What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
describe
Example
Can you describe the suspect's appearance to me? [describe: verb]
Example
The author describes the setting in great detail. [describes: present tense]
depict
Example
The painting depicts a beautiful sunset over the ocean. [depicts: verb]
Example
The movie depicts the struggles of a young couple in love. [depicts: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Describe is more commonly used than depict in everyday language, as it is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts. Depict is more commonly used in artistic or creative contexts, such as literature, art, and film.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between describe and depict?
Both describe and depict can be used in formal and informal contexts, but describe is more neutral in tone and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
