Academic / B2

IL-uh-strayt/ˈɪləstreɪt/

To illustrate is to make an idea clearer with an example, diagram, or picture: illustrate a point / a problem, or this example illustrates that… Demonstrate often shows how something works; illustrate shows what you mean. Illustration is the noun (also a drawing); academic writing uses To illustrate,… and as a book verb it still means “add pictures.”

Meaning

To explain something by giving examples or pictures.

Examples

• “This story illustrates the problem well.”
• “One case study will illustrate the risks involved.”
• “The diagram illustrates how the three systems connect.”

Good to know

illustrate a point / argument. To illustrate, + example. Noun: illustration.

Near in meaning

exemplify

Topics

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