demonstrate
DEHM-uhn-strayt
Demonstrate (verb) means to show someone how to do something by performing it. Example: “The instructor demonstrated how to tie a bowline before letting us try.”
verb
1
To show someone how to do something by performing it.
"The instructor demonstrated how to tie a bowline before letting us try."
"The chef demonstrated how to fillet a fish."
"She demonstrated the new software to the sales team."
2
To prove or make clear through evidence or example.
"The results clearly demonstrate that regular exercise improves mood in most people."
"The study demonstrates a clear link between sleep and memory."
"His calm response demonstrated real professionalism under pressure."
3
To take part in a public protest.
"Students gathered in the square to demonstrate against the rise in tuition fees."
"Workers have the right to demonstrate peacefully outside the factory gates."
"Thousands demonstrated outside parliament against the new law."
How to use demonstrate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo show something clearly, whether by proving a point, giving a practical example, or protesting publicly.
Common pairings
demonstrate a skill
demonstrate that
demonstrate against
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- demonstrates
- Past tense
- demonstrated
- Archaic forms
- demonstratest, demonstratedst, demonstrateth
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The instructor _____ how to tie a bowline before letting us try.
Etymology
From Latin dēmōnstrāre, "to point out or show clearly," from de- plus mōnstrāre, "to show."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for demonstrate
See all rhymes for demonstrate →Frequently asked questions
What does “demonstrate” mean?
The word “demonstrate” means to show someone how to do something by performing it. In plain terms, to show something clearly, whether by proving a point, giving a practical example, or protesting publicly.
How do you pronounce “demonstrate”?
“Demonstrate” is pronounced DEHM-uhn-strayt (/ˈdɛm.ənˌstɹeɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “demonstrate” in a sentence?
Here is “demonstrate” used in a sentence: “The chef demonstrated how to fillet a fish.”
What part of speech is “demonstrate”?
“Demonstrate” is a verb.
Where does the word “demonstrate” come from?
The word “demonstrate” comes from Latin. From Latin dēmōnstrāre, "to point out or show clearly," from de- plus mōnstrāre, "to show.".
Is “demonstrate” a common word?
“Demonstrate” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “demonstrate” have?
“Demonstrate” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to show someone how to do something by performing it.
What is the difference between demonstrate and show?
Both can mean to let someone see something, but demonstrate often implies a deliberate, step-by-step display, such as showing how a task is done. Show is broader and more general, while demonstrate stresses proving or teaching through a clear performance or example.
What is the difference between demonstrate and prove?
To prove is to establish that something is true beyond doubt. To demonstrate can mean to prove through evidence or example, but it also carries the everyday sense of showing someone how to do something by performing it, which prove does not.
When should you use demonstrate instead of explain?
Use demonstrate when you physically show how something works or is done, letting others see it in action. Use explain when you describe it in words. Demonstrating relies on performing or displaying, while explaining relies on telling.
What is the difference between demonstrate and illustrate?
To illustrate is to make something clearer with an example, picture, or comparison. To demonstrate is to show or prove it directly, either by performing the action or by providing evidence. Demonstrating is more hands-on, while illustrating clarifies through examples.
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