The Difference Between “Appear,” “Arise,” “Emerge,” “Loom,” and “Show”
English learners often encounter verbs like appear, arise, emerge, loom, and show, which all relate to something becoming visible or noticeable. However, these words have subtle differences in meaning and usage. This guide will explore their distinctions with examples to help you use them correctly.
1. Appear
Appear means to become visible or to seem a certain way. It can be used both literally (something coming into sight) and figuratively (giving an impression).
- Literal meaning: “The sun appeared from behind the clouds.”
- Figurative meaning: “He appears to be upset.”
2. Arise
Arise means to come into existence or to happen, often referring to problems, situations, or opportunities. It is more abstract than “appear.”
- “A new problem arose during the meeting.”
- “Opportunities arise when you least expect them.”
3. Emerge
Emerge means to come out from a hidden or enclosed space, or to become known after being hidden. It often implies a gradual process.
- “The butterfly emerged from its cocoon.”
- “New evidence emerged in the investigation.”
4. Loom
Loom means to appear in a large, often threatening or unclear way. It suggests something is approaching ominously.
- “A storm loomed on the horizon.”
- “The deadline looms closer.”
5. Show
Show means to make something visible or evident, often intentionally. It can also mean to display or demonstrate.
- “She showed her ID at the entrance.”
- “The data shows an increase in sales.”
Comparison Table
| Verb | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Appear | Become visible or seem a certain way | “The stars appeared at night.” |
| Arise | Come into existence (often problems or situations) | “A conflict arose between them.” |
| Emerge | Come out from concealment or become known | “The truth emerged after years of research.” |
| Loom | Appear in a large, often threatening way | “Danger loomed ahead.” |
| Show | Make something visible or evident | “He showed his passport.” |
Key Takeaways
- Appear is general—something becomes visible or seems a certain way.
- Arise is used for abstract things like problems or opportunities.
- Emerge suggests coming out from hiding or becoming known.
- Loom implies a threatening or unclear presence.
- Show is more active—someone or something makes another thing visible.
Practice Sentences
Fill in the blanks with the correct verb (appear, arise, emerge, loom, show):
- The moon ___ in the night sky.
- A new opportunity ___ when the company expanded.
- Details about the scandal ___ after the investigation.
- Financial troubles ___ as the economy worsened.
- She ___ her ticket to the security guard.