a show of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a show of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate an exhibition or demonstration of a particular quality, feeling, or action. Example: "The event was a show of solidarity among the community members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's a show of incompetence".

The New York Times

They were making "a show of force".

The New Yorker

As a show of good faith, Pres.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Making a show of its grief.

Independent

Let's see a show of hands.

The New York Times

Can I see a show of hands?

The New York Times

He made a show of denying it.

The New York Times - Arts

May I see a show of hands?

The New York Times

Let me see a show of hands.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

He had a showing of his films.

The New York Times

It requires a showing of premeditation.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a show of" to clearly convey a public or visible display of an emotion, quality, or power. For example, "The community organized "a show of" support for the victims."

Common error

Avoid using "a show of" when the intent is to describe genuine, heartfelt feelings rather than a deliberate demonstration. For instance, instead of saying "It was just "a show of" grief," express the actual emotion felt, like "The grief was palpable."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a show of" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically introduces a noun that represents something being displayed or demonstrated. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a show of" is a versatile phrase used to describe a visible display or demonstration. Ludwig AI analysis indicates it is grammatically correct and very commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts. It functions as a noun phrase and serves to emphasize the action or quality being displayed. When writing, use "a show of" to effectively convey deliberate exhibitions of qualities such as support, force, or emotion. Remember to consider the context to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the intended meaning, differentiating it from genuine expressions or feelings. Alternative phrases like "an exhibition of" or "a display of" can provide nuanced alternatives depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an exhibition of

Replaces 'show' with 'exhibition', emphasizing a public display.

a display of

Uses 'display' instead of 'show', highlighting the act of presenting something visually.

a demonstration of

Substitutes 'show' with 'demonstration', focusing on proving or illustrating something.

a manifestation of

Replaces 'show' with 'manifestation', suggesting a visible or tangible form of something abstract.

an expression of

Uses 'expression' instead of 'show', emphasizing the communication of a feeling or idea.

a presentation of

Changes 'show' to 'presentation', focusing on formally displaying information or ideas.

a semblance of

Employs 'semblance' instead of 'show', indicating an outward appearance or imitation.

a facade of

Substitutes 'show' with 'facade', suggesting a deceptive outward appearance.

an indication of

Replaces 'show' with 'indication', focusing on something that suggests a particular fact or state.

a pretense of

Uses 'pretense' instead of 'show', indicating a false display of something.

FAQs

How can I use "a show of" in a sentence?

The phrase "a show of" is used to describe a visible display or demonstration of something. For example, "The protesters staged "a show of" solidarity" or "The military conducted "a show of" force."

What phrases are similar to "a show of"?

Similar phrases include "an exhibition of", "a display of", and "a demonstration of". These alternatives can be used to indicate a visible or public display of something.

Is "a show of" formal or informal?

The phrase "a show of" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the specific situation.

What's the difference between "a show of force" and "use of force"?

"A show of force" implies a demonstration of power intended to intimidate or deter, while "use of force" refers to the actual application of power or violence. For example, a military parade might be "a show of force", whereas engaging in combat is a use of force.