Synonyms for

Illustrate

Verb / ˈɪlʌˌstreɪt / Another word for illustrate — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To make clear or explain something by giving examples or pictures.

Synonyms & similar words

instance exemplify demonstrate depict explain elucidate exemplify illuminate interpret clarify show delineate visualize portray render sketch draw design depict characterize represent symbolize

Synonyms by register

Formal

demonstrate exemplify elucidate clarify

Informal

show explain spell out make clear

Literary

emblazon adorn

Antonyms

obscure confuse conceal hide darken befuddle

Common collocations

  • illustrate a point
  • illustrate a concept
  • illustrate a story
  • illustrate the importance
  • illustrate the difference
  • illustrate with examples
  • illustrate the process

Word family

noun illustration
verb illustrate
adjective illustrative

Usage note

Often used to mean 'to make clear by using examples or pictures'. Can also mean 'to be an example of'.

Example sentences

  1. The artist will illustrate the book with beautiful drawings.
  2. Can you illustrate how to tie a shoe?
  3. The cartoon will illustrate the article.
  4. The graph will illustrate the data.
  5. The teacher will illustrate the lesson with a video.

Quotes

  • A picture is worth a thousand words. An image is worth a thousand words. A map is worth a thousand words. A graph is worth a thousand words. An illustration is worth a thousand words.
  • Illustration is a powerful tool. It can make the complex simple. It can make the abstract concrete. It can make the invisible visible.
  • Illustration is the language of communication. It can speak to the heart. It can speak to the mind. It can speak to the soul.

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