illustrate

To make an idea clear by giving an example, or to be an example that shows it.

• This example illustrates my point.
• Her experience illustrated the need for better training.
• Can you illustrate how the system works?

How to use it: illustrate something with something (Let me illustrate the problem with a simple example.); illustrate how… (The chart illustrates how prices have changed.)

Similar words: demonstrate, show, explain

Common phrases: illustrate a point, illustrate the problem, illustrate with something

To draw or add pictures to a book, article, or other written work.

• She illustrates books for children.
• He illustrated the story with colorful drawings.
• Who will illustrate the magazine article?

How to use it: illustrate something with something (They illustrated the article with simple drawings.)

Common phrases: illustrate a book, illustrate a story, illustrate with pictures, illustrate a magazine