How to Say "to illustrate" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “to illustrate” is “ilustrar” — B1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Ella va a ilustrar el nuevo libro de cuentos.
She is going to illustrate the new storybook.
El artista ilustró la portada con colores vivos.
The artist illustrated the cover with bright colors.
Estamos buscando a alguien para ilustrar el manual técnico.
We are looking for someone to illustrate the technical manual.
Using 'con' for tools
When saying what you used to illustrate something, use 'con' (with). Example: 'Ilustrar con acuarelas' (To illustrate with watercolors).
Direct Action
This verb acts directly on the object. You don't need a preposition like 'a' unless you are illustrating a person (which is rare in the drawing sense).
Ilustrar vs. Dibujar
Mistake: “Using 'ilustrar' for a simple doodle.”
Correction: Use 'dibujar' for just drawing. 'Ilustrar' usually implies the drawing is part of a larger project, like a story or a magazine.
Other Meanings of “ilustrar”
“ilustrar” can also mean:
- to clarify an idea with examples(B2, formal)
Related Translations
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