"indicate" vs "illustrate"

Question

"indicate" vs "illustrate"

Both 'indicate' and 'illustrate' are correct words, but they are used in different contexts. 'Indicate' is used to show or suggest something, while 'illustrate' is used to provide examples or make something clear by using pictures, diagrams, or examples.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

Use 'indicate' when you want to show or suggest something, often without providing detailed examples or explanations.

Examples:

The map indicates the location of the nearest gas station.
His behavior indicates that he is not happy with the situation.

Alternatives:

suggest
show
point out
signify
demonstrate

Use 'illustrate' when you want to provide examples or make something clear by using pictures, diagrams, or examples.

Examples:

Let me illustrate my point with a simple example.
The book is well-illustrated with colorful pictures.

Alternatives:

demonstrate
clarify
explain with examples
depict
elaborate

Answer 1

indicate

This is a correct and commonly used word in English.

Answer 2

illustrate

This is a correct and commonly used word in English.

"indicate" vs "illustrate"

indicate

illustrate

Related Comparisons