Demonstrates – Definition and Synonyms
Demonstrates: Definition and Part of Speech
The word demonstrates is primarily used as a verb. It means to show or illustrate something clearly through evidence, examples, or actions. The action of demonstrating involves making something evident or comprehensible by providing proof, illustrations, or concrete instances.
The infinitive form of the word is “to demonstrate.” When using different tenses, it can take forms like “demonstrates” (present tense), “demonstrated” (past tense), and “will demonstrate” (future tense).
Core Synonyms
Below is a table of synonyms for demonstrates, including brief definitions, example sentences, and the typical style or register where each synonym might be most appropriate.
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exhibits | Shows or displays something prominently. | “The museum exhibits artifacts from ancient civilizations.” | Formal, Academic |
| Proves | Establishes the truth or existence of something through evidence. | “Her research proves that climate change is accelerating.” | Formal, Business |
| Illustrates | Clarifies or makes something clear by providing an example. | “The diagram illustrates how the engine functions.” | Academic, Informal |
| Confirms | Verifies and supports as true or real through evidence. | “His testimony confirms her account of the events.” | Formal, Legal |
| Shows | Makes evident or visible by means of examples or actions. | “The experiment shows that temperature affects solubility rates.” | Casual, Academic |
Usage Notes
Each synonym for demonstrates can be used in different contexts and conveys slightly varied nuances:
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Exhibits: This is often used in formal settings such as museums or galleries where items are displayed for viewing. It implies a public or formal show.
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Proves: In business, legal documents, or scientific research, proving something means providing evidence that conclusively establishes a fact.
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Illustrates: Typically found in academic writing, illustrations make abstract ideas more tangible by giving specific examples.
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Confirms: Used where verification is necessary—such as in legal contexts or when validating hypotheses—it implies corroboration of existing knowledge.
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Shows: A versatile synonym that suits both formal and informal settings. It’s often used in everyday language to indicate a visible demonstration.
Common Pitfalls
When using synonyms for demonstrates, it is important not to confuse them with words that have different implications:
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Exhibits should not be mistaken for merely showing; it has a nuance of public presentation.
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Proves involves evidence and certainty, unlike simply indicating or suggesting.
Understanding these nuances can prevent miscommunication in various contexts where precision is essential.
Final Recap
In summary, the verb “demonstrates” can be replaced with synonyms such as exhibits, proves, illustrates, confirms, and shows based on context. Each synonym carries its unique shade of meaning and is suitable for different registers—from formal to informal use cases. To become comfortable using these terms effectively, practice integrating them into sentences or conversations, paying attention to the specific context and desired nuance.
Encourage readers to engage with these synonyms actively by writing their own example sentences or trying them out in dialogues, fostering a deeper understanding of their applications and subtleties.