Exemplify Meaning and Definition
Exemplify
Pronunciation
/ɛɡˈzɛmplɪfaɪ/
Part of Speech
Verb
Definition
To exemplify means to serve as an example or illustration of something; to represent or embody a particular quality, idea, or concept in a concrete or observable way.
Examples
1. “The teacher used a real-life scenario to exemplify the concept of gravity.”
2. “The artist’s work exemplifies the style of the Impressionist movement.”
Synonyms
1. Personify
2. Embellish
3. Exemplarize
Antonyms
1. Obscure
2. Conceal
Additional Information
Exemplify is a verb that is used to describe the act of providing an example or illustration of something. It can be used in various contexts, such as in education, art, or everyday conversation. For instance, a teacher might use a diagram to exemplify a complex concept, or an artist’s work might exemplify a particular style or movement. In a broader sense, exemplify can also refer to the idea of embodying or representing a particular quality or characteristic. For example, a person’s actions or behavior might exemplify their values or personality traits.
In literature and poetry, exemplify is often used to describe the way in which a character or event illustrates a particular theme or idea. For example, a novelist might use a character’s journey to exemplify the struggles of growing up or the importance of perseverance. In this sense, exemplify is used to highlight the ways in which a particular example or illustration can reveal deeper truths or insights.
In everyday conversation, exemplify is often used to describe the way in which someone or something serves as a model or example for others. For example, a person might say that a particular business or organization exemplifies a particular approach to management or customer service. In this sense, exemplify is used to highlight the ways in which a particular example or illustration can provide guidance or inspiration for others.
Etymology
The word “exemplify” comes from the Latin words “ex” (meaning “out” or “from”) and “emplum” (meaning “example” or “illustration”). The word has been used in English since the 15th century, and its meaning has remained relatively consistent over time.
Usage Notes
Exemplify is often used in formal or academic contexts, such as in essays or research papers. However, it can also be used in everyday conversation to describe the way in which someone or something serves as an example or illustration.
Cultural References
Exemplify has been used in various cultural contexts, such as in literature, art, and music. For example, the poet William Wordsworth used the word to describe the way in which nature can exemplify the beauty and power of the human experience.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Exemplify the concept” (meaning to provide an example or illustration of a particular idea or concept).
2. “Exemplify the style” (meaning to embody or represent a particular style or approach).
Collocations
1. Exemplify the idea
2. Exemplify the style
3. Exemplify the concept
Frequency of Use
Exemplify is a relatively uncommon word in everyday conversation, but it is often used in formal or academic contexts.
1. Exemplify
2. Exemplifi
3. Exemplifly