illustrate — to explain or make clear by using examples, pictures, or diagrams
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to explain or make clear by using examples, pictures, or diagrams
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈɪləstreɪt/
Example Sentences
- My mom tried to illustrate how to cook ramen, but somehow I still burned the water!
- The comic book perfectly illustrates why I should never trust a superhero with my homework.
- The research data illustrates a significant improvement in student performance.
illustrate
VERB[/ˈɪləstreɪt/]
to explain or make clear by using examples, pictures, or diagrams
She didn't explain it — she illustrated it, and the room understood immediately.
ILL US — illustrate it STRAIGHT so we all understand. (ILL + US + STRAIGHT → When we are ILL with confusion, illustrate it STRAIGHT for US)
Illustrate, then demonstrate — no need to elaborate.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'illustrare', meaning 'to light up' or 'to make bright', derived from 'in-' (in) and 'lustrare' (to brighten or illuminate). The word evolved to mean 'to make clear' or 'to explain' in the figurative sense.
Breakdown
in- (in/into) + lustr- (to light up/brighten) + -ate (verb suffix) = illustrate
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
“Let me illustrate my point with a real example.”
“The graph clearly illustrates the trend.”
“This accident illustrates the importance of safety rules.”
“Children love illustrated books with colorful pictures.”
“The professor illustrated the theory with real-world examples.”
📝Examples
“My mom tried to illustrate how to cook ramen, but somehow I still burned the water!”
“The comic book perfectly illustrates why I should never trust a superhero with my homework.”
“The research data illustrates a significant improvement in student performance.”
“This historical event illustrates the power of peaceful protest.”
“The artist was commissioned to illustrate the new fantasy novel.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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