to illustrate
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to illustrate
To make something, often a complex matter, clear and understandable through examples, pictures, graphics, or comparisons.
Der Lehrer benutzte eine Grafik, um den Wasserkreislauf zu veranschaulichen.
The teacher used a graphic to illustrate the water cycle.
The verb 'veranschaulichen' (to illustrate) is derived from the adjective 'anschaulich' (clear, vivid). The prefix 'ver-' forms a verb here with the meaning 'to make something clear/vivid'.
Ein gutes Bild kann eine komplexe Idee schnell veranschaulichen.
A good picture can quickly illustrate a complex idea.
The prefix 'ver-' is inseparable. This means it remains firmly attached to the verb in all conjugated forms and sentence positions.
Er veranschaulichte seine Theorie mit einem Experiment.
He illustrated his theory with an experiment.
The verb is transitive and needs an accusative object (what is being illustrated?). The means used for this is often expressed with 'durch' (+ accusative) or 'mit' (+ dative).
Können Sie das Problem mit einem einfachen Beispiel veranschaulichen?
Can you illustrate the problem with a simple example?
to represent / portray / constitute
Both words fit a graphic or picture that shows a process. „Darstellen“ mainly refers to presenting the process, while „veranschaulichen“ emphasizes that it makes the process clearer and easier to understand. If the focus is only on the content shown, „darstellen“ fits; if the focus is on helping to explain it, use „veranschaulichen“.
Die Grafik veranschaulicht den schwierigen Ablauf mit einfachen Bildern.
The graphic illustrates the complicated process with simple pictures.
Die Grafik stellt den Ablauf des Versuchs auf einer Seite dar.
The graphic shows the experiment’s process on a single page.
