Synonyms of illustrate

illustrate

verb

ˈi-lə-ˌstrāt 

1

as in to demonstrate

to show or make clear by using examples

she illustrated her point with a story about her experiences as a field anthropologist

Synonyms & Similar Words

• demonstrate
• explain
• exemplify
• instance
• clarify
• analyze
• specify
• cite
• mention
• elucidate
• quote
• interpret
• adduce
• detail
• explicate
• enlighten
• simplify
• illuminate
• clear (up)
• expound
• construe
• spell out
• name
• enumerate
• edify
• list
• break down

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• obscure
• blur
• muddy
• darken
• confuse
• cloud
• becloud
• puzzle
• fog
• perplex

2

as in to illuminate

to supplement with pictorial matter for the purpose of explanation or decoration

lavishly illustrated the monograph on Caravaggio with color plates

Synonyms & Similar Words

• illuminate
• visualize
• pictorialize
• picture
• image

3

as in to explain

to make plain or understandable

the recent devastating fire illustrates the need for improved safety codes

Synonyms & Similar Words

• explain
• demonstrate
• clarify
• illuminate
• simplify
• interpret
• elucidate
• explicate
• expound
• construe
• demystify
• spell out
• analyze
• clear (up)
• get across
• define
• resolve
• solve
• specify
• decipher
• unriddle
• decode
• unravel
• disentangle
• undo
• untangle
• annotate
• break down
• unscramble
• gloss
• commentate

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• obscure
• confuse
• cloud
• confound
• obfuscate
• befog

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of illustrate

The data released Tuesday night by the NTSB illustrates an unusual sequence of events leading up to the plane going off the runway. — Aaron Cooper, CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2026

The first unit, christened Ikigai, was heavily personalized by the owner, illustrating the highly flexible nature of the semi-custom model. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2026

Roush’s account, along with advocate narratives, court records and government data illustrate Sanchez-Corona’s 18 days confined by ICE. — Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 9 Sep. 2026

Why was that important to illustrate when their bond has been such a glue in the series? — Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 9 Sep. 2026