1
Core logical function
Introduce an example that makes a general point clearer.
Example
Urban heat can persist after sunset. To illustrate, city-centre temperatures remained high until midnight.
to illustrate
/tuː ˈɪləstreɪt/ · too IL-uh-straytexample transition
Introduce an example that makes a general point clearer.
Use to illustrate to express this relationship precisely: introduce an example that makes a general point clearer.
What to illustrate Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Sentence connection
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
To illustrate, the author compares two villages with similar rainfall but different soils.
3
Argument-level effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
Some seeds travel remarkable distances; to illustrate, coconut seeds can cross oceans.
Use to illustrate Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Urban heat can persist after sunset. To illustrate, city-centre temperatures remained high until midnight.
To illustrate, the author compares two villages with similar rainfall but different soils.
Some seeds travel remarkable distances; to illustrate, coconut seeds can cross oceans.
Precision Matters
To illustrate overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
to illustrate
vs.Means introduce an example that makes a general point clearer.
for example
Means introduce an illustration that supports, clarifies, or demonstrates a broader statement.
to illustrate
vs.Means introduce an example that makes a general point clearer.
for instance
Means introduce a particular case that illustrates a general point.
to illustrate
vs.Means introduce an example that makes a general point clearer.
in particular
Means single out one especially relevant member, feature, or example from a broader group.
to illustrate
vs.Means introduce an example that makes a general point clearer.
specifically
Means identify an exact detail, case, feature, or formulation within a broader statement.
Test to illustrate in Context
The second sentence supplies a concrete example of the general claim.
1
The material changes colour in acidic conditions. ___, a blue strip turns red when dipped in vinegar.