a big show of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big show of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a display or demonstration that is exaggerated or intended to attract attention. Example: "The politician made a big show of his charity work during the campaign to gain public favor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A big show of force is likely.

The Economist

Often, extremely wealthy people make a big show of tipping.

The New Yorker

"Make a big show of shouting down the phone!

The Guardian - Books

"It's a big show of force," he told me.

The New Yorker

He made a big show of effort as he shifted gears with his right hand.

The New Yorker

A big show of force can sometimes deter criminals from starting a fight.

The Economist

Milan likes to make a big show of its tailoring and handcraft.

The New York Times

And he makes a big show of the fact he reads.

The New Yorker

Mr. Obama made a big show of fulfilling his campaign promises right away.

The New York Times

Yesterday, he made a big show of riding his horse to his polling place.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Moxley also reflects, cuttingly, on literary culture: "Strangely, people often give authority to writers who make a big show / of being against it".

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a big show of" to describe actions or displays intended to attract attention, often in a slightly critical or ironic way. For example, "The company made a big show of donating to charity, but their environmental practices remained questionable."

Common error

Avoid using "a big show of" when describing genuine, understated displays of emotion or effort. The phrase often implies exaggeration or insincerity. Opt for more neutral language to accurately reflect the intended tone.

Linguistic Context

"A big show of" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as an object or complement in a sentence. Ludwig highlights this through numerous examples where the phrase describes an action or event intended to be noticed or impactful. Its function is to describe an action, a feeling or a display.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big show of" is a frequently used noun phrase that describes a display or action designed to attract attention, often with a subtle implication of insincerity or exaggeration. Ludwig confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It appears most commonly in news and media contexts, with neutral register and a tendency to express criticism or skepticism. Related phrases include "grand display of" and "ostentatious demonstration of", which further emphasize the performative aspect. When writing, use "a big show of" judiciously, being mindful of its potential to convey a critical or ironic tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a grand display of

Replaces "show" with "display", emphasizing the visual aspect and impressiveness.

an ostentatious demonstration of

Substitutes "big show" with "ostentatious demonstration", highlighting the boastful and attention-seeking nature.

a conspicuous display of

Replaces "big show" with "conspicuous display", highlighting the obviousness and visibility.

an impressive demonstration of

Replaces "big show" with "impressive demonstration", focusing on the admirable or remarkable nature.

a public exhibition of

Replaces "show" with "exhibition", focusing on the public and visible aspect.

a flamboyant presentation of

Uses "flamboyant presentation" instead of "big show", emphasizing the theatrical and elaborate style.

a pretentious exhibition of

Substitutes "big show" with "pretentious exhibition", emphasizing the attempt to impress with perceived importance.

an elaborate performance of

Uses "elaborate performance" instead of "big show", emphasizing the carefully planned and detailed nature.

a theatrical display of

Replaces "show" with "theatrical display", highlighting the dramatic and staged aspect.

a marked display of

Uses "marked display" instead of "big show", emphasizing the noticeable and evident quality.

FAQs

How can "a big show of" be used in a sentence?

You can use "a big show of" to describe someone making an excessive display of something. For example, "He made "a big show of generosity" by donating a large sum to charity during the televised event.

What are some alternatives to "a big show of"?

Alternatives include "grand display of", "ostentatious demonstration of", or "public exhibition of", each subtly altering the emphasis of the phrase.

Is it always negative to describe something as "a big show of"?

While "a big show of" often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying insincerity or exaggeration, it can also simply describe a large or impressive display without necessarily being critical. The context determines the tone.

How does "a big show of" differ from "a genuine display of"?

"A big show of" suggests an intention to impress or attract attention, while "a genuine display of" indicates sincerity and authenticity. The former might be perceived as performative, while the latter is seen as heartfelt.