to explain something to someone, by doing it or by giving instructions or examples
This dictionary contains many examples that show how words are actually used.
Oxford Essential Dictionary
verb (shows, showing, showed /, has shown or has showed)
pronunciation
The word show sounds like go.
1 to let somebody see something:
She showed me her holiday photos.
You have to show your ticket on the train.
2 to make something clear; to explain something to somebody:
Can you show me how to use the computer?
Research shows that most people get too little exercise.
3 to appear or be seen:
The anger showed in his face.
show off to talk loudly or do something silly to make people notice you:
Joyce was showing off by driving too fast.
show something off to let people see something that is new or beautiful:
James wanted to show off his new jacket.
show somebody round to go with somebody and show them everything in a building:
David showed me round the school.
show up (informal) to arrive:
What time did they show up?
Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English
show
I. show1 S1 W1 /ʃəʊ $ ʃoʊ/ BrE AmE verb (past tense showed, past participle shown /ʃəʊn $ ʃoʊn/)
[Language: Old English; Origin: sceawian 'to look, look at, see']
1. LET SOMEBODY SEE [transitive] to let someone see something
show somebody something
The children proudly showed me their presents.
show something to somebody
Show your ticket to the woman at the entrance.
The man grinned, showing bad teeth.
2. PROVE SOMETHING [transitive] to provide facts or information that make it clear that something is true, that something exists, or that something has happened:
Figures showed a 9% rise in inflation.
Gary has shown his faith in the club’s future by agreeing to stay on.
show (that)
Mike needed a copy of the will to show that the books had been left to him.
show somebody (that)
We have shown our critics that we can succeed.
show how
This document shows how to oppose bad decisions about new housing.
show what
She just wants a chance to show what she can do.
show somebody/something to be something
Charles showed himself to be a fine leader.
be shown to be/do something
The campaign has been shown to be a waste of money.
The new treatment has been shown to reduce the number of deaths.
studies/evidence/research etc shows
Several studies have shown that aggressive toys lead to bad behaviour.
The Polish economy began to show signs of recovery.
It just goes to show (=proves) how much people judge each other on how they look.
REGISTER
In written English, people often prefer to use indicate, which sounds more formal than show:
▪ The latest statistics indicate that the country is falling deeper into recession.
In scientific contexts, they often prefer prove or demonstrate, which sound more definite:
▪ This research demonstrates the need to treat cancer early.
3. FEELINGS/ATTITUDES/QUALITIES [transitive] to let your feelings, attitudes, or personal qualities be clearly seen OPP hide:
Think positively and show some determination.
She had learned not to show her emotions.
It was the sound a man might make when in pain but trying not to show it.
Mary showed great interest in the children.
4. EXPLAIN WITH ACTIONS [transitive] to explain to someone how to do something, by doing it yourself or using actions to help them learn
show somebody how
Show me how the gun works.
show somebody how to do something
Maureen showed Peter how to feed the young animals.
show somebody something
Can you show Lucy the way to slice onions?
5. PICTURE/MAP ETC [transitive] if a picture, map etc shows something, you can see it on the picture, map etc:
I want a photograph that shows his face.
The map shows the main rivers of the region.
6. GUIDE SOMEBODY [transitive] to go with someone and guide them to a place
show somebody to/into something
Can you show Mrs Davies to the bathroom?
show somebody out/in
I can show myself out (=out of the office or house).
show somebody something
Come on, I’ll show you the way.
7. POINT AT SOMETHING [transitive] to let someone see where a place or thing is, especially by pointing to it
show somebody where
Can you show me exactly where he fell?
8. FILM/TELEVISION [intransitive and transitive] to make a film or television programme available on a screen for people to see, or to be on a screen:
The film was shown on television last night.
The match was shown live (=could be seen on television while it was being played).
It’s now showing at cinemas across London. ⇨ ↑showing(1)
9. BE EASY TO SEE [intransitive] if something shows, it is easy to see:
His happiness showed in his face.
Her scar doesn’t show, because her hair covers it.
Stephen was worried, and it showed.
10. DIRT/MARK [transitive] if material shows the dirt or a mark, it is easy to see the dirt or mark on it:
Light-coloured clothes tend to show the dirt.
11. INCREASE/DECREASE [transitive] to have an increase or decrease in something, or a profit or loss:
The price of players is the reason why many football clubs show big losses on their balance sheets.
Recent elections have shown significant gains by right-wing groups.
12. ART/PICTURES [transitive] to put a group of paintings or other works of art in one place so that people can come and see them SYN exhibit:
Her recent sculptures are being shown at the Hayward Gallery.
The Whitney Museum was the first to show Mapplethorpe’s photographs.
13. I’ll show him/them etc spoken used to say that you will prove to someone that you are better, more effective etc than they think you are
14. have something to show for something to have something as a result of what you have been doing:
If he fails, he’ll have nothing to show for his time at school.
She had plenty of money to show for all her work.
15. show your face if you will not show your face somewhere, you will not go there because you have a good reason to feel ashamed or embarrassed about being there:
She never shows her face around here.
16. show your hand to make your true power or intentions clear, especially after you have been keeping them secret:
There were so many rumours that the company was forced to show its hand.
17. ANIMAL [transitive] to put an animal into a competition with other animals:
Do you plan to show your dogs?
18. ARRIVE [intransitive] (also show up) informal especially American English to arrive at the place where someone is waiting for you SYN turn up:
I went to meet Hank, but he never showed.
19. show somebody in a good/bad etc light if an action shows you in a good or bad light, it makes people have a good or bad opinion of you:
During an interview, you need to show yourself in the best possible light.
20. show somebody the door to make it clear that someone is not welcome and should leave
21. show (somebody) who’s boss informal to prove to someone who is threatening your authority that you are more powerful than they are:
You’ve got to show your dog who’s boss. When you say ‘Sit!’, he should sit.
22. show the way if you show the way for other people, you do something new that others then try to copy
23. show willing British English to make it clear that you are willing to do something:
He hasn’t done any cooking yet, but at least he’s shown willing.
24. show a leg! British English spoken used to tell someone to get out of bed
25. show (somebody) a clean pair of heels British English old-fashioned informal to run away very fast
26. show me the money American English spoken informal used to tell someone to give or pay you a lot of money, rather than just talk about the fact that they will give it to you
• • •
THESAURUS
■ let someone see
▪ show to let someone see something, especially by holding it out in front of them: Everyone has to show their identity cards at the entrance to the building. | Stephanie showed us her engagement ring.
▪ flash to show something to someone very quickly: ‘We’re police’, he said, flashing his card at us. | Miranda flashed a surprised look into the mirror.
▪ let somebody have a look/take a look especially spoken to show something to someone, especially so that they can examine it, repair it etc: If the wound doesn’t get better soon, you should let the doctor take a look at it. | Mike’s good with cars – let him have a look.
▪ reveal especially written to let someone see or know about something that is usually hidden, or that you want to keep secret – often used about showing your feelings or private thoughts: Suzy looked away quickly in order not to reveal her true feelings. | He lifted the lid of the box to reveal a small snake.
▪ expose especially written to let someone see something that could not be seen before: The receding tide had exposed huge expanses of sand. | The bear opened its mouth, exposing rows of sharp teeth.
■ show someone how to do something
▪ show to explain to someone how to do something or how something works, especially by doing it yourself: Laurie’s been showing me how to snowboard. | Can I show you how the oven works?
▪ demonstrate to show how to do something or how something works – especially to a group of people: A qualified instructor will demonstrate how to use the machines properly. | There’s a meeting this afternoon to demonstrate the new software.
▪ guide/take somebody through something to show someone how to do something, or how a process happens, especially something difficult or complicated: The book guides you through the different stages of starting your own business. | A stockbroker will take you through the minefield of stocks and shares.
show somebody around (something) (also show somebody round (something) British English) phrasal verb
to go around a place with someone when they first arrive there, to show them what is interesting, useful etc:
Harrison showed her around the house.
show off phrasal verb
1. to try to make people admire your abilities, achievements, or possessions – used to show disapproval ⇨ show-off:
He couldn’t resist showing off on the tennis court.
2. show something ↔ off to show something to a lot of people because you are very proud of it:
a picture of the restaurant’s owners showing off their award
3. show something ↔ off if one thing shows off something else, it makes the other thing look especially attractive SYN complement:
The white dress showed off her dark skin beautifully.
show somebody over something phrasal verb especially British English
to guide someone through an interesting building or a house that is for sale:
Ingrid has a job showing visitors over the castle.
show up phrasal verb
1. informal to arrive, especially at the place where someone is waiting for you SYN turn up:
Seth showed up, apologising for being late.
We had 200 people show up for our seminar.
2. show something ↔ up to make it possible to see or notice something that was not clear before:
The sunlight showed up the marks on the window.
3. to be easy to see or notice:
Use a light colour which will show up on a dark background.
4. show somebody ↔ up to make someone feel embarrassed by behaving in a stupid or unacceptable way when you are with them SYN embarrass:
She says I showed her up in front of her friends when they came to the house.
II. show2 S1 W1 BrE AmE noun
1. PERFORMANCE [countable] a performance for the public, especially one that includes singing, dancing, or jokes:
I enjoyed the show immensely.
The show starts at 7:30 pm.
They’ve come to town to see a Broadway show.
Perry was the star of the show. ⇨ ↑floor show, ↑roadshow
2. TV/RADIO [countable] a programme on television or on the radio:
The senator appeared on the CBS show ‘Face the Nation’.
a new television quiz show ⇨ ↑chat show, ↑game show, ↑talk show
3. COLLECTION OF THINGS TO SEE [countable] an occasion when a lot of similar things are brought together in one place so that people can come and look at them:
the Paris Boat Show
a fashion show for charity
Kelly has a show of her latest work opening shortly.
4. on show being shown to the public:
Paintings by Matisse are on show at the New York Gallery.
The designer clothes will go on show in Chicago next month.
Local antiques will be put on show in a new building especially built for the collection.
5. a show of something an occasion when someone deliberately shows a particular feeling, attitude, or quality:
I felt I should make a show of dignity.
The award will be seen as a show of support.
show of strength/force
a strong and determined show of force by the police
6. PRETENDED ACT [singular, uncountable] when you pretend to do or feel something SYN pretence
show of
a show of gratitude
Susan put on a show of regret all day.
The waiter made a show of wiping the table.
7. for show with the purpose of looking attractive or impressive rather than being useful:
He does actually play his guitar – it’s not just for show.
8. COLOURFUL SCENE [singular] an impressive scene, especially one that is very colourful SYN display
show of
a glorious show of colour in the rose garden
Maple trees put on their best show in the autumn.
9. COMPETITION [countable] a competition between similar things or animals to choose the best:
The dog show was being held in the Agricultural Hall.
10. EVENT/SITUATION [singular] informal something which is being done or organized:
We need to find someone to run the show (=be in charge).
11. put up a good/poor etc show informal to perform, play etc well or badly:
Our team put up a pretty good show, but we lost in the end.
12. let’s get this show on the road spoken used to tell people it is time to start working or start a journey
13. (jolly) good show British English old-fashioned spoken used to express your approval of something
⇨ steal the show at ↑steal1(4)
• • •
COLLOCATIONS (for Meaning 2)
■ ADJECTIVES/NOUN + show
▪ live (=broadcast on TV or radio as it is happening) Tonight’s show is live from Wembley Stadium.
▪ a TV/television/radio show What’s your favourite TV show?
▪ a quiz show (=in which people try to answer questions correctly) It’s the BBC’s most popular quiz show.
▪ a game show (=in which people play games or answer questions to win prizes) It’s been a popular game show for years.
▪ a chat show British English, a talk show American English (=in which famous or interesting people talk to someone about themselves) She was on the chat show to publicize her new novel.
▪ a family show (=one that is suitable for families and children to watch) It’s a real family show, with something for everyone.
▪ a news show especially AmE: the morning news show
■ verbs
▪ appear on/take part in a show (=to be a guest on a show) They were trying to persuade Daniel Radcliffe to appear on the show.
▪ host a show (also present a show British English) (=to be the person who introduces the different parts of a show, or who talks to guests) He presents his own talk show on ITV.
▪ watch a show People of all ages watch the show.
■ phrases
▪ the star of the show Very quickly, Williams became the star of the show.
Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary
show
show [show shows showed showing] verb, noun [ʃəʊ] [ʃoʊ]
verb (showed, shown [ʃəʊn] ; [ʃoʊn] or, rarely, showed)
MAKE CLEAR
1. transitive to make sth clear; to prove sth
• ~ (that)… The figures clearly show that her claims are false.
• The government's popularity is declining rapidly, as the opinion polls show.
• ~ sb that… Market research has shown us that people want quality, not just low prices.
• ~ sth a report showing the company's current situation
• ~ sb/sth to be/have sth His new book shows him to be a first-rate storyteller.
• ~ (sb) how, what, etc… This shows how people are influenced by TV advertisements.
LET SB SEE STH
2. transitive to let sb see sth
• ~ sth You have to show your ticket as you go in.
• ~ sth to sb If there's a letter from France please show it to me.
• Have you shown your work to anyone?
• ~ sb sth Have you shown anyone your work?
TEACH
3. transitive to help sb to do sth by letting them watch you do it or by explaining it
• ~ sth to sb She showed the technique to her students.
• ~ sb sth She showed her students the technique.
• Can you show me how to do it?
POINT
4. transitive ~ sb sth to point to sth so that sb can see where or what it is
• He showed me our location on the map.
• ~ sb which, what, etc… Show me which picture you drew.
GUIDE
5. transitive to lead or guide sb to a place
• ~ sb + adv./prep. The attendant showed us to our seats.
• We were shown into the waiting room.
• ~ sb sth I'll go first and show you the way.
QUALITY/BEHAVIOUR/FEELING
6. transitive to make it clear that you have a particular quality
• ~ sth to show great courage
• ~ yourself + adj. She had shown herself unable to deal with money.
• ~ yourself to be/have sth He has shown himself to be ready to make compromises.
• ~ that… He has shown that he is ready to make compromises.
7. transitive to behave in a particular way towards sb
• ~ sth (for/to sb) They showed no respect for their parents.
• ~ sb sth They showed their parents no respect.
8. intransitive, transitive if a feeling or quality shows, or if you show it, people can see it
• Fear showed in his eyes.
• She tried not to let her disappointment show.
• She's nearly forty now. And it shows (= it's obvious).
• ~ sth Her expression showed her disappointment.
• James began to show signs of impatience.
• ~ how, what, etc… She tried not to show how disappointed she was.
BE VISIBLE
9. intransitive, transitive if sth shows, people can see it. If sth shows a mark, dirt, etc, the mark can be seen
• She had a warm woollen hat and scarf on that left only her eyes and nose showing.
• ~ sth Their new white carpet showed every mark.
INFORMATION
10. transitive (not usually used in the progressive tenses) ~ sth to give particular information, or a time or measurement
• The map shows the principal towns and rivers.
• The clock showed midnight.
• The end-of-year accounts show a loss.
OF PICTURE/PHOTOGRAPH
11. transitive ~ sth | ~ sb/sth (as sth) | ~ sb/sth doing sth to be of sb/sth; to represent sb/sth
• She had objected to a photo showing her in a bikini.
FOR PUBLIC TO SEE
12. intransitive, transitive to be or make sth available for the public to see
• The movie is now showing at all major movie theaters.
• ~ sth The movie is being shown now.
• She plans to show her paintings early next year.
PROVE
13. transitive, no passive (informal) to prove that you can do sth or are sth
• ~ sb (sth) They think I can't do it, but I'll show them!
• ~ yourself to be/have sth He has shown himself to be a caring father.
ARRIVE
14. intransitive (informal, especially NAmE) to arrive where you have arranged to meet sb or do sth
• I waited an hour but he didn't show.
see also show up
ANIMAL
15. transitive ~ sth to enter an animal in a competition
more at fly/show/wave the flag at flag n., show your paces at pace n., show sb/know/learn the ropes at rope n.
Word Origin:
Old English scēawian ‘look at, inspect’, from a West Germanic base meaning ‘look’; related to Dutch schouwen and German schauen.
Thesaurus:
show verb
1. T
• Opinion polls show that the government's popularity is declining.
prove • • demonstrate • • indicate • • illustrate •
show/prove/demonstrate/indicate sth to sb
show/prove/demonstrate/indicate/illustrate that/what/how…
figures/studies show/prove/demonstrate/indicate/illustrate sth
Show or prove? Prove is often preferred to show to give a stronger sense of justice being done.
2. T
• You have to show your ticket as you go in.
reveal • • expose •
show/reveal sth to sb
3. T, I
• Show me how to do it.
teach • • train • • coach • |formal instruct •
show/teach sb how to do sth
show/teach sb that…
4. T
• He showed me our location on the map.
point • • indicate •
5. T
• You'll need someone to show you the way.
guide • • take • • go with sb • • escort • • walk • • drive • • lead • • usher • • direct • |formal accompany •
show/guide/take/escort/walk/drive/lead/usher/direct/accompany sb to/out of/into sth
show/guide/take/escort/walk/drive/lead sb around/round
show/guide/take/escort/lead/usher sb in/out
6. T, I
• Her expression showed her disappointment.
reflect • • express • • display • • demonstrate •
show/demonstrate that…
show/reflect/express/display/demonstrate interest
show/reflect/express/display (your) feelings/emotions
7. I, T
• The cloth was folded so that the stain didn't show.
appear • • emerge • • come out • |formal manifest itself •
suddenly show/appear/emerge/come out
8. T (not usually used in the progressive tenses)
• The picture shows St George slaying the dragon.
present • • portray • |formal depict • • represent •
show/present/portray/depict/represent sb/sth as sth
show/present/portray/depict/represent sb/sth accurately
show/present/portray/depict sb/sth clearly/vividly
9. I, T
• She plans to show her paintings early next year.
display • • present • • produce • • launch • |journalism unveil •
show/display/present/launch/unveil a new product/model
show/display/present your wares
show/display a painting/your work/a collection/a trophy
Language Bank:
illustrate
Referring to a chart, graph or table
▪ This bar chart illustrates ▪ how many journeys people made on public transport over a three-month period.
▪ This table compares ▪ bus, train, and taxi use between April and June.
▪ The results are shown ▪ in the chart below.
▪ In this pie chart, the survey results are broken down ▪ by age.
▪ This pie chart breaks down ▪ the survey results by age.
As can be seen from ▪ these results, younger people use buses more than older people.
According to ▪ these figures, bus travel accounts for 60% of public transport use.
From ▪ the data in the above graph, it is apparent that ▪ buses are the most widely used form of public transport.
Language Banks at evidence, fall, increase, proportion, surprising
Synonyms:
take
lead • escort • drive • show • walk • guide • usher • direct
These words all mean to go with sb from one place to another.
take • to go with sb from one place to another, for example in order to show them sth or to show them the way to a place: ▪ It's too far to walk— I'll take you by car.
lead • to go with or go in front of sb in order to show them the way or to make them go in the right direction: ▪ Firefighters led the survivors to safety.
escort • to go with sb in order to protect or guard them or to show them the way: ▪ The president arrived, escorted by twelve bodyguards.
drive • to take sb somewhere in a car, taxi, etc: ▪ My mother drove us to the airport.
show • to take sb to a particular place, in the right direction, or along the correct route: ▪ The attendant showed us to our seats.
walk • to go somewhere with sb on foot, especially in order to make sure that they get there safely; to take an animal, especially a dog, for a walk or make an animal walk somewhere: ▪ He always walked her home. ◊ ▪ Have you walked the dog yet today?
guide • to show sb the way to a place, often by going with them; to show sb a place that you know well: ▪ She guided us through the busy streets. ◊ ▪ We were guided around the museums.
usher • (rather formal) to politely take or show sb where they should go, especially within a building: ▪ She ushered her guests to their seats.
direct • (rather formal) to tell or show sb how to get somewhere or where to go: ▪ A young woman directed them to the station.
to take/lead/escort/drive/show/walk/guide/usher/direct sb to/out of/into sth
to take/lead/escort/drive/show/walk/guide sb around/round
to take/lead/escort/drive/walk sb home
to take/lead/escort/guide sb to safety
to lead/show the way
Example Bank:
• I'm giving him a chance to show what he can do.
• It's such a tiny mark, it hardly shows.
• Lee was happy to show her how it should be done.
• Let me show you on the map.
• Lewis refused to show any emotion.
• She showed her new toy to her friends.
• Third quarter figures are likely to show a further fall in figures.
• ‘There's a Mr Smith here to see you.’ ‘Show him in.’
• A white carpet will show every mark.
• Come out and show yourselves!
• Could you show this gentleman the way to the conference hall, please?
• Don't worry— the marks won't show.
• He wore a mask that showed only his eyes.
• His hands were clenched, the whites of the knuckles showing.
• His shirt tail was showing from under his jersey.
• I waited till ten o'clock but she didn't show.
• I want a dress that won't show too much of my arms.
• If there's a letter from France please show it to me.
• Let me show you exactly what this will mean.
• Light was showing under the door.
• Only about 20 people showed.
• She had a warm woollen hat on that left only her eyes and nose showing.
• She showed great courage in the face of danger.
• The cloth was folded so that the stain didn't show.
• The film is now showing at all major cinemas.
• The government's popularity is declining rapidly, as the opinion polls show.
• The picture shows St George slaying the dragon.
• They have published a report showing the company's current situation.
• They think I can't do it, but I'll show them!
• They'll need someone to show them the way.
• What if nobody shows?
Idioms: for show ▪ get the show on the road ▪ good show! ▪ it goes to show ▪ show of hands ▪ show somebody the door ▪ show somebody who's boss ▪ show the way ▪ show willing ▪ show your face ▪ show your hand ▪ something/nothing to show for something
Derived: show off ▪ show somebody off ▪ show somebody round ▪ show somebody up ▪ show something off ▪ show something up ▪ show through ▪ show through something ▪ show up
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
show / ʃəʊ / / ʃoʊ / verb [ T ] ( showed , shown ) (MAKE SEEN)
A1 to make it possible for something to be seen:
[ + two objects ] I must show you this new book I've just bought.
On this map, urban areas are shown in grey.
You ought to show that rash to your doctor.
[ + obj + question word ] Why won't you show me wh at you've got in your hand?
[ + obj + -ing verb ] The secretly filmed video shows the prince and princess kiss ing .
These photographs show the effects of the chemical on the trees.
He began to show signs of recovery.
"I've got a Victorian gold coin here." "Have you? Show me (= allow me to see it) ."
Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
show / ʃəʊ / / ʃoʊ / verb [ T ] ( showed , shown ) (RECORD)
B1 to record or express a number or measurement:
The right-hand dial shows the temperature, and the left-hand one shows the air pressure.
The company showed a loss of £2 million last year.
The latest crime figures show a sharp rise in burglaries.
show / ʃəʊ / / ʃoʊ / verb [ T ] ( showed , shown ) (EXPLAIN)
B1 to explain something to someone, by doing it or by giving instructions or examples:
[ + question word ] Can you show me how to set the DVD player?
This dictionary contains many examples that show how words are actually used.
Could you show me the way to the bus station?
show / ʃəʊ / / ʃoʊ / verb [ T ] ( showed , shown ) (PROVE)
B2 to prove something or make the truth or existence of something known:
She has shown her self (to be) a highly competent manager.
His diaries show him to have been an extremely insecure person.
[ + (that) ] The diaries show (that) he was very insecure.
Show me (that) I can trust you.
[ + question word ] Our research has shown (us) how little we know about this disease.
show / ʃəʊ / / ʃoʊ / verb [ T ] ( showed , shown ) (EXPRESS)
B2 to express ideas or feelings using actions or words:
He finds it difficult to show affection.
She showed enormous courage when she rescued him from the fire.
[ + two objects ] You should show your parents more respect/show more respect to your parents.
show / ʃəʊ / / ʃoʊ / verb ( showed , shown ) (NOTICEABLE)
C1 [ I ] to be easy to see or notice:
"Oh no, I've spilled red wine on my jacket!" "Don't worry, it doesn't show."
Whatever she's thinking, she never lets it show.
I've painted over the graffiti twice, but it still shows through .
The drug does not show up in blood tests because it is effective in very small quantities.
When we moved in, the house hadn't been decorated for 20 years, and it showed.
→ See also show up
show your age to look as old as you really are:
Recently, he's really starting to show his age.
show / ʃəʊ / / ʃoʊ / verb ( showed , shown ) (PUBLIC EVENT)
[ T ] to make an artist's work available for the public to see:
Our aim is to make it easier for young unknown artists to show their work.
[ I or T ] If a cinema or a television station shows a film or programme, or if a film or programme is showing somewhere, you can see it there:
It's the first time this film has been shown on British television.
Now showing at a cinema near you!
show / ʃəʊ / / ʃoʊ / verb [ I ] ( showed , shown ) mainly US (ARRIVE)
to show up
show / ʃəʊ / / ʃoʊ / verb [ T usually + adv/prep ] ( showed , shown ) (LEAD)
to take someone somewhere by going there with them:
Could you show Dr Sanchez into the living room?
The waiter showed us to our table.
show / ʃəʊ / / ʃoʊ / verb [ T ] ( showed , shown ) (FAIL TO HIDE)
to fail to hide something, or to make it possible to see or know something that is not intended to be seen or known:
Your shirt's so thin that it shows your bra.
Light-coloured carpets show the dirt.
[ + question word ] His failure in the exams shows (up) just how bad his teachers are.
show / ʃəʊ / / ʃoʊ / verb [ T + obj + question word ] ( showed , shown ) (MAKE UNDERSTAND)
to make someone understand something by directing their attention to it:
Can you show me wh ere it hurts?
Show me wh ich one you want.
Collins Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary
show
[ʃo͟ʊ]
♦
shows, showing, showed, shown
1) VERB If something shows that a state of affairs exists, it gives information that proves it or makes it clear to people.
[V that] Research shows that a high-fibre diet may protect you from bowel cancer...
[V that] He was arrested at his home in Southampton after a breath test showed he had drunk more than twice the legal limit for driving...
[V n] These figures show an increase of over one million in unemployment...
[be V-ed to-inf] It was only later that the drug was shown to be addictive...
[V wh] You'll be given regular blood tests to show whether you have been infected.
2) VERB If a picture, chart, film, or piece of writing shows something, it represents it or gives information about it.
[V n] Figure 4.1 shows the respiratory system.
[V n] ...a coin showing Cleopatra...
[V-ed] The cushions, shown left, measure 20 x 12 inches and cost $39.95...
[V n -ing] Much of the film shows the painter simply going about his task...
[V wh] Our photograph shows how the plants will turn out.
3) VERB If you show someone something, you give it to them, take them to it, or point to it, so that they can see it or know what you are referring to.
[V n to n] Cut out this article and show it to your bank manager...
[V n n] He showed me the flat he shares with Esther...
[V n wh] I showed them where the gun was...
[V n wh] Show me which one you like and I'll buy it for you.
4) VERB If you show someone to a room or seat, you lead them there.
[V n prep/adv] It was very good of you to come. Let me show you to my study...
[V n prep/adv] Milton was shown into the office...
[V n prep/adv] John will show you upstairs, Mr Penry...
[V n n] Your office is ready for you. I'll show you the way.
5) V-ERG If you show someone how to do something, you do it yourself so that they can watch you and learn how to do it.
[V n wh] Claire showed us how to make a chocolate roulade...
[V n wh] There are seasoned professionals who can teach you and show you what to do...
[V n wh] Mother asked me to show you how the phones work...
[V n n] Dr. Reichert has shown us a new way to look at those behavior problems.
6) V-ERG If something shows or if you show it, it is visible or noticeable.
[V n] He showed his teeth in a humourless grin...
[V n] His beard was just beginning to show signs of grey...
Faint glimmers of daylight were showing through the treetops...
I'd driven both ways down this road but my tracks didn't show.
7) V-ERG If you show a particular attitude, quality, or feeling, or if it shows, you behave in a way that makes this attitude, quality, or feeling clear to other people.
[V n] Elsie has had enough time to show her gratitude...
[V n] She showed no interest in her children...
Ferguson was unhappy and it showed...
[V n n] You show me respect...
[V n to-inf] Mr Clarke has shown himself to be resolutely opposed to compromise...
[V that] The baby was tugging at his coat to show that he wanted to be picked up.
8) VERB If something shows a quality or characteristic or if that quality or characteristic shows itself, it can be noticed or observed.
[V n] The story shows a strong narrative gift and a vivid eye for detail...
[V n] Middle East peace talks in Washington showed signs of progress yesterday...
[V n] Her popularity clearly shows no sign of waning...
[V n] How else did his hostility to women show itself?
9) N-COUNT: usu a N of n A show of a feeling or quality is an attempt by someone to make it clear that they have that feeling or quality.
Miners gathered in the centre of Bucharest in a show of support for the government...
A crowd of more than 10,000 has gathered in a show of strength...
She said goodbye to Hilda with a convincing show of affection...
Mr Morris was determined to put on a show of family unity.
10) N-UNCOUNT If you say that something is for show, you mean that it has no real purpose and is done just to give a good impression.
The change in government is more for show than for real...
`It's all show,' said Linus. `The girls don't take it seriously.'
11) VERB If a company shows a profit or a loss, its accounts indicate that it has made a profit or a loss.
[V n] It is the only one of the three companies expected to show a profit for the quarter...
[V n] Lonrho's mining and minerals businesses showed some improvement.
12) VERB If a person you are expecting to meet does not show, they do not arrive at the place where you expect to meet them. [mainly AM]
There was always a chance he wouldn't show.
Syn:
turn up
PHRASAL VERB
Show up means the same as show. V P We waited until five o'clock, but he did not show up... V P He always shows up in a fancy car... V P for/to n If I don't show up for class this morning, I'll be kicked out.
13) N-COUNT: oft supp N A television or radio show is a programme on television or radio.
I had my own TV show...
This is the show in which Loyd Grossman visits the houses of the famous.
...a popular talk show on a Cuban radio station...
A daily one-hour news show can cost $250,000 to produce.
Syn:
programme
14) N-COUNT A show in a theatre is an entertainment or concert, especially one that includes different items such as music, dancing, and comedy.
How about going shopping and seeing a show in London?...
He has earned a reputation as the man who can close a show with a bad review...
The band are playing a handful of shows at smaller venues.
15) VERB If someone shows a film or television programme, it is broadcast or appears on television or in the cinema.
[V n] The BBC World Service Television news showed the same film clip...
[V n] The drama will be shown on American TV next year...
American films are showing at Moscow's cinemas.
Derived words:
showing plural N-COUNT I gave him a private showing of the film.
16) N-COUNT: also on N A show is a public exhibition of things, such as works of art, fashionable clothes, or things that have been entered in a competition.
The venue for the show is Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre Hall...
Gucci will be holding fashion shows to present their autumn collection...
Two complementary exhibitions are on show at the Africa Centre...
Today his picture goes on show at the National Portrait Gallery.
17) VERB To show things such as works of art means to put them in an exhibition where they can be seen by the public.
[V n] 50 dealers will show oils, watercolours, drawings and prints from 1900 to 1992.
[V n] ...one of East Village's better-known galleries, where he showed and sold his work.
18) VERB: V In a horse race, if a horse shows, it finishes first, second, or third. [AM]
19) ADJ: ADJ n A show home, house, or flat is one of a group of new homes. The building company decorates it and puts furniture in it, and people who want to buy one of the homes come and look round it.
20) PHRASE If a question is decided by a show of hands, people vote on it by raising their hands to indicate whether they vote yes or no.
Parliamentary leaders agreed to take all such decisions by a show of hands...
Russell then asked for a show of hands concerning each of the targets.
21) PHRASE: have inflects, PHR n If you have something to show for your efforts, you have achieved something as a result of what you have done.
I'm nearly 31 and it's about time I had something to show for my time in my job...
It always amazed her how little she had to show for the amount she spent.
22) PHRASE You can say `I'll show you' to threaten or warn someone that you are going to make them admit that they are wrong.
She shook her fist. `I'll show you,' she said...
I'll show him, leave it to me.
23) PHRASE: PHR that, PHR n If you say it just goes to show or it just shows that something is the case, you mean that what you have just said or experienced demonstrates that it is the case.
I forgot all about the ring. Which just goes to show that getting good grades in school doesn't mean you're clever...
It's crazy and just shows the inconsistency of refereeing.
24) PHRASE: V inflects If you say that someone is running the show, you mean that they are in control or in charge of a situation.
They made it clear who is now running the show...
There's some serious problems with the way the state's leadership has been running the show.
25) PHRASE: V inflects If you say that someone steals the show, you mean that they get a lot of attention or praise because they perform better than anyone else in a show or other event.
It was Chinese women who stole the show on the first day of competition...
Brad Pitt steals the show as the young man doomed by his zest for life.
26) to show someone the door → see door
to show your face → see face
Phrasal Verbs:
- show around
- show off
- show round
- show up
Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary
1show /ˈʃoʊ/ verb shows; showed /ˈʃoʊd/; shown /ˈʃoʊn/ or showed; show·ing
1 [+ obj] : to cause or allow (something) to be seen
• He showed her a picture. = He showed a picture to her.
• You have to show your tickets/passports at the gate.
• You're the only person that I've shown this letter to.
• Give them a chance to show (you) what they can do.
2 [+ obj] : to give information that proves (something)
• The study/research shows (that there is) a link between cigarettes and lung cancer.
• The medication has been shown [=proven] to reduce high blood pressure.
• They showed the theory to be faulty.
• He seemed perfectly healthy before he had his heart attack. That just goes to show [=shows, proves] that appearances can be deceptive.
3 [+ obj] : to teach (someone) how to do or use something especially by letting that person see you do or use it
• You will have to show me how to play the game.
• He showed them a card trick.
• Definitions tell you the meanings of words; examples show you how the words are used.
4 [+ obj] : to tell (someone) what or where something is by touching or pointing to it
• Show me which video game you want to play.
• She showed me where Laos was on the globe.
• Show me where it hurts.
• The guide showed us the church. [=pointed to the different parts of the church and told us about them]
5 always followed by an adverb or preposition [+ obj] : to lead (someone) to a place
• He showed us to our seats.
• Please show him in/out. [=lead him to the entrance/exit]
• She showed them the way to the door.
6 [+ obj]
- used to describe what can be seen or noticed when you look at or examine something
• Her grades have shown some improvement. [=her grades have improved]
• The city's education system is showing signs of improvement. [=the city's education system seems to be improving]
7 [+ obj] : to have an image or picture of (someone or something)
• The postcard shows a sunset on the beach.
• The photograph shows her as a young woman.
8 : to give (information) in the form of numbers, pictures, etc.
[+ obj]
• The thermostat showed 68 degrees.
• The pie chart shows that 20 percent of the money is spent on supplies.
[no obj]
• 3:15 showed on the clock.
9 a [no obj] : to be able to be seen or noticed
• The sun showed through the clouds.
• The scar hardly shows.
• Pull down your skirt. Your slip is showing. [=I can see your slip]
• He's been working out a lot, and it shows.
- sometimes + up
• The mountains showed up clearly against the sky.
b [+ obj] : to cause or allow (something) to be easily seen or noticed
• A light-colored carpet will show dirt.
10 a [+ obj] : to cause or allow (a feeling, quality, or condition) to be seen or known
• The expression on his face showed how disappointed he was.
• She is not afraid of showing her true feelings.
• Show your support by wearing one of these yellow ribbons.
• When you say you dislike computers, you're really showing your age.
b [no obj] of a feeling, quality, or condition : to be able to be seen
• His disappointment showed in his face.
11 [+ obj] : to give (mercy, respect, etc.) to someone
• The judge showed no mercy.
• Students must show respect for their teachers. = Students must show their teachers respect.
• Please show some compassion.
12 [+ obj] : to cause (someone) to see your true ability, power, etc.
• They think I'm too old to run the race, but I'll show them! [=I'll run the race and prove that I'm not too old to do it]
• He thinks he can tell me what to do, but I'll show him who's boss.
13 : to make (a movie, television show, piece of art, etc.) available for the public to see
[+ obj]
• Some news programs have decided not to show [=air] the video.
• She is showing her paintings at an art gallery.
[no obj]
• The movie is now showing [=playing] in local theaters.
• She has shown at the art gallery several times.
14 [no obj] chiefly US informal : to arrive or appear at a place
• Many passengers failed to show.
- usually + up
• Everyone showed up on time.
• He didn't show up for work today.
- see also no-show
15 : to enter (an animal) in a competition in which it is judged against other animals of the same kind
[+ obj]
• He breeds and shows poodles.
[no obj]
• Two of our dogs will be showing in the national competition.
16
- used in phrases like have something/nothing to show for to say what someone has achieved or produced by doing something
• We worked all day but had nothing to show for it. [=we worked all day but did not achieve/accomplish anything]
• He invested millions of dollars into the company, but he has little to show for it.
• She has two Olympic gold medals to show for her years of training and practice. [=she won two Olympic gold medals as a result of her years of training and practice]
show around also Brit show round [phrasal verb] show (someone) around/round : to act as a guide for someone who is visiting a place : to lead (someone) around a place and point to and talk about the interesting or important things you see
• She showed us around (the city).
show off [phrasal verb] informal
1 disapproving : to try to impress someone with your abilities or possessions
• The boys were showing off in front of the girls.
• Stop trying to show off.
2 show off (someone or something) or show (someone or something) off : to cause (someone or something that you are proud of) to be seen or noticed by a lot of people
• She showed her baby off at the office.
• He drove around town, showing off his new car.
3 show off (something) or show (something) off : to make (something) very noticeable
• She wears tight clothes that show off her figure.
- see also show-off
show (someone) the door, show (someone) to the door
- see door
show the flag
- see 1flag
show up [phrasal verb] show up (someone) or show (someone) up informal : to embarrass (someone) : to do something that makes (someone) look foolish, weak, etc.
• He was deliberately trying to show up the boss.
- see also 1show 9a 14 (above)
show willing Brit : to show that you are willing and eager to do what is needed
• I got in to work extra early to show willing and impress my boss.
show your face : to appear in public and allow people to see you
• I don't know how he can stand to show his face around here after what happened.
show your hand also show your cards
1 : to put down your playing cards on a table so that their values can be seen
2 : to tell other people what you are planning to do, want to do, or are able to do
• The company wants to avoid showing its hand about its decision until next month.
show yourself
1 : to move out from a hidden place so that you can be seen
• The guard ordered him to show himself.
2 : to show that you are a particular kind of person, that you have a particular skill, etc. - followed by to + verb
• They showed themselves to be cowards. [=they behaved in a cowardly way]
• She has shown herself to be capable of running the company. [=has shown that she is capable of running the company]
show your stuff
- see 1stuff
show your true colors
- see 1color