WordGarden.iographically
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɡrˈæfɪkli/
US
- /ˈɡræfɪkli/
Meanings
Adverb
in a visual form, especially with pictures, diagrams, or charts
in a very vivid or explicit way
Beyond the definition
To describe something graphically often means to do so in strong, vivid detail, so clearly that you can almost see it in your mind. It does not always mean "with a drawing," though it can mean that too. Think of a news report describing a scene: if the reporter speaks graphically, the events feel sharp and real.
The word is also used for things shown in a visual way. A chart can graphically show data, meaning it explains something through images, diagrams, or other visual forms. In some contexts, though, graphically suggests details that are very explicit or disturbing, especially in reports about violence, injury, or crime.
The word graphically possesses a fascinating duality. At its core, it relates to visual representation—think graphs, charts, and illustrations. To say information is presented "graphically" usually means it is shown in picture form, making complex data much easier to digest. For example: "The report graphically illustrated the company's rapid growth over the last decade."
However, graphically also describes language that is incredibly vivid and detailed. This usage doesn't necessarily involve physical pictures at all. A writer might describe a battle scene graphically, using powerful, evocative words to paint a realistic and potentially unsettling picture of the conflict. In this sense, the "drawing" happens within the reader's imagination rather than on a page.
It is important to note that graphically often carries a heavy emotional weight. When used in the context of news or media, it frequently implies that a description is shockingly or disturbingly detailed. Reports about accidents or crimes are often said to be graphically told if they include explicit details that might be upsetting to the audience. This usage suggests the description is so intense that it leaves nothing to the imagination.
The origin of the word lies in the Greek "graphein," meaning "to write" or "to draw." Over centuries, it evolved to encompass both the literal act of visual depiction and the figurative act of painting pictures with words. Whether you are discussing a chart that maps out statistics or a story told with searing intensity, graphically always implies a strong, visual impact on the senses.
Examples
- 1
Charts
The app shows your weekly spending graphically, with colored charts and bars.
- 2
Whiteboard explanation
She explained the machine graphically on the whiteboard so everyone could follow the steps.
- 3
Police statement
The witness graphically described the accident to the police.
- Patterngraphically describe + event
describe it in very clear, vivid detail
- 4
Violent film
The film graphically depicts the violence of the war, so it may be hard to watch.
- Patterngraphically depict + violence/event
show it in a very detailed and often shocking way
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- viscerally
- luridly
- in detail
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- graphically describe
- graphically depicted
- graphically detailed
Word family
Explore
- vivid description
- explicit content
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- graphicallyadverb