What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
portrayed
Example
The actor portrayed the villain as cunning and manipulative. [portrayed: verb]
Example
The artist portrayed the subject with vivid colors and bold brushstrokes. [portrayed: verb]
Example
The article portrayed the company's actions as unethical and harmful. [portrayed: verb]
depict
Example
The film depicts the city as a bustling metropolis full of life. [depicts: verb]
Example
The author depicts the protagonist as a brave and determined hero. [depicts: verb]
Example
The graph depicts the relationship between income and education level. [depicts: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Depict is more commonly used than portrayed in everyday language. Depict is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while portrayed is less common and has a more specific usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between portrayed and depict?
Both portrayed and depict are formal words that are commonly used in literature, art, and media. However, depict is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.