verb

build

I. build¹ S1 W1 /bɪld/ BrE AmE verb (past tense and past participle built /bɪlt/)
[Word Family: noun: ↑build, ↑builder, ↑building; verb: ↑build, ↑rebuild; adjective: ↑built]
[Language: Old English; Origin: byldan]
1. MAKE SOMETHING [intransitive and transitive] to make something, especially a building or something large:
The purpose is to build new houses for local people.
The road took many years to build.
They needed $3 million to build the bridge.
It is the female birds that build the nests.
Developers want to build on the site of the old gasworks.
a row of recently built houses
build somebody something
He’s going to build the children a doll’s house.
2. MAKE SOMETHING DEVELOP (also build up) [transitive] to make something develop or form:
She had built a reputation as a criminal lawyer.
She’s been busy building her career.
Ross took 20 years to build up his business.
build (up) a picture of somebody/something (=form a clear idea about someone or something)
We’re trying to build up a picture of what happened.
3. be built of something to be made using particular materials:
The church was built of brick.
4. FEELING (also build up) [intransitive and transitive] if a feeling builds, or if you build it, it increases gradually over a period of time:
Tension began to build as they argued more frequently.
In order to build your self-esteem, set yourself targets you can reach.
5. build bridges to try to establish a better relationship between people who do not like each other:
Peter needs to try and build bridges with Lizzie.
• • •
THESAURUS
▪ build to make a house, road, wall, bridge etc using bricks, stone, wood, or other materials: A new stadium will be built for the Olympics.
▪ construct to build a building, bridge, machine etc. Construct is more formal than build: The council plans to construct two new schools.
▪ put up something to build a wall, fence, or building, or put a statue somewhere. Put up is less formal than build: The neighbours have put up a new wooden fence.
▪ erect formal to build a wall, fence, or building, especially a public building, or put a statue somewhere: A monument to the Canadian soliders was erected in Green Park.
▪ throw something up British English informal to build something very quickly: Developers have hastily thrown up family homes in the area.
▪ put together to make something from its parts, for example a piece of furniture: It took an hour to put the bookcase together.
▪ assemble formal to put all the parts of something such as a machine or a piece of furniture together: A line of robots assemble the cars.
build something around something phrasal verb
to base something on an idea or thing and develop it from there:
Successful businesses are built around good personal relationships.
build something ↔ in phrasal verb
to make something so that it is a permanent part of a wall, room etc:
You could build in a wardrobe with mirrored doors. ⇨ ↑built-in
build something into something phrasal verb
1. to make something so that it is a permanent part of a wall, room etc:
There are three cash machines built into the wall.
2. to make something a permanent part of a system, agreement etc:
Opportunities for reviewing the timings should be built into the plan.
build on phrasal verb
1. build something on something to base something on an idea or thing:
Our relationship is built on trust.
2. build on something to use your achievements as a base for further development:
The new plan will build on the success of the previous programme.
3. to add another room to a building in order to have more space
build something ↔ on
We’re planning to build on a conservatory.
build up phrasal verb
1. INCREASE GRADUALLY if something builds up somewhere, or if you build it up, it gradually becomes bigger or greater:
the rate at which the pension builds up
build something ↔ up
The museum has built up a fine art collection. ⇨ ↑build-up
2. DEVELOP build something ↔ up to make something develop or form
build something ↔ up into
He’s built up the family firm into a multinational company.
3. FEELING if a feeling builds up, or if you build it up, it increases gradually over a period of time:
If you don’t express your feelings, frustration and anger can build up.
build up something
You have to build up trust.
4. MAKE HEALTHY build somebody/something ↔ up to make someone well and strong again, especially after an illness:
Taking exercise will build up your strength.
5. PRAISE build somebody/something ↔ up to praise someone or something so that other people think they are really good, or so that they have more confidence:
The coach has been building his men up before the match.
6. build up sb’s hopes (also build somebody's hopes up) to unfairly encourage someone to think that they will get what they hope for:
Don’t build your hopes up too much.
build up to something phrasal verb
to prepare for a particular moment or event:
I could tell she was building up to some kind of announcement.

save

I. save¹ S1 W1 /seɪv/ BrE AmE verb
[Word Family: noun: ↑save, ↑saver, ↑saving, savings, SAVIOUR/SAVIOR; verb: ↑save]
[Date: 1200-1300; Language: Old French; Origin: salver, from Late Latin salvare, from Latin salvus; ⇨ ↑safe¹]
1. FROM HARM/DANGER [transitive] to make someone or something safe from danger, harm, or destruction ⇨ rescue:
Emergency aid could save millions threatened with starvation.
a new treatment that could save his life
She was determined to save her marriage.
the campaign to save the rain forests
save somebody/something from something
He saved the child from drowning.
2. MONEY [intransitive and transitive] (also save up) to keep money in a bank so that you can use it later, especially when you gradually add more money over a period of time:
He managed to save enough to buy a small house.
So far, I’ve saved about £500.
save for
I’m saving up for a new car. ⇨ ↑saver
3. NOT WASTE [transitive] (also save on something) to use less money, time, energy etc so that you do not waste any OPP waste:
We’ll save a lot of time if we go by car.
Everyone is being encouraged to save energy.
ways to save money on heating bills
energy-saving/time-saving etc
money-saving ideas
4. TO USE LATER [transitive] to keep something so that you can use or enjoy it in the future:
We’ll save the rest of the food and have it later.
save something for something
I had a bottle of champagne which I’d been saving for a special occasion.
5. COLLECT [transitive] (also save something ↔ up) to keep all the objects of a particular kind that you can find, so that you can use them:
I’m saving up vouchers to get a cheap air ticket to the States.
6. HELP TO AVOID [transitive] to help someone by making it unnecessary for them to do something that they do not want to do:
If you lent me £5, it would save me a trip to the bank.
save somebody doing something
I’ll take the shopping home in the car to save you carrying it.
save somebody the trouble/bother (of doing something)
I’ll get a taxi from the station to save you the trouble of coming to collect me.
7. KEEP FOR SOMEBODY [transitive] to stop people from using something so that it is available for someone else:
Will you save me a seat?
save something for somebody
We’ll save some dinner for you if you’re late.
8. COMPUTER [intransitive and transitive] to make a computer keep the work that you have done on it:
Don’t forget to save before you close the file.
Did you save the changes that you made?
9. SPORT [intransitive and transitive] to stop the other team from scoring in a game such as football:
The goalkeeper just managed to save the shot.
10. you saved my life spoken used to thank someone who has helped you out of a difficult situation or solved a problem for you:
Thanks again for the loan – you really saved my life.
11. save sb’s skin/neck/bacon informal to help someone to escape from an extremely difficult or dangerous situation:
He lied in court to save his own skin.
12. save the day to stop things from going badly and make a situation end successfully:
A local businessman saved the day by donating £30,000 to the school.
13. save face to do something that will stop you from looking stupid or feeling embarrassed:
A compromise must be found which will allow both sides in the dispute to save face. ⇨ ↑face-saving
14. saving grace the one good thing that makes someone or something acceptable:
His sense of humour was his only saving grace.
15. somebody can’t do something to save his/her life informal to be completely unable to do something:
He couldn’t draw to save his life!
16. save your breath spoken used to tell someone that it is not worth saying anything, because nothing they say will make any difference to the situation:
I tried to explain, but she told me to save my breath.
17. save somebody from themselves to prevent someone from doing something that they want to do but that you think is harmful
18. RELIGION [intransitive and transitive] in the Christian church, to free someone from the power of evil and bring them into the Christian religion:
Jesus came to save sinners.
• • •
THESAURUS
▪ save to gradually collect money by not spending all the money you have, especially when you regularly put some of it in a bank: She doesn’t earn much, but she still manages to save a few dollars each week. | We’re saving for a deposit to buy a house.
▪ set/put aside to regularly save part of the money you earn, especially over a long period of time: You should start setting aside part of your earnings as retirement savings.
▪ scrimp and save to try to save money by spending less on the things you need and by saving what you can, especially when you do not earn very much: My parents scrimped and saved for years to send me to college.
▪ squirrel something away informal to keep something, especially money, in a safe place to be used later: I wanted to surprise her, so I squirreled away a couple of dollars a week to spend on a present.
▪ economize to spend less money by buying only the things that you really need, or by buying cheaper things: Weddings can be expensive, but you can economize by doing some things yourself.

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.

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.

prosper

pros‧per /ˈprɒspə $ ˈprɑːspər/ BrE AmE verb
[Date: 1300-1400; Language: Old French; Origin: prosperer, from Latin prosperare, from prosperus 'favorable']
[intransitive] if people or businesses prosper, they grow and develop in a successful way, especially by becoming rich or making a large profit:
Businesses across the state are prospering.

love

I. love¹ S1 W1 /lʌv/ BrE AmE verb
[Word Family: adjective: ↑lovable ≠ UNLOVABLE, ↑loveless, ↑lovely, ↑loving, ↑unloved; noun: ↑love, ↑lover, loveliness., ↑lovey; verb: ↑love; adverb: ↑lovingly]
1. ROMANTIC ATTRACTION [transitive not in progressive] to have a strong feeling of ↑affection for someone, combined with sexual attraction:
I love you, Tracy.
He was the only man she had ever loved.
2. CARE ABOUT [transitive not in progressive] to care very much about someone, especially a member of your family or a close friend:
I love my grandad so much.
I’ve always loved children.
much-loved/well-loved
In 1941, her much-loved sister was killed in an accident.
Many people feel guilty after the death of a loved one.
3. LIKE/ENJOY [transitive] to like something very much or enjoy doing something very much:
I love carrots.
Jeff loves his work.
I love the way she sings that song.
Amy had always loved New York.
love doing something
I love going out to restaurants.
love to do something
We all love to talk about ourselves.
I’d love to (do something) spoken (=used to say that you would really like to do something)
‘Would you like to come swimming with us?’ ‘I’d love to.’
I’d have loved to have stayed till the end.
I’d love to know just why they did that.
4. LOYALTY [transitive not in progressive] to have a strong feeling of loyalty to your country, an institution etc:
Dad’s always loved the navy.
5. I love it! spoken used when you are amused by something, especially by someone else’s mistake or bad luck:
‘And then her boyfriend walked in and saw her kissing Ray.’ ‘I love it!’
6. sb’s going to love something spoken
a) used to say that someone will enjoy something:
Listen guys, you’re going to love this.
b) used to say that someone will not be pleased about something:
I’m going to love telling him we’ve changed our minds again.
⇨ ↑lover
• • •
THESAURUS
▪ love to like someone very much and care a lot about them – used about people in your family or someone who you are sexually attracted to: I love my wife and children very much. | Have you ever said ‘I love you’ and not really meant it?
▪ adore to love and admire someone very much: When she was a child she adored her father.
▪ be in love (with somebody) to feel that you love someone and want to have a romantic relationship with them: We were both young and very much in love. | Karen was in love with a man who was much older than her.
▪ be infatuated with somebody to love someone a lot and keep thinking about them, in a way that seems silly because you do not know them very well: He became infatuated with a woman he met at a conference.
▪ have a crush on somebody to love and be sexually attracted to someone you are not having a relationship with, usually someone older: Jane had a crush on the German teacher.
▪ be crazy about somebody informal to love someone very much – used for emphasis: She’s crazy about you.
▪ be devoted to somebody to love someone very much and give them a lot of attention: He was devoted to his wife and his children.
▪ dote on somebody written to love someone very much, especially a much younger family member, and behave very kindly to them: He dotes on his grandchildren.