an illustration of

USAGE SUMMARY

"an illustration of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an example meant to make something clearer, either by using words or visuals. For example: "The diagram provided is an illustration of how the system works."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(a) An illustration of event A1.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Marseille provides an illustration of that rise.

The New York Times

It would be an illustration of duty.

The New York Times

It is an illustration of a principle.

Cornell University

So here's an illustration of this.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Figure 8 shows an illustration of the process.

Nature

This is an illustration of the country's rapid football rise.

BBC

These numbers are an illustration of what Celtic have become.

BBC

Give us an illustration of how motivation works this way.

Forbes

It's an illustration of Donald Duck.

Huffington Post

Here is an illustration of this point.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an illustration of" to introduce examples that clarify complex concepts or support arguments with concrete evidence. It adds clarity and credibility to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using overly simplistic or irrelevant illustrations. Ensure your examples directly support your point and provide meaningful insight; otherwise, they can distract or confuse readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an illustration of" functions as an introductory phrase, typically preceding a noun or noun phrase. It serves to introduce an example or specific instance that clarifies or supports a broader statement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

58%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an illustration of" is a versatile and widely used expression, primarily employed to introduce clarifying examples across various domains. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, noting its prevalence in science and news media. While grammatically sound and considered neutral to professional in register, writers should avoid overly simplistic illustrations to maintain clarity. Related phrases include "an example of" and "a demonstration of", offering similar but nuanced alternatives. By adhering to best practices and avoiding common pitfalls, writers can effectively leverage "an illustration of" to enhance the clarity and impact of their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an example of

Replaces "illustration" with "example", focusing on a specific instance.

a demonstration of

Substitutes "illustration" with "demonstration", emphasizing the act of showing or proving something.

a case in point

Offers a more concise and direct way to introduce a relevant example.

an instance of

Similar to "an example of" but may imply a more specific or unique occurrence.

this exemplifies

Uses the verb "exemplifies" to highlight how something serves as a typical example.

as an indicator of

Shifts the focus to how something points to or reveals a broader trend or condition.

this highlights

Emphasizes the act of drawing attention to a particular aspect or feature.

this underscores

Stresses the importance or significance of something.

a portrayal of

Focuses on representing something, often visually or artistically.

this is indicative of

Highlights the role of something as a sign or indication of something else.

FAQs

How can I use "an illustration of" in a sentence?

Use "an illustration of" to introduce a specific example that clarifies a concept or supports an argument. For instance, "The increase in sales is "an illustration of" the product's growing popularity".

What are some alternatives to using "an illustration of"?

Alternatives include "an example of", "a demonstration of", or "a case in point", which can provide similar context while varying your writing.

Is it better to say "an illustration of" or "an example of"?

Both phrases are correct, but "an illustration of" often implies a more detailed or visual example, while "an example of" is a more general term. Choose the phrase that best fits the specific context and the nature of your supporting evidence.

How does "an illustration of" differ from "a symbol of"?

"An illustration of" provides a clarifying example, while "a symbol of" represents something abstract or intangible. For example, a chart showing sales data is an illustration, whereas a dove might be a symbol of peace.