to explain the circumstances; to tell someone the background or reasons for an event or situation.
親に事情を話して、助けを求めた。
I told my parents the situation and asked for help.
会社に遅れた理由を上司に事情を話して説明した。
I explained to my boss the circumstances for being late.
事故の当事者から事情を聞いて、警察に伝えた。
I heard the circumstances from the parties involved in the accident and told the police.