All Ears English Podcast AEE 2506: Explain it to Me Like I'm Five. How to Ask for a Simple Breakdown in English
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Nov 3, 2025 The hosts dive into the phrase 'Explain it to me like I’m five,' breaking down its informal tone and meaning. They discuss various ways to ask for simpler explanations, sharing fun examples from jobs to sports. A Spotify poll on whether it’s okay to lie to spare feelings sparks intriguing insights. Role-plays highlight how this request fosters better connections in conversations. Tune in for practical tips on navigating complex topics with ease!
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What The Phrase Really Means
- "Explain it to me like I'm five" asks the speaker to assume zero prior knowledge and simplify fully.
- The phrase is emphatic, casual, and not meant literally but requests very basic explanation.
Meditation Explained Playfully
- Michelle asks Lindsay to explain meditation "like I'm five" as a playful request for a very simple definition.
- Lindsay replies that meditation is watching your mind, then notes she'd adjust that for a true five-year-old.
Use The Phrase Casually, Not At Work
- Avoid using the phrase with bosses or experts in formal settings because it sounds casual and self-deprecating.
- Use it among friends when the topic is outside your wheelhouse to encourage a basic, friendly explanation.