Definition

Verb phrase: 1. To describe something vividly, creating a clear mental image: To use words to depict a scene, situation, or concept so clearly that the listener or reader can easily visualize or understand it. 2. To suggest or imply a particular idea or feeling: To give an impression or convey a specific understanding through description or evidence.

Usage

This phrase is used to explain how verbal or written description creates understanding. It often precedes of to specify what is being described. * The author paints a picture of a bustling 19th-century market. * The data paints a picture of a company in serious financial trouble. * He asked her to paint a picture of her typical day.

Examples

• The witness's testimony painted a picture of a chaotic and frightening scene.
• These financial reports paint a bleak picture for the next quarter.
• She painted a vivid picture of her childhood home, making me feel I had been there.
• The documentary paints a disturbing picture of political corruption.

Advanced Usage

• To paint a clear/rosy/bleak/grim picture: The phrase is frequently modified by an adjective () to specify the nature of the description.
  • The inspector's report painted a grim picture of safety standards at the factory.
• To paint a picture of [something] as [adjective]: This structure is used to characterize the subject of the description.
  • The article paints a picture of the CEO as an innovative but ruthless leader.

Variants and Related Words

• Depict (verb): To represent or show something in a picture or story.
• Portray (verb): To describe or represent someone or something in a particular way.
• Evoke (verb): To bring a feeling, memory, or image into the mind.
• Conjure up (phrasal verb): To create a vivid image or idea in the mind.

Synonyms

• Describe vividly
• Depict
• Portray
• Convey an image of
• Evoke

Related Idioms

• A picture is worth a thousand words: This idiom highlights the power of visual imagery, which is the conceptual opposite of using many words to "paint a picture."
• Paint someone/something in a good/bad light: To describe someone or something in a way that makes them seem good or bad.
  • The biography paints the former president in a very favorable light.

Verb

1. call to mind
   • this remark evoked sadness