English Phrasal Verbs With “Show”
Phrasal verbs are an essential part of English vocabulary, especially for learners aiming to sound more natural in conversation. The verb “show” combines with various prepositions or adverbs to form phrasal verbs with distinct meanings. Below is a comprehensive guide to phrasal verbs with “show,” including definitions, examples, and exercises.
1. Show Off
Meaning: To display something or someone proudly, often to impress others. It can also mean to behave in a way that attracts attention.
- He loves to show off his new car to his friends.
- She showed off her dancing skills at the party.
- Stop showing off—we know you’re good at math!
2. Show Up
Meaning: To arrive or appear somewhere, often unexpectedly or after a delay.
- He finally showed up at the meeting 30 minutes late.
- Only five people showed up for the event.
- She didn’t expect him to show up at her door.
3. Show Around
Meaning: To guide someone through a place, giving them a tour.
- The manager showed the new employee around the office.
- Can you show our guests around the city?
- She showed me around her new house.
4. Show Through
Meaning: To be visible despite something covering or hiding it.
- Her excitement showed through her nervousness.
- The light showed through the thin curtains.
- His true feelings showed through his fake smile.
5. Show In
Meaning: To lead or invite someone into a place, usually a room or building.
- The receptionist showed the visitors in.
- Please show the guests in when they arrive.
- He was shown in by the butler.
6. Show Out
Meaning: To escort someone out of a place politely.
- The secretary showed the client out after the meeting.
- She showed her friend out and thanked her for coming.
- The security guard showed the intruder out.
7. Show Over
Meaning: To display something by moving around it or presenting it in detail.
- The real estate agent showed the couple over the house.
- He showed me over the new project plans.
- The guide showed the tourists over the historical site.
Exercises
Test your understanding of phrasal verbs with “show” by completing the following exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Choose the correct phrasal verb from the list below to complete each sentence.
- show off | show up | show around | show through | show in | show out | show over
- She loves to __________ her expensive jewelry at parties.
- Only ten people __________ for the concert because of the rain.
- Can you __________ the new intern __________ the office?
- His kindness always __________, even when he tries to hide it.
- The host __________ the guests __________ after dinner.
Exercise 2: Rewrite the Sentences
Replace the underlined words with the correct phrasal verb.
- He arrived late for the meeting. (__________)
- She displayed her new dress to everyone. (__________)
- The teacher guided the students through the museum. (__________)
Exercise 3: Create Your Own Sentences
Write three sentences using any of the phrasal verbs with “show” discussed above.
- ________________________________________________________
- ________________________________________________________
- ________________________________________________________
Phrasal Verb | Meaning |
---|---|
Show off | To display proudly or attract attention |
Show up | To arrive or appear |
Show around | To give a tour |
Show through | To be visible despite something |
Show in | To lead someone inside |
Show out | To escort someone out |
Show over | To display in detail |
By mastering these phrasal verbs, English learners can enhance their fluency and comprehension in everyday conversations.