These verbs usually have the author as their subject; some can also have a textual element as their subject.
Verbs
describe
depict
present
portray
characterize (specific to character description)
Examples
[Author] describes the character’s loneliness to emphasize…
Portraying the character’s loneliness, [Author] emphasizes…
[Author] initially characterizes Ralph as immature to suggest…
Verbs
use
employ
Examples
Using visual imagery, [Author] depicts…
[Author] employs visual imagery to depict…
Verbs
create
construct
frame
Examples
[Author] creates a world in which…
Framing this conversation with ominous setting imagery, [Author] suggests…
Two arguments frame this chapter, highlighting…
Verbs
juxtapose
Examples
[Author] juxtaposes dark and light imagery to highlight…
These verbs can have the author or a textual element as their subject.
Verbs
suggest
emphasize
highlight
hint
illustrate
imply
reinforce
reveal
Examples with Author as Subject
Through visual imagery, [Author] suggests…
[Author] uses symbolism to highlight…
By describing the setting so ominously, [Author] reinforces…
[Author] uses formal diction to illustrate…
Examples with Device as Subject
This visual imagery suggests…
This symbolism highlights…
The ominous setting description reinforces…
The diction is formal throughout, illustrating…
These verbs can only have a textual element as their subject.
Verbs
represent
symbolize
embody
Examples
The wedding ring symbolizes their relationship.
The dark forest represents mystery and danger.
Verbs
exemplify
Examples
This dialogue exemplifies the ongoing conflict between the characters, as they later…
Verbs
parallel
recall
reflect
Examples
This interaction parallels a moment earlier in the novel when…
These verbs usually have the author as their subject; some can also have a textual element as their subject.
Verbs
define
enumerate
identify
list
Examples
[Author] defines ____ as …
[Author] lists …
Verbs
advocate
argue
assert
claim
defend
express
propose
state
Examples
[Author’s Name] asserts that…
[Author’s Name] proposes the idea that…
Verbs
analyze
articulate
compare
contrast
convey
demonstrate
discuss
elucidate
explain
Examples
[Author] then articulates her reasons for believing…
[Author] explains the causes of…
Verbs
critique
debate
disagree
disprove
refute
question
Examples
To critique this perspective, [Author] …
[Author] refutes the assertion that...
Verbs
build on
clarify
develop
enhance
expand on
substantiate
support
Examples
Supporting this premise, [Author’s Name] lists…
The following examples clarify this statement by…
Verbs
conclude
confirm
establish
prove
validate
verify
Examples
After establishing this fact, [Author] then proposes…
[Author] concludes that…