1
as in demonstrates
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
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in illuminates
to supplement with pictorial matter for the purpose of explanation or decoration
lavishly illustrated the monograph on Caravaggio with color plates
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in explains
to make plain or understandable
the recent devastating fire illustrates the need for improved safety codes
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of illustrates
The film not only records this injustice but also illustrates the possibility of friendship across divides, delivering a poignant exploration of the occupation.
—
Patrick Hipes, Deadline, 23 Apr. 2026
But as Mackintosh persuasively illustrates, the familiar emotions of jealousy, infatuation and eventually indifference — these persist and can flourish in any relationship, however free of prohibition.
—Literary Hub, 23 Apr. 2026
As recent market volatility illustrates, however, borrowers shouldn't remain idle now that rates are in a more affordable position.
—Matt Richardson, CBS News, 21 Apr. 2026
Beyond Mosquito Lagoon Mosquito Lagoon’s collapse and eventual tentative recovery illustrates both the vulnerability and resilience of coastal ecosystems.
—Hannah V. Herrero, The Conversation, 21 Apr. 2026
The collection, offered in partnership with the Fine Art Group, illustrates her powerful creative vision that extended beyond film and into design, fashion, and literature.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 21 Apr. 2026
López's struggle illustrates new barriers facing aspiring drivers under the rule change, particularly in heavily Hispanic cities such as Miami and Orlando.
—David Ovalle, NPR, 20 Apr. 2026
Perry’s own story illustrates another dimension of the problem.
—Dimitri Mugianis, STAT, 20 Apr. 2026
The Medi-Cal debacle was not an isolated case but rather illustrates the eagerness of California’s politicians to make far-reaching declarations and commitments without fully exploring potential consequences.
—Dan Walters, Mercury News, 18 Apr. 2026
Patrick Hipes, Deadline, 23 Apr. 2026
But as Mackintosh persuasively illustrates, the familiar emotions of jealousy, infatuation and eventually indifference — these persist and can flourish in any relationship, however free of prohibition.
—Literary Hub, 23 Apr. 2026
As recent market volatility illustrates, however, borrowers shouldn't remain idle now that rates are in a more affordable position.
—Matt Richardson, CBS News, 21 Apr. 2026
Beyond Mosquito Lagoon Mosquito Lagoon’s collapse and eventual tentative recovery illustrates both the vulnerability and resilience of coastal ecosystems.
—Hannah V. Herrero, The Conversation, 21 Apr. 2026
The collection, offered in partnership with the Fine Art Group, illustrates her powerful creative vision that extended beyond film and into design, fashion, and literature.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 21 Apr. 2026
López's struggle illustrates new barriers facing aspiring drivers under the rule change, particularly in heavily Hispanic cities such as Miami and Orlando.
—David Ovalle, NPR, 20 Apr. 2026
Perry’s own story illustrates another dimension of the problem.
—Dimitri Mugianis, STAT, 20 Apr. 2026
The Medi-Cal debacle was not an isolated case but rather illustrates the eagerness of California’s politicians to make far-reaching declarations and commitments without fully exploring potential consequences.
—Dan Walters, Mercury News, 18 Apr. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for illustrates
Verb
-
This action demonstrates the president’s monumental cruelty, total lack of empathy and compassion, pathological narcissism, boundless vengefulness, abysmal ignorance and glaring immaturity.—
Voice of the People,
New York Daily News,
21 Apr. 2026
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This study demonstrates that decentralized agents can achieve complex goals by following minimal physical rules and responding to environmental cues.—
Mrigakshi Dixit,
Interesting Engineering,
20 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
Set within the cloister of Santa Maria del Carmine, just a few steps from the Aesop Brera store, the installation will wink to how the brand illuminates every skin and room by unveiling Aposē, a trio of lights designed by the brand — one of which will be produced as a limited series.—
Sandra Salibian,
Footwear News,
20 Apr. 2026
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Approximately 45 states now allow high school athletes to earn NIL money, which shows the professionalization of youth sports and illuminates how parents can play a decisive role in shaping their children’s earnings.—
Michael McCann,
Sportico.com,
15 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
Mike Jones of The Athletic explains why the lack of top-tier quarterback prospects beyond Fernando Mendoza limits the intrigue typically expected of NFL drafts.—
Andrew Greif,
NBC news,
24 Apr. 2026
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Each mural is accompanied by a link to the project’s website, which explains its mission and provides background on and pictures of each plant species featured in the murals.—
Madeline King,
Chicago Tribune,
24 Apr. 2026
Verb
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The latter song exemplifies Martin’s neck-snappingly furious style; his drumming simply never settles.—
Dean Van Nguyen,
Pitchfork,
22 Apr. 2026
-
The award goes to one Bears rookie and one veteran player who exemplifies the courage, loyalty, teamwork, dedication and sense of humor of the late Piccolo.—
Eileen T. Meslar,
Chicago Tribune,
21 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
The new law clarifies responsibilities for the CCC chair and executive director, which has been a point of contention for commissioners.—
State House News Service,
Boston Herald,
19 Apr. 2026
-
August 23 – September 22 Deep work clarifies what truly matters.—
Tarot.com,
Hartford Courant,
16 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Illustrates.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illustrates. Accessed 25 Apr. 2026.
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