To illustrate this point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "To illustrate this point" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to provide an example or clarification to support a statement or argument you have made. Example: "Many people struggle with time management. To illustrate this point, consider the case of a student who juggles multiple responsibilities and finds it difficult to meet deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To illustrate this point, he picked up a rock and lobbed it into the pit.

The New Yorker

To illustrate this point in my presentation I used two examples of human behaviour.

The Economist

To illustrate this point, against the Whitecaps, Chivas had 13 tackles, 11 interceptions, and 41 recoveries in the first half.

The Guardian - Sport

To illustrate this point, the agency used a graphic showing the outline of Texas on a map of Europe.

The New York Times

To illustrate this point, Skyrms builds several examples.

SEP

To illustrate this point, we give an example.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

To illustrate this point, let us return to the Goodmanian Riddle of Induction.

SEP

To illustrate this point, let's review some current stock recommendations from our analysts.

Forbes

To illustrate this point, perovskite devices were fabricated with small TiO2 pieces obtained, as mentioned above.

Nano-Micro Letters

To illustrate this point further, let us consider the case where each hop experiences Weibull fading.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

To illustrate this point, we take three images, Barbara, Lena, and Boat.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "To illustrate this point" when you want to provide a concrete example to support an abstract idea or argument. Ensure the example is relevant and clearly demonstrates the concept you are explaining.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences or paragraphs with "To illustrate this point". Vary your transitional phrases to maintain reader engagement. Consider alternatives like "For example" or "Consider this case".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "To illustrate this point" functions as a transitional phrase, specifically a purpose connector. It signals that the speaker or writer is about to provide an example, explanation, or other form of illustration to support the preceding statement. As Ludwig indicates, it's a common and grammatically correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "To illustrate this point" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce an example or explanation supporting a previous statement. As Ludwig confirms, its primary function is to enhance understanding and persuasion, making it suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic writing. While it maintains a neutral to professional register, varying your transitional phrases is important to maintain reader engagement. As shown in the examples from Ludwig, "To exemplify this", "To clarify this" or "For example" can be used as alternative depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

To explain this point

This alternative focuses on clarifying the idea, rather than just showing an example.

To exemplify this point

This is a more formal way of introducing an example, placing emphasis on the model nature of the example.

To highlight this point

This emphasizes drawing attention to the key aspect of the idea.

To clarify this point

This focuses on removing ambiguity and making the idea easier to understand.

To demonstrate this point

This suggests a more active showing of the idea, perhaps with a proof or experiment.

Consider the following example

This directly invites the audience to think about the instance.

For instance

This is a shorter, more informal way to introduce an example.

By way of illustration

This is a more formal and elaborate version of the original phrase.

As an example

This is a straightforward way to introduce an example.

To put it another way

This focuses on rephrasing the idea, which may or may not include an example.

FAQs

How can I use "To illustrate this point" in a sentence?

Use "To illustrate this point" to introduce an example or explanation that supports a preceding statement. For instance, "The company's new marketing strategy has been very successful. To illustrate this point, sales have increased by 20% in the last quarter."

What are some alternatives to "To illustrate this point"?

You can use alternatives like "for example", "for instance", or "to exemplify this" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "To illustrate this point" in formal writing?

Yes, "To illustrate this point" is appropriate for formal writing. It's a clear and direct way to introduce supporting evidence or examples. However, ensure your examples are relevant and well-explained.

What's the difference between "To illustrate this point" and "to clarify this point"?

"To illustrate this point" introduces an example, while "to clarify this point" aims to make something clearer or easier to understand. Illustration uses examples; clarification focuses on explaining more directly.