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
There is a famous image of a bireme, from a relief found at the Assyrian palace at Nineveh (in modern Iraq, near Mosul), that clearly illustrates the use of a decked warship with two levels of oars.
—
Literary Hub, 15 Jan. 2026
But as Block’s story illustrates, allowing parents to isolate their kids at home with little accountability can be incredibly harmful.
—Olga Khazan, The Atlantic, 14 Jan. 2026
The underlying data also illustrates why Doekhi would be such a sensible fit in the Leeds defence.
—Beren Cross, New York Times, 14 Jan. 2026
While not intended as findings representative of the larger Etruscan region, the analysis illustrates a more intimate look at Iron Age existence.
—Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 14 Jan. 2026
All of which illustrates how this major 21st century wine movement has gone beyond fad status.
—Bloomberg, Mercury News, 13 Jan. 2026
Yet Aldi's growth illustrates the fiercer competition traditional players face as discounters lure away shoppers and win more of their weekly grocery runs.
—Melissa Repko, CNBC, 12 Jan. 2026
Grok illustrates why government needs to step in here.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 12 Jan. 2026
Advertisement No country illustrates the region’s dilemma better than Brazil, Latin America’s largest democracy.
—Oliver Stuenkel, Time, 9 Jan. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for illustrates
Verb
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Blending fun and function in consumer robotics Baby FuFu demonstrates a wider trend in consumer robotics, where usability and approachability take precedence over complexity.—
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Duwaji demonstrates that style can be commentary, an extension of thought, and a deliberate act of agency.—
Verb
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At the same time, the film chronicles his personal journey and illuminates the broader story of Cuban immigrants building new lives in America.—
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The great room, encompassing the living room, dining, and kitchen areas, has floor-to-ceiling windows and pendant lighting by Isamu Noguchi that illuminates the hardwood floors.—
Verb
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As argued in his book Abundance, Ezra Klein explains how America's growth has been hindered by well-meaning regulations, permitting requirements, and veto points that have blocked affordable housing, infrastructure, and clean energy development.—
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In a statement to PEOPLE, Zirkelbach explains her position in the conflict.—
Verb
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This type of unethical conduct exemplifies a persistent pattern of administrative neglect from the state’s executive branch.—
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Sergio’s studio exemplifies this sentiment, with vast crittall doors complementing the original stone arches and the original limestone floor and walls left in all their glory (email well in advance for a viewing).—
Verb
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Online research clarifies that the partner is still her husband, Eric, whose wandering eye started it all.—
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Archaeologists and students recently uncovered an 18th-century Catholic mission in Texas — a discovery that clarifies a key chapter in the early history of the Lone Star State.—
Cite this Entry
“Illustrates.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illustrates. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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