Explain like I’m five

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Explain like I’m five

ELI5 stands for “Explain Like I’m Five”, a phrase used to request a simple, easy-to-understand explanation of a complex topic, as if it were being explained to a young child.

What does Explain Like I’m five mean?

“Explain like I’m five” (ELIF) is a popular request in online forums and other digital communication spaces seeking a non-jargonistic, simplified explanation of complex technical or scientific concepts. It is often used when a topic is difficult to grasp or involves specialized terminology.

ELIF aims to convey information in a clear, concise way that is accessible to everyone, regardless of their Level of expertise. It requires the ability to break down complex concepts into manageable chunks, using simple language and analogies to make them relatable. ELIF explanations typically avoid Technical terms and intricate details, focusing instead on the core ideas and principles.

Applications

ELIF plays a crucial role in technology today for several reasons:

  • Knowledge dissemination: ELIF facilitates the sharing of knowledge among technical experts and non-specialists, enabling effective communication and bridging the knowledge gap.
  • Educational tools: ELIF explanations can serve as valuable educational tools, simplifying technical concepts for students, educators, and anyone seeking to understand New technologies.
  • Demystifying jargon: ELIF helps demystify technical jargon and industry-specific language, making it accessible to non-technical audiences and fostering inclusivity.
  • Improving comprehension: By simplifying complex concepts, ELIF enhances comprehension, reduces cognitive load, and facilitates the absorption of new information.
  • Inspiration and innovation: ELIF encourages deeper understanding and can inspire individuals to explore new technological domains and contribute to innovation.

History

The Origin of the term “Explain like I’m five” is unclear, but its widespread use can be traced back to the mid-2000s. It became popularized in online forums such as Reddit, where users would request ELIF explanations from their peers.

Over time, ELIF evolved into a broader communication style, with its principles being applied in various settings. Today, ELIF is commonly used in educational materials, technical documentation, and even scientific conferences, demonstrating its versatility and effectiveness in conveying complex information.