be put on show

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be put on show" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something being displayed or exhibited for others to see, such as in a gallery or exhibition. Example: "The artist's latest work will be put on show at the local gallery next month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"The latest domestically manufactured electronic warfare equipment will also be put on show at the exhibition," the newspaper said.

The Guardian

Despite objections to the large, blue cockerel, Hahn/Cock by German artist Katharina Fritsch will be put on show.

The Guardian - Arts

The premise of Zoo Quest involved tracking down rare animals on location then bringing them back to the UK to be put on show to the paying public.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The Chinese replica of the Titanic will be put on show far from any icebergs, at Sichuan's Romandisea resort on the banks of the Qijiang river.

The Guardian

The men having necked a few bottles of spirits, the Old Man would call for my brother so he could be put on show.

The Guardian - Books

The technique of plastination that he invented – a method of impregnating bodies with plastic that allowed them to be dissected and disassembled so that all their working parts could be put on show – introduced anatomy to the layman.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Duplicates or replaceable items were put on show to be used and handled, an early example of today's ubiquitous hands-on museums.

The Guardian

Their conflicting properties – sometimes medicinal and at other times lethal - were put on show for our amusement as we basked in their beauty and cowered from their danger.

Independent

When they returned home from being "struggled against", they were isolated in separate rooms, though they were put on show again together at another Red Guard rally.

The Guardian

"A lot of veterans get to see the old tanks and military equipment they used once a year when they're put on show during parades," Mr. Stover said.

The New York Times - Science

The collection totals 5,000 pieces and the exhibit will be rotated every three years so all the splendours of the Portland collection are put on show, although the Van Dycks and Michelangelo will stay put.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be put on show" when you want to emphasize the act of presenting something for public viewing, often with an element of planning or intention. It's particularly suitable when the item is being deliberately arranged for display, such as in an exhibition or museum setting.

Common error

While "be put on show" is a valid expression, avoid overusing it in formal writing where a more direct alternative like "be displayed" might be clearer and more concise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be put on show" functions as a passive verb construction, indicating that the subject is receiving the action of being displayed or exhibited. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be put on show" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that signifies something is being displayed or exhibited for public viewing. While considered uncommon in frequency, it's primarily found in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, highlighting its use in describing planned presentations, such as those in museums or exhibitions. While effective, writers should consider more direct alternatives like "be displayed" in formal contexts to maintain clarity and conciseness. Related phrases offer nuanced variations, capturing different aspects of presentation and visibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be displayed

This is a more direct and commonly used synonym, lacking the idiomatic feel of the original phrase.

be exhibited

Similar to "be displayed" but often implies a more formal or curated presentation, like in a museum.

be showcased

Suggests highlighting the best features of something, giving it prominence.

be unveiled

Implies a formal revealing or introduction of something new.

be presented

A general term for making something available to be seen or considered.

be put on view

A more literal and less common alternative, meaning to place something where it can be seen.

be made visible

Focuses on the act of making something able to be seen, often after it was hidden.

be opened to the public

Emphasizes the accessibility of something to a general audience.

be demonstrated

Highlights the act of showing how something works or its qualities, often in a practical context.

be trotted out

A more informal and sometimes cynical term for displaying something, often repeatedly or for a specific purpose.

FAQs

What does "be put on show" mean?

The phrase "be put on show" means that something is arranged or displayed so that people can see it, often in a formal setting like a museum or exhibition. It implies a deliberate act of making something visible to the public.

When is it appropriate to use "be put on show" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "be put on show" when you want to emphasize the act of presenting something for public viewing with a degree of intention or planning. In some formal contexts a more direct alternative such as "be displayed" may be preferred.

What are some alternatives to "be put on show"?

You can use alternatives like "be displayed", "be exhibited", or "be showcased" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "be put on show" formal or informal?

"Be put on show" falls in a relatively neutral register, though more direct alternatives may be more appropriate for very formal contexts. It is suitable for news articles and general writing. Context is paramount in determining the best phrasing.