To restate something means to say it again, usually in a different way to make it clearer or to emphasize its importance. When your teacher asks you to restate the main idea of a story, she wants you to express that idea using your own words rather than copying the text word-for-word.

Restating helps ensure everyone understands what's being discussed. In a debate, you might restate your opponent's argument before responding to it: “So you're saying that recess should be longer because students need more exercise?” This shows you've listened carefully and understood their point.

Scientists restate their findings in simpler language so non-scientists can understand them. Lawyers restate complex laws in terms their clients can grasp. When you restate something, you're translating it into clearer or more accessible language without changing its essential meaning. It's like explaining a joke to someone who didn't get it the first time: you use different words but keep the same meaning.