentiates these two verbs in their application to various contexts.