C1verb 5K

Depict

UK //dɪˈpɪkt// US //dɪˈpɪkt// Pronunciation

Definition

To represent or portray someone or something in art or writing.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To show something in a picture or description

Examples

• The mural depicts scenes from local history.
• The novel depicts a futuristic society where technology rules.
• In the painting, the artist chose to depict the struggle of the working class.
• This film aims to depict the realities of life during the war.
• He decided to depict his emotions through abstract art.

Usage notes

Use in artistic or literary contexts. Not commonly used in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

depict + object

Memory hint

Think of 'depict' as 'deep picture' to remember it's about showing images.

Collocations

• depict a scene
• depict a character
• depict emotions

Synonyms

• represent
• illustrate
• describe
• render
• portray

Antonyms

• conceal
• hide
• suppress

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'depicting' as a noun.
• Used incorrectly in passive constructions.
• Omitted 'object' in structure.