demonstrate

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "demonstrate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to show or explain something in a visible way, usually using a practical example. For example: "I demonstrated to my students how to solve the problem step-by-step."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We believe together we have an opportunity to demonstrate the true nature of British Islam today.

The Guardian

Checks and balances are still in place, however, and students meet with their teacher at least once a week to demonstrate what they have been learning.

The Guardian

"The results clearly demonstrate that low-income families with children are the main family group to be adversely impacted by policy changes since the last election.

The Guardian

We should show our own strength and belief in the values of democracy and tolerance, and above all we should demonstrate that the future, however hard the path to it is, does not, and never will, belong to fanatics but will be with those who believe that we should live in peace with each other, whatever our race, nation, colour or religion.

The Guardian

There is a new gateway at each incremental point and every year you have to demonstrate that you are at the appropriate level of competency to be moved up an increment.

The Guardian

(One recent survey found that school pupils thought men taking their wives' surnames would demonstrate a "weak character" but the reverse would show women were "grown-up").

The Guardian - Books

The Daily Mirror organised a man in a chicken costume to demonstrate against Cameron's cowardice.

The Guardian - Opinion

Curiously, pro-Russian sympathies are growing, as reactions to the crisis in Ukraine tend to demonstrate.

The Guardian - Opinion

Related: Brazil drought: water rationing alone won't save Sao Paulo At the Waterbank School in Laikipia, pupils demonstrate in class what they learn about economically and environmentally sustainable rainwater harvesting, water filtration, sanitation and agricultural practices, which is bound to have a wider knock-on effect for their futures.

The Guardian

Only time will tell if these spirits will, unfettered, demonstrate mutual tolerance.

The Guardian - Opinion

Indeed, it's hard not to empathise with some of the requests that we've seen – from the man who asked that we do not show a news article saying that he had been questioned in connection with a crime (he's able to demonstrate that he was never charged) to the mother who requested that we remove news articles for her daughter's name as she had been the victim of abuse.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "demonstrate" when you want to show something in a clear and convincing manner. It implies a degree of proof or validation.

Common error

Avoid using "demonstrate" when a simpler verb like "show" or "explain" would suffice. Overusing "demonstrate" can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or complex.

Linguistic Context

The primary function of "demonstrate" is to act as a verb, indicating the action of showing, proving, or illustrating something. It often involves providing evidence or practical examples to support a claim or explain a process. Ludwig AI confirms that "demonstrate" is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "demonstrate" functions as a verb used to show or prove something, often with evidence or examples. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It is most frequently found in news, business, and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. When writing, use "demonstrate" when you aim to clarify, validate, or persuade, but avoid overusing it in simple explanations. Alternatives include "show", "prove", and "illustrate". By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "demonstrate" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show

Emphasizes the act of displaying something visually or making it known.

prove

Highlights the aspect of establishing something as true through evidence or argument.

illustrate

Focuses on clarifying or explaining something with examples or visuals.

exhibit

Implies displaying something in a public or formal setting.

present

Suggests formally introducing or offering something for consideration.

display

Focuses on making something visible or prominent.

manifest

Implies revealing something that was previously hidden or unclear.

attest to

Underscores providing evidence or confirmation of something.

certify

Stresses formally confirming or validating something.

establish

Highlights the act of setting something up on a firm or permanent basis.

FAQs

How can I use "demonstrate" in a sentence?

You can use "demonstrate" to show or prove something clearly. For example, "The experiment will "demonstrate" the effects of climate change."

What are some alternatives to "demonstrate"?

Alternatives to "demonstrate" include "show", "prove", "illustrate", or "exhibit", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "demonstrate" or "show" something?

The choice between "demonstrate" and "show" depends on the context. "Demonstrate" implies a more formal and convincing presentation, while "show" is more general. Use "demonstrate" when you want to emphasize proof or validation.

What's the difference between "demonstrate" and "explain"?

"Demonstrate" involves showing how something works or is true, often through practical examples. "Explain", on the other hand, focuses on providing reasons or understanding, which doesn't necessarily require a visual or practical component.