Depict: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'depict' when you want to describe something in words or through visual art, typically focusing on the detail and accuracy of the representation.

• The artist skillfully depicted the bustling market scene.
• The novel depicts the struggles of growing up in a small town.

Use 'portray' when describing how someone or something is represented, often concerning character, behavior, or emotions. This term is frequently associated with literature, film, and theater.

• The actor skillfully portrayed the complexity of the character.
• The film portrays the impacts of war on ordinary people.

Use 'illustrate' when you want to explain or clarify something, often with the help of pictures, diagrams, or examples.

• The teacher used charts to illustrate the concept of supply and demand.
• The children's book is beautifully illustrated with colorful drawings.

Use 'represent' when you want to imply standing in for something or someone, or to show or symbolize something. It is often used in formal or abstract contexts.

• The statue represents freedom and resilience.
• In the painting, the dark clouds represent a looming threat.

Use 'show' when presenting something to someone, whether it's an object, a demonstration, or information. It is a more general term that can be used in both casual and formal contexts.

• Please show me how to use this machine.
• The graph shows the company's growth over the past year.

Used when illustrating or showing something visually or in detail, often in art or literature.

• The mural depicts scenes from the city's history.
• The novel depicts rural life in vivid detail.

Used when giving an account or explanation of something, focusing on the specifics and details.

• Can you describe what happened at the meeting?
• She described the new project with enthusiasm.

Used when showing or describing someone or something in a particular way, often in art, film, or literature.

• The actor portrays the character with great depth.
• The artist portrays the struggles of everyday life.

Used when showing something in a certain way or acting as a symbol of something.

• The dove represents peace in many cultures.
• The model represents the architect's vision of the building.

Used when creating a detailed and vivid account of a situation, often metaphorically.

• He painted a picture of a perfect holiday destination.
• The report paints a grim picture of the current economy.