make a show of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a show of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the act of displaying something ostentatiously or for the purpose of attracting attention. Example: "He made a show of his generosity by donating a large sum to charity in front of the cameras."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The candidates make a show of disemboweling one another.

The New York Times

We don't make a show of how fertile we are.

Independent

Other times, they make a show of it.

The New York Times

He doesn't make a show of being a director or boss.

Independent

In fact, their leaders make a show of being very sore losers indeed.

The New York Times

Usually, by that time in an American campaign, contestants make a show of burying the hatchet.

The New York Times - Magazine

Showy pennypinching isn't reserved to those who make a show of how exotic they are.

The Guardian - Opinion

If we support simplistic solutions, we make a show of acting while in reality doing nothing.

The Guardian - Opinion

To make a show of action, they detained the musicians' bus.

The New York Times

"She is low key and does not make a show of herself".

The New York Times

"My mother and father always said don't make a show of yourself.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a show of" when you want to emphasize that someone is deliberately displaying something, often to impress others or create a particular impression. For example, "The politician made a show of visiting the disaster area to boost his public image."

Common error

Avoid using "make a show of" when describing genuine emotions or actions. This phrase implies insincerity or an ulterior motive. Instead, use more neutral language to describe authentic behavior.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a show of" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It typically precedes a noun or gerund, indicating a deliberate and often insincere display. As Ludwig suggests, the phrase is commonly used to describe actions intended to impress or mislead.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make a show of" is a common and grammatically correct idiomatic expression used to describe an ostentatious or exaggerated display, often with the implication of insincerity. According to Ludwig, its primary function is to criticize or question the authenticity of an action, suggesting that appearance is valued over genuine intent. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts. Alternatives include "put on a display of" and "flaunt". Remember to use it judiciously, ensuring the context aligns with the inherent implication of insincerity or pretense.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a spectacle of

Emphasizes the dramatic and public nature of the display, often with negative connotations.

put on a display of

Focuses on the act of displaying something, adding emphasis on the visible presentation.

ostentatiously display

Directly emphasizes the intention to impress through a lavish display.

flaunt

Implies showing off something desirable with pride and arrogance.

parade

Suggests a deliberate and often organized display for public viewing.

grandstand

Implies performing for attention or applause, often in a political or theatrical context.

exhibit ostentatiously

Highlights the excessive and attention-seeking nature of the display.

act pretentiously

Shifts focus to behavior marked by affected or artificial mannerisms to impress.

perform theatrically

Focuses on the overly dramatic and staged quality of the performance.

put on airs

Suggests an attempt to appear superior or more important than one actually is.

FAQs

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

The phrase "make a show of" indicates an ostentatious or exaggerated display, often implying insincerity. For example: "The company made a show of supporting local charities, but its donations were minimal."

What does it mean to "make a show of" something?

To "make a show of" something means to display it in an exaggerated or ostentatious way, often with the intention of impressing others or creating a particular impression. It often suggests that the display is not entirely sincere.

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

You can use alternatives like "put on a display of", "flaunt", or "make a spectacle of" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "do a show of" instead of "make a show of"?

While "do a show" is grammatically correct in other contexts (e.g., "do a show" on Broadway), it's not interchangeable with "make a show of". The correct idiom for ostentatious display is "make a show of".