What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
illumed
Example
The stage was illumed with bright lights during the concert. [illumed: verb]
Example
The painting was illumed by the sunlight streaming through the window. [illumed: past participle]
illuminate
Example
The lamp will illuminate the room when turned on. [illuminate: verb]
Example
The fireworks illuminated the night sky with bright colors. [illuminated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Illuminate is more commonly used than illumed in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between illumed and illuminate?
Illuminate is more formal than illumed and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
