What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
illume
Example
The fireworks illumed the night sky. [illume: verb]
Example
The sun's rays illumed the room, casting a warm glow. [illumed: past tense]
illuminate
Example
The lamp illuminated the dark room. [illuminate: verb]
Example
The professor's lecture illuminated the complex topic. [illuminated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Illuminate is more commonly used than illume in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between illume and illuminate?
Illuminate is more formal than illume.