English Reference
Adjective

enlightening

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˌɛnˈɫaɪtənɪŋ/ UK /ɛnlˈaɪtənɪŋ/ en·light·en·ing

adj.giving you more information or a better understanding of a topic. You use this to describe a talk, book, or experience that makes something clear.

adj.providing spiritual or intellectual insight; clarifying a previously obscure or complex subject. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'be', 'find', or 'seem'.


SIMPLE

The documentary about space was very enlightening.

CONTEXTUAL

I found the seminar on local history quite enlightening, as it explained many things I never knew about my town.

COMPLEX

The keynote speaker provided an enlightening perspective on the intersection of ethics and technology, challenging the audience to reconsider their daily digital habits.

Usage

Often follows a linking verb or modifies a noun related to communication, such as 'conversation', 'experience', or 'book'.

These stories would not only provide entertaining and enlightening reading, they could serve as a gateway to discovering the rich literature of a much-overlooked continent.

The Guardian· 5 Sept 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated