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to shed light on something
01
to provide clarification, understanding, or insight into a topic, situation, or problem
Idiom
What is the origin of the idiom "shed light on something" and when to use it?
The idiom "shed light on something" comes from the literal act of illuminating something to make it visible or clearer. Historically, before the advent of electric lighting, people used candles, lanterns, or other sources of light to see in the dark. This practical need to illuminate objects and surroundings naturally extended into metaphorical use. Thus, "shedding light" on a subject came to mean providing insight or clarity, helping to understand or reveal information that was previously obscure or hidden.
Exempel
Historical phonetics studies how speech sounds shift over time, shedding light on the intricate patterns of language change.
The literate journalist's investigative reporting sheds light on important societal issues, sparking public discourse and debate.
Historians unearthed new documents that shed light on the events of the Civil War.
The researchers found evidence of polyandry in ancient texts, shedding light on the diversity of human marital practices.
As the investigation progressed, new evidence began to emerge, shedding light on the mystery.