use to illustrate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "use to illustrate" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you want to explain or clarify a point by providing an example or visual representation. For example, "The author uses several case studies to illustrate the main argument." Alternative expressions include "employ to demonstrate," "utilize to explain," and "apply to show."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

This is a uniquely original approach to the problem, one that textbooks could use to illustrate what mitochondria have done for us lately.

Biology Direct

This is the kind of tale a good business book can use to illustrate a titan's talents.

The New York Times

"I love Newark," he said, gazing out on a landscape that sociology textbooks might use to illustrate the concept of urban blight.

The New York Times

She then Googles the image that many textbooks use to illustrate pareidolia, an image of a mesa on Mars that we tend to see as a face: Many of the themes of the story cross in this moment, I think.

The New Yorker

Let me put it like this: The Sopranos had Pine Barrens, Buffy had The Body, The Wire had Middle Ground (the one where Stringer Bell exited) and Mad Men had The Suitcase: the episode you use to illustrate a show's greatness to novices and non-believers.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The accompanying pictures brought to mind one of those clips that documentary makers always use to illustrate how Kool Herc helped invent hip hop - him driving around the Bronx with outsized speakers sticking up from the back seat of his white convertible.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Striking artwork is used to illustrate the early years.

The New York Times - Arts

The figure can be used to illustrate both kinds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The stoop-shouldered scarecrow silhouette used to illustrate the article bears no resemblance to "Mrs. Powell".

The New York Times

They're not pawns used to illustrate some version of history or an ideology.

The Guardian - Film

These changes, and many others, are used to illustrate the unbridgeable divide between children and adults.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "use to illustrate", ensure the example you provide directly and clearly relates to the concept you are explaining for maximum clarity.

Common error

Avoid using examples that are too abstract or complicated. Your illustration should simplify, not confuse, the concept you're explaining when you "use to illustrate".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "use to illustrate" functions as an infinitive phrase indicating the purpose or intention behind an action. It introduces an example, explanation, or visual representation meant to clarify a concept or argument. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

31%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "use to illustrate" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed construction used to introduce examples that clarify a concept or argument. Ludwig AI analysis reveals its widespread usage across diverse fields like science, news, and formal business communications, making it a versatile tool for effective writing. To maximize its impact, make sure that the illustrations used are relevant and easy to understand. Alternatives such as "employ to demonstrate" or "utilize to explain" can be used depending on the context. Keep these points in mind and you'll be able to communicate effectively with "use to illustrate".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

employ to demonstrate

Replaces "use" with a more formal verb, emphasizing a deliberate showcasing.

utilize to explain

Similar to "employ", but focuses on making something understandable.

apply to show

Highlights the practical application of something to make a point.

showcase by

Emphasizes the act of displaying something to highlight its qualities.

present as an example

More explicit, clarifying that something is being offered as a specific instance.

demonstrate by means of

A formal alternative, emphasizing the method of demonstration.

cite as evidence

Indicates the use of something to support a claim or argument.

offer as a case in point

Introduces something as a typical or notable example.

elucidate with

Highlights the clarification aspect using a sophisticated verb.

exemplify through

Focuses on providing an instance that embodies a general principle.

FAQs

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

To effectively "use to illustrate", present a clear and concise example immediately after introducing the concept you want to clarify. The example should directly relate to the concept and make it easier to understand.

What are some alternatives to "use to illustrate"?

You can use alternatives like "employ to demonstrate", "utilize to explain", or "apply to show" depending on the specific context.

In what contexts is "use to illustrate" most appropriate?

"Use to illustrate" is suitable in various contexts, including academic writing, news reporting, and business communications, where clarifying concepts with examples is necessary. The appropriateness depends on the overall tone and formality of the writing.

How does "use to illustrate" differ from "used to illustrate"?

"Use to illustrate" typically introduces a present action or intention to clarify, while "used to illustrate" refers to a past action or a habitual practice of illustrating something.