quite a show

USAGE SUMMARY

"quite a show" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to either a literal show, such as a performance, or a metaphorical show, such as a display of strong emotion or behavior. For example: "She put on quite a show when her favorite team won the championship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It was quite a show.

The New York Times

It got to be quite a show".

The New Yorker

"That was quite a show," he recalled.

The New York Times - Arts

It was quite a show nevertheless.

The New Yorker

It had been quite a show.

The New Yorker

Anyway, it was quite a show.

The New York Times

You always put on quite a show.

The New York Times

Ms. Dessay puts on quite a show.

The New York Times - Arts

It should be quite a show.

The Guardian - Sport

It is shaping up to be quite a show.

The New York Times - Sports

It's nowhere close, but it is quite a show.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "quite a show" to describe events or situations that are remarkably impressive, entertaining, or dramatic. It's suitable for both literal performances and metaphorical displays of behavior or emotion.

Common error

While "quite a show" is widely understood, it might sound too informal in academic papers or business reports. Consider stronger, more formal synonyms like "remarkable event" or "impressive display" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite a show" functions primarily as an adjectival phrase modifying an implied noun, suggesting that something was remarkably impressive or entertaining. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and offers numerous examples of usage in context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quite a show" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe something impressively entertaining or dramatic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's prevalent in news and media but may be too informal for academic or business writing. When writing, consider stronger synonyms like "remarkable event" for formal contexts, and remember that this phrase generally intends to convey admiration or amusement. Although very common according to Ludwig, it's vital to consider the audience and purpose for your writing when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quite a spectacle

Replaces "show" with "spectacle", emphasizing the visual grandeur of the event.

quite a performance

Substitutes "show" with "performance", directly highlighting the skill or artistry involved.

quite a display

Uses "display" instead of "show", focusing on the impressive arrangement or presentation.

quite a sight

Replaces "show" with "sight", emphasizing the visual aspect and how impressive it is to see.

remarkable event

Emphasizes the noteworthiness and impressiveness of the event, replacing the more colloquial "quite a show".

memorable occasion

Focuses on the lasting impression the event makes, rather than its immediate spectacular nature.

amazing scene

Highlights the setting or environment and the surprising or wonderful quality of it.

impressive exhibition

Similar to 'quite a display', but this emphasizes a more formal presentation.

extraordinary affair

Highlights the uniqueness and exceptional quality of the event.

noteworthy presentation

Focuses on the way something is presented and its relevance.

FAQs

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

You can use "quite a show" to describe an impressive performance, event, or display. For example, "The fireworks display was "quite a show" this year" or "His outburst at the meeting was "quite a show"".

What can I say instead of "quite a show"?

Alternatives to "quite a show" include "quite a spectacle", "quite a performance", or "impressive display", depending on the specific context.

Is "quite a show" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "quite a show" leans towards informal usage. In formal writing, consider more sophisticated alternatives like "remarkable event" or "noteworthy presentation".

What's the difference between "quite a show" and "quite a sight"?

"Quite a show" typically refers to an organized event or performance, while "quite a sight" emphasizes the visual impressiveness of something, whether planned or naturally occurring.