erhellend

Erhellend is a Dutch adjective meaning enlightening, illuminating, or edifying. It is used to describe information, experiences, or statements that clarify a topic, reveal new insights, or enhance understanding. The term emphasizes the revealing or clarifying quality of the subject, rather than merely being entertaining.

Etymology: The word derives from the Dutch verb erhellen, meaning to illuminate or brighten. The suffix -end forms adjectives from verbs, producing erhellend to describe something that illuminates or makes things clearer.

Usage: Erhellend is common in academic, journalistic, and educational contexts. It can describe articles, lectures, findings, or arguments that render a topic more understandable or reveal a previously hidden aspect. It is somewhat more precise or formal than equivalents like verhelderend. In everyday speech, erhellend is used to characterize a discussion or presentation that dispels confusion or sheds light on a complex issue.

Examples: An erhellend artikel on climate policy could present clear metrics and causal explanations. Erhellende bevindingen from a study might challenge prevailing assumptions. Phrased as a noun phrase, one might speak of "een erhellende uitleg" or "erhellende inzichten."

See also: verhelderend, informatief, edifying, illuminating.