What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
explanatory
Example
The teacher gave an explanatory lecture on the topic. [explanatory: adjective]
Example
Can you provide an explanatory note for this section of the report? [explanatory: noun]
illustrative
Example
The chart was illustrative of the company's growth over the past year. [illustrative: adjective]
Example
She used an illustrative story to emphasize her point. [illustrative: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Explanatory is more commonly used than illustrative in academic or technical writing, while illustrative is more commonly used in creative writing or storytelling.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between explanatory and illustrative?
Explanatory is typically associated with a formal or technical tone, while illustrative can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wider range of situations.
