PhrasesHub

painting a picture

    Definitions

      • describing something vividly
        To vividly describe or depict something in great detail, often used to create a clear mental image for others

      • deceiving or misrepresenting
        To present a false or misleading portrayal of a situation, person, or event, often to make it seem better or worse than it actually is

    Examples of painting a picture

    • The writer painted a vivid picture of the bustling city with her words, as if I could see every neon sign and hear every honking car.

      This idiom is used metaphorically to describe how the writer used language to create a detailed and lifelike image in the reader's mind. Just as a painter uses colors and brushstrokes to create a physical representation of a scene, a skilled writer can use words to do the same.

    • When my five-year-old daughter told me about her favorite place at the zoo, she painted a picture of the animals, the sounds, and the smells that made the experience so special to her.

      In this example, the child's description of the zoo created such a vivid image in the listener's mind that it was like a painting coming to life.

    • After listening to the speaker's passionate speech, I felt like I was standing in the middle of the revolution, surrounded by people fighting for a better future.

      The idiom is used in this example to describe how the speaker's words created a sense of immersion and engagement, making the listener feel like they were experiencing the revolution firsthand.

    • The artist's painting seemed to tell a story - each brushstroke brought me closer to the people and places depicted on the canvas.

      This idiom is used in this example to describe how the painting itself seemed to have a narrative quality, with each element contributing to a larger whole. It's like the painting was a picture book, with every detail contributing to the story.

    • The speaker used vivid language and descriptive details to paint a picture of his childhood memories in the countryside.

      In this example, the speaker is comparing the way he described his childhood memories to the act of painting a picture. By using colors, textures, and specific details, he created a visual image in the listener's mind, much like an artist uses a canvas and brush to create a painting.

    • Through her words, the author painted a chilling portrait of a society in turmoil.

      Here, the author's use of language and descriptive language helps to create a vivid image or picture that conveys the chaos and violence present in the society being described.

    • The politician's speeches were masterful works of art, painting a picture of a brighter future for their constituents.

      In this example, the speaker is suggesting that the politician's speeches were so effective at persuading and inspiring their audience that they could be compared to a work of art. By using language that creates a mental image of a better future, the politician is able to engage and motivate their listeners.

    • She painted a picture of her dream vacation, complete with palm trees, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

      This example involves using vivid and specific details to create a detailed mental image of a vacation destination. By describing the sights, sounds, and sensations of this dream vacation, the speaker is able to transport her audience to this tropical location.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "painting a picture" can be used to vividly describe something or to deceive by presenting a false portrayal. When someone says they are "painting a picture," they may be providing elaborate details to help listeners visualize a situation or they may be manipulating information to mislead others. It's important to consider the context in which this idiom is used to fully understand its intended meaning.

    Origin of "painting a picture"

    The origin of the idiom "painting a picture" can be traced back to the art of painting itself. In art, painters use colors and brush strokes to create detailed and vivid images that convey a message or evoke emotions. When this concept is applied to language, "painting a picture" means using words to create a mental image in the minds of others.

    Over time, the idiom has evolved to include the idea of deception or misrepresentation. Just as a painter can enhance or alter a scene to make it more visually appealing, people may use words to manipulate the truth and present a distorted version of reality. This dual meaning of the idiom highlights the power of language to both accurately describe and creatively mislead.