be shown how

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be shown how" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone will receive guidance or instruction on how to do something. Example: "I would like to be shown how to operate this machine properly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They need to be shown how to use public transportation.

The New Yorker

And if it's about food, you'll be shown how much/little you eat in a week.

The Guardian

Young men have to be shown how wonderful and satisfying it is to be a priest".

The New York Times

It's an unlikely sounding job description: do children really need to be shown how to play?

The Guardian

Is it that funny, though, to be shown how to fake your own death from AIDS?

The New Yorker

It could be shown how the conditions at the α/γ interface vary with the velocity.

Acta Materialia

It will be shown how the polyolefin properties can be controlled via rational catalyst design.

Catalysis Today

It will also be shown how re-lubrication will enhance the bearing performance.

Tribology International

Thirdly, it will be shown how the aspects relating to undesired foam formation can be managed.

Progress in Organic Coatings

It will be shown how such methodologies can be readily assimilated into the software architecture.

ISA Transactions

You'll get help installing the program and be shown how to use the new features.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be shown how" when you want to emphasize the demonstration aspect of learning a new skill or process. It's particularly effective when visual learning is involved.

Common error

Avoid using "be shown how" in active voice constructions. For example, instead of "Show me how to do it", use "I need to be shown how to do it" to maintain the passive voice construction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be shown how" functions as a passive construction indicating the need for instruction or demonstration. Ludwig shows its use in various contexts, emphasizing the reception of guidance rather than active performance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be shown how" is a common and grammatically sound passive construction used to express the need for instruction or demonstration. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While alternatives like "be taught how" and "be instructed on how" exist, "be shown how" specifically emphasizes the visual or practical aspect of learning. It's important to use this phrase in passive constructions and to remember that it indicates the reception of guidance. Proper use of "be shown how" can enhance clarity and effectiveness in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be taught how

Replaces "shown" with "taught", implying a more formal or in-depth learning process.

be instructed on how

Uses "instructed" for a more formal tone, suggesting a structured lesson or set of directions.

receive guidance on

Focuses on the act of receiving guidance rather than a demonstration.

get a demonstration of

Highlights the visual aspect of learning by demonstration.

learn the process of

Emphasizes understanding the steps involved in a task.

be given a tutorial on

Suggests a step-by-step explanation or lesson.

be walked through

Implies a guided, step-by-step explanation or demonstration.

be coached in

Implies a more personal and supportive form of instruction.

be mentored in

Suggests a long-term, advisory relationship focused on skill development.

be advised on

Focuses on receiving expert advice or recommendations.

FAQs

How can I use "be shown how" in a sentence?

Use "be shown how" when you want to express that someone needs to receive a demonstration or instruction on how to do something. For example: "The students need to "be shown how" to use the equipment safely."

What are some alternatives to "be shown how"?

You can use alternatives like "be taught how", "be instructed on how", or "receive guidance on" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "be instructed on how" instead of "be shown how"?

Yes, "be instructed on how" generally carries a more formal tone compared to "be shown how", which is more neutral. The best choice depends on your audience and the level of formality required.

What's the difference between "be shown how" and "be walked through"?

"Be shown how" emphasizes the visual demonstration aspect of learning, while "be walked through" suggests a step-by-step explanation or guided process. The former focuses on seeing, while the latter focuses on following a process.