illustrate

B2 Topic:Communication
US /ˈɪl.əˌstɹeɪt/ UK /ˈɪl.jʊˌstɹeɪt/
verb Freq #23270

Meanings

  1. 1
    verb

    To make something clearer by giving an example or comparison.

    She used a simple chart to illustrate how the budget was spent.

  2. 2
    verb

    To add pictures, diagrams, or other images to a book or text.

    The children's book was beautifully illustrated with colourful drawings.

  3. 3
    verb

    To show or demonstrate something, especially as an example of a wider point.

    This case illustrates just how serious the problem has become.

Thesaurus

Synonyms
1 verb · to make something clearer... instance
Word family
Forms illustratedillustratesillustrating
Derived forms illustrableillustratableillustratorillustratoryoverillustratereillustrate

Etymology

Back-formation from illustration.

Topics

markdown

Send feedback

Optional — only if you'd like a reply.