shed light on

1. Also, throw light on. Clarify or explain, as in I was hoping the professor would shed light on how he arrived at his theory, or Can anyone throw some light on where these plants came from? Originally, from about 1200, these expressions were used literally, in the sense of “illuminate,” but they soon were used figuratively as well.

Example Sentences

None of the letters shed light on the source of Epstein's wealth, however, or how he became so close to powerful figures and influential businessmen.

From BBC

Public reaction to Mr Thompson's killing has shed light on privatised healthcare, and some have celebrated the accused murderer as a folk hero, with supporters gathering outside the courthouse during his hearings.

From BBC

“The content of this book is crucial, as it aims to shed light on the systemic failures that allow the trafficking of vulnerable individuals across borders,” Giuffre wrote.

From Salon

"The content of this book is crucial, as it aims to shed light on the systemic failures that allow the trafficking of vulnerable individuals across borders," the email said.

From BBC

Such efforts help shed light on a visionary movement that has been severely underappreciated due to, among other things, its intentionally out-of-the-mainstream nature and its practitioners’ distance — both literally and figuratively — to power.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• analyze 
• clear up 
• define 
• formulate 
• interpret 
• resolve 
• simplify 
• spell out