to illustrate

USAGE SUMMARY

"to illustrate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to give an example to clarify or elaborate on a point. For example, "I've seen numerous examples of job applicants who were unqualified for the role. To illustrate, one applicant had zero work experience in the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To illustrate, she roof-raised.

The New York Times

To illustrate my point.

The New York Times - Arts

To illustrate, Beeman offers an example.

The New Yorker

The challenges are simple to illustrate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Cassian Elwes told a story to illustrate.

The New York Times

He showed various combinations to illustrate this.

The New York Times

This is quite simple to illustrate.

The New York Times

Kitaru clasped his hands to illustrate.

The New Yorker

First man to illustrate San Francisco paper.

The New Yorker

He contorts himself, to illustrate.

The Guardian

He pulls out the comic to illustrate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to illustrate", ensure the example directly and clearly supports the point you are making. The connection should be obvious to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using examples that are only tangentially related to your main point when using "to illustrate". Choose examples that provide clear and direct support for your argument.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "to illustrate" is to serve as an infinitive phrase functioning as a discourse marker. It signals the introduction of an example or explanation intended to clarify a previous statement. Ludwig confirms this by showcasing its common usage in introducing examples across diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

24%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to illustrate" is a versatile phrase used to introduce examples for clarification. Grammatically correct and highly common, as Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to academic writing. When employing "to illustrate", ensure the example is relevant and directly supports your point. Alternatives like "for example" or "as an illustration" can be used for variety. As demonstrated by the numerous examples in Ludwig, mastering its use can significantly enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

For example

Offers a direct and common way to introduce an example, similar to "to illustrate" but more widely applicable.

For instance

A direct synonym, often interchangeable but slightly less formal.

As an illustration

Functions as a more formal alternative to "to illustrate", indicating an example will follow.

To give an example

More verbose but equally clear in signaling an upcoming example.

By way of example

A slightly more formal and literary phrase with the same core function.

To demonstrate

Emphasizes the act of showing or proving a point, similar in function but with a stronger assertive quality.

Consider the case of

Highlights a specific instance for detailed examination, offering a more analytical tone.

Take the case of

Directs attention to a particular scenario for analysis and explanation.

As proof

Suggests a stronger level of evidence, indicating the example is definitive.

Specifically

Introduces a focused detail or example to clarify a broader point.

FAQs

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

Use "to illustrate" to introduce an example that clarifies your point. For instance, "The company culture was very supportive; to illustrate, the CEO personally mentored new employees".

What are some alternatives to "to illustrate"?

You can use alternatives like "for example", "for instance", or "as an illustration" to introduce examples.

Is it better to use "to illustrate" or "for example"?

Both phrases serve a similar function. "To illustrate" may be slightly more formal than "for example", but either is generally acceptable.

What is the difference between "to illustrate" and "to demonstrate"?

"To illustrate" typically means to provide an example for clarification, while "to demonstrate" implies showing how something works or proving a point through action or evidence.