illustrate why

USAGE SUMMARY

"illustrate why" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain or provide an example to support a certain reason or concept. For example, "We need to find ways to reduce our carbon footprint. Illustrate why it is important to reduce our use of carbon-emitting energy sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Two news stories yesterday illustrate why.

The Guardian - Business

Two little-known stories illustrate why.

The Guardian - Opinion

Such figures illustrate why the Lithuanian people have little sympathy for the Greeks.

The Guardian

The latest unemployment figures, released today, illustrate why the chancellor is concerned.

The New York Times

– but they help to illustrate why dating services have become such big business.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Such gifts illustrate why concern for others needs to encompass both head and heart.

The Guardian - Opinion

The goal did also perhaps illustrate why Howe is still seeking defensive recruits.

The Guardian - Sport

Please illustrate why it is that we have misunderstood, or come to the wrong conclusion.

The Guardian - Opinion

His comments illustrate why some conservatives distrust Mr. O'Neill's economic instincts.

The New York Times

Problems like these illustrate why tech companies prefer to use contractors if they can.

The New York Times - Tech

Certain developments illustrate why Hosni Mubarak's regime will be harder to dislodge than Ben Ali's in Tunisia.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "illustrate why", ensure the example or explanation directly supports the reason you are presenting. Clarity is key.

Common error

Avoid using illustrations that are too general or do not directly relate to the reason you are trying to explain. A weak illustration can confuse the reader rather than clarify your point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "illustrate why" functions as a causal connector, linking an example or demonstration to a reason or cause. It introduces evidence or a specific instance to support a preceding or subsequent statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "illustrate why" is a versatile and commonly used causal connector that introduces examples or explanations to support a particular reason. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. Its frequency is high in news and media and scientific writing, indicating its widespread acceptance in formal and informal settings. When using this phrase, ensure that the illustrations are clear, direct, and relevant to the reason being presented. Alternatives like "exemplify why", "clarify why", and "reveal why" can offer subtle differences in emphasis, depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exemplify why

This alternative focuses on providing a specific example to demonstrate the reason.

clarify why

This alternative emphasizes making the reason clearer and more understandable.

reveal why

This alternative highlights uncovering or disclosing the underlying reason.

explain the reasons why

This alternative focuses on providing a detailed explanation of the reasons involved.

elucidate why

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes shedding light on the reason.

demonstrate the reason for

This alternative shows the cause or justification for something.

offer an illustration of the reason

This option stresses the offering of a visual or descriptive example.

provide a case in point for the reason

This option emphasizes that you are giving a specific and relevant instance.

give an account of the reason

This alternative means to provide a detailed explanation or narrative.

spell out the why

This alternative is a colloquial way to say to explain something clearly and simply.

FAQs

How can I use "illustrate why" in a sentence?

You can use "illustrate why" to introduce an example or explanation that supports a particular reason. For instance, "These statistics "illustrate why" investment in renewable energy is crucial".

What are some alternatives to using "illustrate why"?

Some alternatives to "illustrate why" include "exemplify why", "clarify why", or "reveal why". The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "illustrate why" or "explain why"?

"Illustrate why" is best when you want to provide an example or visual aid to support your reasoning. "Explain why" is more suitable when you want to provide a detailed account or justification.

Can "illustrate why" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "illustrate why" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when providing evidence or examples to support an argument or analysis. It is common in both academic and professional contexts.