Y06W13VC Word Roots — -spec / -spect- (look / see)

To look at something very carefully and thoroughly, especially to check its quality or condition.

Word Breakdown: -spect- (root meaning 'to look')

Example: The engineer was asked to inspect the building for any structural damage after the earthquake.

Synonyms: examine, check, scrutinise

Collocations: inspect closely, inspect for, carry out an inspection

A person who watches an event, game or performance without taking part.

Example: Thousands of spectators gathered to watch the community parade through the city centre.

Synonyms: observer, viewer, onlooker

Collocations: a spectator sport, spectators watching, as a spectator

A particular way of viewing or thinking about something, shaped by a person's experience or position.

Example: Reading from a different perspective helped students appreciate the complexity of the historical event.

Synonyms: viewpoint, standpoint, angle

Collocations: from the perspective of, a different perspective, gain perspective

To speak or act on behalf of someone or something. Also, to be a symbol or example of something.

Word family: represent (v.), representation (n.), representative (n./adj.)

Example: The graph was used to represent the change in temperature over a twelve-month period.

Synonyms: depict, show, symbolise

Collocations: represent a group, represent the data, fairly represented

To show or describe someone or something in a particular way, especially in art, writing or media.

Word family: portray (v.), portrayal (n.)

Example: The documentary portrayed the community's response to the disaster as resilient and organised.

Synonyms: depict, show, describe

Collocations: portray as, portray a character, portray realistically

To show, express or be a sign of something. Also, to think deeply about something.

Word family: reflect (v.), reflection (n.), reflective (adj.)

Example: The choice of language in the article reflects the author's strong viewpoint on the issue.

Synonyms: show, represent, indicate

Collocations: reflect on, reflect the views of, reflect a value

To show something clearly through evidence, actions or examples.

Word family: demonstrate (v.), demonstration (n.), demonstrable (adj.)

Example: The student demonstrated her understanding of the text by quoting directly and explaining the effect.

Synonyms: show, prove, illustrate

Collocations: demonstrate understanding, this demonstrates, clearly demonstrated

To make something clearer by using examples, diagrams or images.

Word family: illustrate (v.), illustration (n.), illustrative (adj.)

Example: The author used a vivid anecdote to illustrate the impact of the policy on everyday families.

Synonyms: show, demonstrate, explain

Collocations: illustrate a point, illustrate with examples, clearly illustrates

‘This shows’ introduces what evidence, an example or a detail proves or reveals.

Example: The character helps others even when it is difficult. This shows kindness and courage.

Synonyms: this demonstrates, this proves, this reveals

Collocations: this shows that; this shows evidence of; this clearly shows