Definitions
- Describing something in detail, using sensory language to create a vivid image. - Providing a detailed account of something, often with the goal of creating a mental picture for the reader or listener. - Giving a thorough and accurate portrayal of something through words or other means.
- Providing an explanation or clarification of something that may be difficult to understand. - Offering additional information or context to help someone understand a concept or idea. - Giving a detailed account of something with the goal of helping someone understand it better.
List of Similarities
- 1Both involve providing information about something.
- 2Both aim to help the reader or listener understand something better.
- 3Both can be used in writing or speaking contexts.
- 4Both require clear and concise language to effectively convey information.
- 5Both can be used to enhance communication and improve understanding.
What is the difference?
- 1Purpose: Descriptive aims to create a vivid image or portrayal of something, while explanatory aims to clarify or explain something.
- 2Focus: Descriptive focuses on sensory language and creating a mental picture, while explanatory focuses on providing additional information or context.
- 3Audience: Descriptive is often used in creative writing or literature, while explanatory is often used in technical or academic writing.
- 4Tone: Descriptive can be more subjective and emotional, while explanatory is typically more objective and factual.
- 5Structure: Descriptive often uses figurative language and imagery, while explanatory often uses definitions, examples, or comparisons.
Remember this!
Descriptive and explanatory are both used to provide information about something, but they have different purposes and focuses. Descriptive aims to create a vivid image or portrayal of something, using sensory language to enhance the reader's experience. Explanatory aims to clarify or explain something, providing additional information or context to help the reader understand better.