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demonstrate
/ˈdɛmənˌstreɪt/
What does "demonstrate" mean?
show clearlyThe scientist demonstrated the experiment to the students.
The scientist showed the experiment clearly to the students.
How to use "demonstrate" correctly?
formal
To show or prove something clearly through actions, examples, or evidence.
The teacher demonstrated the math problem on the board.
The teacher showed how to solve the math problem step by step.
The product demonstration highlighted its key features.
The product showcase clearly presented its main features.
Often used in educational, scientific, or professional contexts to emphasize clarity and proof.
formal
To participate in a public display or protest to express a point of view.
Thousands demonstrated against the new policy in the capital.
Thousands publicly protested the new policy in the capital.
Common in social and political contexts to indicate collective action.
formal
To show that one possesses a particular skill, quality, or ability.
She demonstrated great leadership during the crisis.
She showed clearly that she had strong leadership skills during the crisis.
Often used in performance reviews or evaluations.
Collocations
demonstrate againstto protest publicly against somethingdemonstrate how toto show the method or process of doing somethingproduct demonstrationa showcase of a product's features
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Use 'demonstrate' for clear proof or teaching
Use 'demonstrate' when you want to emphasize that something is being shown clearly to prove a point, teach a skill, or illustrate a concept. Avoid using it for vague or unclear presentations.
Gold Rule
Follow 'demonstrate' with evidence or process
Always pair 'demonstrate' with a clear method, example, or proof. For instance, 'demonstrate the theory' is vague, but 'demonstrate the theory with an experiment' is clear.
Word Origin
From Latin *demonstrare* (to point out, show), from *de-* (completely) + *monstrare* (to show). First recorded in English in the late 16th century.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both academic and everyday contexts. Often followed by 'how to' or 'that' to indicate the method or proof being shown.
Word Breakdown
de-
completely
prefix-monstrare
to show
rootEnglish Dictionary