Demonstrate: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in formal or educational settings to present evidence, show how something works, or prove a point.

• The teacher will demonstrate the experiment in front of the class.
• He needs to demonstrate his skills to get the promotion.

A broad term that can be used in many situations to mean making something visible or noticeable, usually in informal or everyday settings.

• Can you show me how to use this app?
• He wants to show his new car to his friends.

Often used to refer to showing something publicly or arranging items for visual attention. It is common in retail, museums, or exhibitions.

• The store window will display the latest collection.
• The museum will display ancient artifacts from Egypt.

Frequently used in the context of art galleries, museums, and public presentations, where items are shown for viewing and examination.

• The artist will exhibit her new paintings at the gallery.
• The science fair will exhibit projects from students.

Use 'demonstrate' when showing or proving something through reasoning, examples, or experiments. It is commonly used in educational, scientific, or craft contexts.

• The teacher demonstrated how to solve the math problem
• Scientists demonstrated the effectiveness of the new drug in clinical trials

Use 'illustrate' when providing visual or detailed examples to explain or clarify something. It's often used in educational, artistic, or explanatory contexts.

• The book uses pictures to illustrate the main character’s journey
• She illustrated her point with several graphs

Use 'reveal' when uncovering something that was previously hidden or unknown, often related to information or truths. It can be used in both casual and formal settings.

• The magician revealed his secrets at the end of the show
• The investigation revealed several important facts

Use 'manifest' when referring to something that becomes clear, obvious, or demonstrated by actions or events. Often used in formal or literary contexts.

• His talents began to manifest at a very young age
• The symptoms of the disease manifested themselves within a few days

Use when you want to show something clearly by giving proof or evidence. It can be used in educational or scientific contexts.

• The teacher will demonstrate the experiment
• The data clearly demonstrate the problem

Use when talking about expressing strong disagreement or disapproval, often in a public and organized manner. It can have a negative connotation if associated with violent actions.

• People gathered to protest against the new law
• They organized a protest in front of the company’s headquarters

Use when referring to a large gathering of people, usually to show support for a cause or a person. It often implies speeches, banners, and organized activities.

• The politician held a rally to gain support
• Fans gathered in the park for a rally after the victory

Use when talking about a group of people walking together to show their support or opposition to something. Often associated with a sense of unity or purpose.

• We will march to the city square to demand justice
• Thousands participated in the peace march