Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
this figure illustrates
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"this figure illustrates" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to introduce a visual representation in order to explain something more clearly. For example, "This figure illustrates the different heights of the tallest buildings in the world."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Encyclopedias
Alternative expressions(20)
this figure shows
this figure demonstrates
this figure depicts
the figure illustrates
this figure presents
this chart illustrates
this picture illustrates
this video depicts
this photograph depicts
this show depicts
the drawing shows
the graphic represents
this book depicts
this graphic depicts
this photo illustrates
the image portrays
this painting depicts
this picture depicts
this image depicts
this picture reflects
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
This figure illustrates the double chains as well as the octahedral strips to which they are bonded.
Encyclopedias
This figure illustrates the itemsets by frequency.
This figure illustrates the sensors values collecting by SCM.
This figure illustrates the utility of the prediction phase.
This figure illustrates the workflow of the SNAD model.
Science
This figure illustrates the algorithm that is used for optimization.
Science
This figure illustrates large intra class variance in each class.
This figure illustrates the actions performed by DHRM (adjusting brightness).
This figure illustrates the effect that increased water saturation has on very low permeability reservoirs.
This figure illustrates the predominance of manganese as a decolourant over antimony.
Science
This figure illustrates the process of decomposing the whole measured sea clutter into two components.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "this figure illustrates" when you want to clearly introduce and explain a visual representation, such as a chart, graph, or diagram, to support your text.
Common error
Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "this figure illustrates". Vary your sentence structure by sometimes referring to the figure within the sentence or using alternative phrases like "as shown in the figure".
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "this figure illustrates" serves as an expository device. It functions to introduce and direct the reader's attention to a visual aid (a figure) and to assert that the figure provides a clear example or explanation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used.
Frequent in
Science
93%
Encyclopedias
2%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "this figure illustrates" is a grammatically sound and highly functional phrase, predominantly used in formal and scientific writing to introduce visual aids and enhance understanding. As affirmed by Ludwig, it serves as an expository device, guiding readers to interpret figures effectively. While alternatives like "this figure shows" and "this figure demonstrates" exist, the key is to ensure clarity and avoid overuse. The phrase is frequently found in scientific contexts, emphasizing its role in academic and technical communication.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
this figure demonstrates
Replaces "illustrates" with "demonstrates", emphasizing the figure's power to prove or validate a point.
as this figure illustrates
Adds "as" to the beginning of the phrase, changing the sentence structure while maintaining the same meaning.
the figure illustrates
Removes "this" from the beginning of the phrase, making it more concise but less direct.
this figure shows
Uses the more general term "shows" instead of "illustrates", providing a simpler way to describe the figure's content.
this figure depicts
Replaces "illustrates" with "depicts", highlighting the figure's visual representation of something.
the following figure illustrates
Adds "following" before "figure", indicating that the figure will be presented next.
this figure presents
Uses "presents" instead of "illustrates", focusing on the figure's role in offering information.
this figure highlights
Replaces "illustrates" with "highlights", emphasizing that the figure brings attention to key aspects.
this figure outlines
Uses "outlines" instead of "illustrates", suggesting that the figure provides a summary or framework.
this figure explains
Replaces "illustrates" with "explains", emphasizing the figure's function in clarifying a concept.
FAQs
How can I use "this figure illustrates" in a sentence?
Use "this figure illustrates" to introduce a visual element and explain its relevance to the text. For example, "This figure illustrates the relationship between supply and demand".
What are some alternatives to "this figure illustrates"?
You can use alternatives like "this figure shows", "this figure demonstrates", or "this figure depicts depending on the context.
Is it better to say "this figure illustrates" or "as this figure illustrates"?
Both "this figure illustrates" and "as this figure illustrates" are correct. The choice depends on the desired sentence structure and emphasis.
What does "this figure illustrates" mean?
"This figure illustrates" means that the accompanying visual representation provides a clear example or explanation of a concept or idea.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested