What does “Shed Some Light” mean? The English idiomatic saying “shred some light” may be a phrase that you encounter often in everyday conversation and writing. Here you will find the meaning of this phrase and the information regarding its origin. You will also find examples of how to properly use this phrase in conversations/statements and discover some alternative ways you can say this phrase while still conveying the same meaning.
Shed Some Light
Shed Some Light Meaning
The idiomatic phrase “shed some light” means to make something less confusing through a further explanation to make it clear.
Origin of this idiomatic expression
The idiom “shed some light” originated in Europe sometime before the invention of electricity. Before this modern invention, people would use light from candles to see around their homes in the dark. This became known as “shedding light.” The light from the candle provided a way for them to see clearly in the dark. The phrase was generalized later to include the meaning of making any situation clear or well defined.
“Shed Some Light” Examples
Example Statements
A statement made by a local police officer after apprehending and a suspicious person.
- “I want to make everyone aware that Mr. Watson was bought in for questioning but was released because he was not involved in the crime. However, he was able to shed some light on the situation and we now have the names of everyone that was involved.”
A statement made by a celebrity during an interview on the red carpet.
- “I wish I could shed some light on the situation, but I honestly have no clue why she has such an issue with me. We have never done a project together that I can recall.”
Example Conversations
A conversation between a teacher and his student.
- Student: Mr. Brown? I am having difficulty understanding all these math concepts and I am struggling.
- Teacher: Well, Lucy, come in a bit early tomorrow and I’ll give you some extra help. Maybe together we can shed some light on the situation for you.
A conversation between a mother and her daughter.
- Mother: Maybe you can shed some light on something for me since I am not as young as you are.
- Daughter: Sure mom, I can try and help you out. What’s up?
- Mother: Earlier you were texting me and you said rofl. What on earth does that mean?
- Daughter: Mom, it means rolling on the floor laughing.
- Mother: Oh okay. You know me, dear old mom, I am not up to date on all this lingo.
Other Ways to Say “Shed Some Light”
Like all idiomatic phrases, there are several different ways to say “shed some light” and still convey the same meaning. Other ways you can say this phrase include:
- Illuminate
- Help me understand
- Help me see more clearly
- Explain
- Make it clear
Shed Some Light | Picture
Last Updated on March 19, 2020