illustrate crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate guide to solving even the trickiest crossword puzzles. On this page, you'll find all possible answers for the clue "illustrate crossword clue", complete with explanations and categorized by letter count to help you quickly find the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "illustrate crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SHOW: To make evident or explain visually.
DRAW: To produce a picture or diagram by making lines and marks.
6 Letters
DEPICT: To portray in words or images.
7 Letters
PICTURE: To form a mental image of; to represent pictorially.
EXPLAIN: To make clear or intelligible.
9 Letters
EXEMPLIFY: To serve as a typical example of; to clarify by example.
ELUCIDATE: To make something clear; explain.
11 Letters
DEMONSTRATE: To show or prove by example, action, or experiment.
More About "illustrate crossword clue"
The clue "illustrate" in a crossword puzzle can be surprisingly versatile, leading to a range of potential answers. At its core, "illustrate" means to explain or make something clear, often by providing examples or visuals. This duality is what makes it a popular choice for crossword setters, as it allows for both literal and figurative interpretations.
When you encounter this clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it looking for a direct synonym for drawing or depicting something visually, such as 'DRAW' or 'DEPICT'? Or is it seeking a word that describes making a concept easier to understand through examples, like 'EXEMPLIFY' or 'ELUCIDATE'? The number of letters and any intersecting words will be crucial in determining the precise answer.
Understanding these nuances is key to mastering crosswords. By exploring the various facets of a clue like "illustrate", you not only find the solution for the current puzzle but also enhance your general crossword-solving skills, preparing you for future challenges.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always double-check the exact number of boxes available for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Look for Intersecting Clues: Letters from perpendicular words are your best friends. Even one confirmed letter can unlock a difficult clue like "illustrate".
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words, including "illustrate," have several meanings. If a direct synonym doesn't fit, think about alternative interpretations or less common uses of the word.
- Think About Context: Is the puzzle themed? Does the clue use any particular phrasing that might hint at a specific type of answer (e.g., a pun, an abbreviation)?
- Use a Thesaurus (or a Solver): If you're completely stuck, a thesaurus can provide synonyms, but a dedicated crossword solver like Crosswordanswer.co.uk can often give you the exact answer with its explanation.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can 'illustrate' have so many different answers in crosswords?
Crossword clues often rely on synonyms, antonyms, or multiple meanings of a word. 'Illustrate' can mean to show (SHOW), to draw (DRAW), to explain with examples (EXEMPLIFY), or to make clear (ELUCIDATE). The specific context of the puzzle, such as other intersecting words, will help narrow down the exact answer.
What's the difference between 'illustrate' and 'explain' in a crossword context?
While 'illustrate' often implies a visual explanation (e.g., DRAW, DEPICT, PICTURE), it can also mean to clarify through examples, which is a form of explanation (e.g., EXEMPLIFY, ELUCIDATE). 'Explain' is a broader term that can include verbal clarification without a visual component. The specific number of letters and other intersecting clues are key to distinguishing between these in a crossword.
How can I find the correct 'illustrate' answer if I'm stuck?
First, check the number of letters required. Then, look at any intersecting words you've already filled in; these will often reveal a specific letter that narrows down the options. Consider if the clue implies a visual (DRAW, DEPICT) or conceptual (EXEMPLIFY, ELUCIDATE) meaning. Finally, if you're still stuck, using a crossword solver like Crosswordanswer.co.uk can provide the exact answer and explanation.