explain away

1. 通过解释消除

He explained away the children's fears.

他通过解释消除了孩子们的恐惧。

2. 辩解; 就……做出令人满意的解释

She tried to explain away the missing money.

她试图为丢失的钱辩解。

explain oneself

1. 把自己的意思解释清楚

Would you explain yourself a little more?

你说得再清楚点好吗?

2. 解释自己的行为

You are late again! I hope you can explain yourself this time.

你又迟到了! 我希望这一次你能找出个理由。