demonstrate
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
to show that something is true by giving proof or evidence.
to establish the validity of a proposition or theory through evidence or logical reasoning.
Simple“The latest research results demonstrate that the new medicine is safe for children.”
In context“The study fails to demonstrate a significant correlation between the two variables, suggesting that further longitudinal research is required.”
UsageOften takes a 'that' clause or a direct object.
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
to show someone how to do something or how a machine works.
to explain or illustrate by experiment, example, or practical application.
Simple“The chef will demonstrate how to make the perfect pasta dough.”
In context“The technician spent the afternoon demonstrating the new software's capabilities to the administrative staff to ensure a smooth transition.”
UsageCommonly used with 'how to'.
Synonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
to join a large group of people in public to show you disagree with something.
to participate in a public meeting or march to express political views or protest against a specific issue.
Simple“Thousands of students gathered in the city centre to demonstrate against the new law.”
In context“Citizens have the constitutional right to demonstrate peacefully, provided they do not obstruct the flow of essential traffic.”
UsageOften used with the preposition 'against'.
Usage demonstrated a new · demonstrate their ability · analysis demonstrate
“This study demonstrates that it is technically possible to directly shut down the major dog allergen in a living animal.”
“Not always, as demonstrated by this thought-provoking but ultimately not particularly revealing documentary about Norwegian mountaineer Kristin Harila.”
Borrowed from Latin dēmonstrātus, the perfect passive participle of dēmonstrō (“to show, point at”), see -ate (verb-forming suffix). Cognate with French démontrer.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.