Meaning & use
illustrate
To make something clear or explain it by using examples, pictures, or comparisons.
See it in a sentence
The teacher used a simple diagram to illustrate how blood flows through the heart.
This case study illustrates the risks of ignoring early warning signs at work.
A note on using this word
Illustrate can mean to explain with examples or, more literally, to add pictures or diagrams to a book or document.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Another way to use it
2. verb
To provide a book, article, or other text with drawings, pictures, or diagrams.
A well-known artist was hired to illustrate the new edition of the novel.
Make it your own
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