paint a picture (of something)
Meaning(s)
1. describe or show something in a particular way
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
paint a rosy/grim picture of the situation
Analysis
To paint a picture of something is an idiom which means to describe something or to create an idea of something in a descriptive or elaborate way which allows the listener to visualise what you are speaking about. To paint a picture can also mean to describe or show something in a particular light or in a specific way, for example; 'This report does not paint a positive picture for our customers'.
Social Examples (Advance)
- In his book, the author paints a disturbing picture of what life in that country was like during the civil war.
- My mother's description of what school was like when she was young does not paint a pretty picture.
Professional Examples (Advance)
- Our last financial results painted a pretty grim picture of the future of the business, but we have bounced back since then.
- The CEO annoyed everyone at the AGM by painting a rosy a picture of the company despite the impending job cuts.
- Kevin didn't exactly paint a flattering picture when speaking about his boss. I think it's only a matter of time before he takes up a position elsewhere.