Definition of illustrativenext
as in interpretive
serving to explain an illustrative analogy in which the relationship between God and humanity is likened to that between a shepherd and his flock

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of illustrative Other early texts describe the Dao through illustrative anecdotes. Michael Naparstek, The Conversation, 6 July 2026 Volkswagen's challenges are illustrative of the headwinds facing the broader European automotive industry, Luman said, citing challenges on the road to full electrification, competition with Chinese car brands and export problems in major markets. Sam Meredith, CNBC, 2 July 2026 Winslow Homer’s The Morning Bell (originally The Old Mill, pictured above) is illustrative of this distinction in art. Literary Hub, 10 June 2026 Golinger pointed to NextEra Energy as an illustrative example of how the dynamics can compound over time. Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 9 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for illustrative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for illustrative
Adjective
  • Lot is often described in the Qurʾān, and in subsequent interpretive traditions, in the role of condemning the men of Sodom for lusting after men rather than women.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 July 2026
  • Of four interpretive signs at the park, used mostly by Brickell residents to walk their dogs, two have faded to illegibility.
    Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • The nonprofit is dedicated to promoting forest conservation efforts through exhibits, with interpretative trails around the site that venture through lush forest canopies.
    Molly Allen, Travel + Leisure, 27 June 2026
  • When subtle interpretative differences compound over months and miles, your original vision becomes unrecognizable on the front lines.
    Peter Ross, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • Along the way, Robbins spices his story through illuminative moments and mini-biographies.
    OregonLive.com, OregonLive.com, 14 Oct. 2017
Adjective
  • With its grand explanatory ambitions, theory swept away doubt, offering in its place the certitudes of an all-encompassing system.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 21 July 2026
  • Several awards recognized accountability and explanatory reporting.
    Bryce Martin, Mercury News, 2 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Illustrative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illustrative. Accessed 2 Aug. 2026.

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