Another Word for Demonstrate: 15 Synonyms with Examples
To demonstrate is to show clearly, by evidence or example, or to show how something works. A different word can make the claim stronger, softer or more practical.
As a verb: show clearly by evidence
As a verb: show how something works
- show
- present
- display
- model
- walk through
As a verb: protest publicly
- protest
- march
- rally
- picket
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- show
- Plainer and more common; often reads better in general writing.
- prove
- Stronger: leaves no reasonable doubt.
- establish
- Shows something is true so it can be relied on.
- illustrate
- Shows through an example rather than through proof.
- model
- Shows by doing, so others can copy, as teachers do.
- protest
- The political sense: people gather to show opposition.
Example sentences
- show: The trial showed that the new dressing healed wounds faster.
- prove: The receipt proved that she had paid on time.
- establish: Tests established that the water was safe to drink.
- illustrate: The story of one family illustrates the wider housing problem.
- model: The teacher modelled how to plan a paragraph before pupils tried it.
- protest: Hundreds of students protested outside the town hall.
Opposite of demonstrate
- disprove
- refute
- conceal
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “demonstrate”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: demo, exhibit, attest, certify, manifest, evidence
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “demonstrate”?
The most useful alternatives are “show”, “prove”, “establish”, “confirm”, “illustrate”. For the main sense (show clearly by evidence), “show” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “show” and “prove”?
show: Plainer and more common; often reads better in general writing. prove: Stronger: leaves no reasonable doubt.
What is the opposite of “demonstrate”?
Common antonyms are “disprove”, “refute”, “conceal”.