show a gesture

USAGE SUMMARY

'show a gesture' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a physical action. For example, "He showed a gesture of approval when he heard the news."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Mutt 1917," to an art show, a gesture still preposterously resonant.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The US has recognised Taiwan as part of China since 1979 and its status is "non-negotiable", said Pei. Branstad is an interesting pick and "shows a gesture that he wants to keep the relationship on an even keel".

The Guardian - Business

Two Palestinian men protect a cowering Israeli policewoman in a photo showing a gesture of humanism.

Huffington Post

Crystal Palace are working with the police to identify an individual after a video emerged appearing to show a supporter making a gesture mocking the Munich air disaster.

BBC

It's so much easier to show colleagues a gesture or shape by singing it rather than trying to explain in words.

The Guardian - Music

"Because American cars were the prototype of the car industry, I don't think they're showing a friendly gesture or any signaling," she said.

The New York Times

You just never know". The Clippers showed a symbolic gesture of unity before the game.

Los Angeles Times

Some applications show a visual trace of gesture input being made by the user, whereas others do not.

International Journal of Child-Computer Interaction

One shows a woman gesturing wildly after perhaps dropping fag ash on her flowing paisley-print dress.

Independent

After all, for some people a will is not just a list of bequests; it's a chance to leave a loved-one a final thoughtful gesture, or show a hopeful relative how much you preferred the dog to them.

The Guardian - Money

He recalled that on his 75th birthday party, 45 of his ex-players showed up; and when he turned 80, his perennial 1960s victim Wilt Chamberlain showed up, a gesture which Auerbach dearly appreciated.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "show a gesture", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the gesture is meant to convey or represent. Clarity is key in effective communication.

Common error

While "show a gesture" is grammatically sound, overuse in formal writing can make the text sound less sophisticated. Consider using synonyms like "make a gesture" or "demonstrate a gesture" to add variety and enhance readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show a gesture" functions as a verb phrase where "show" is the main verb and "a gesture" is the direct object. It describes the act of demonstrating something through a physical action or expression. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

20%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "show a gesture" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the act of expressing something through a physical action or expression. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, especially when aiming to describe a non-verbal form of communication. While not exceedingly common, it is appropriate for various contexts, with a slight prevalence in news and media. For enhanced writing, consider related phrases like "make a gesture" or "indicate with a gesture" to ensure clarity and stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a gesture

This alternative replaces "show" with "make", focusing on the act of performing the gesture.

display a gesture

Using "display" emphasizes the visibility and presentation of the gesture.

demonstrate a gesture

"Demonstrate" implies a deliberate and clear showing of the gesture, often for instructional purposes.

indicate with a gesture

This alternative shifts the focus to the communicative aspect of the gesture, emphasizing that it serves as an indicator.

express through a gesture

"Express" focuses on the gesture as a means of conveying an emotion or thought.

convey with a gesture

Similar to "express", this emphasizes the communication aspect of the gesture.

reveal a gesture

"Reveal" suggests that the gesture uncovers or makes something known.

present a gesture

Using "present" suggests a formal or deliberate offering of the gesture.

offer a gesture

This highlights the gesture as a voluntary action or offering.

perform a gesture

"Perform" emphasizes the execution and action involved in the gesture.

FAQs

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

You can use "show a gesture" to describe someone performing an action that communicates something non-verbally. For example, "He "showed a gesture" of goodwill by offering assistance."

What are some alternatives to "show a gesture"?

Alternatives include "make a gesture", "display a gesture", or "indicate with a gesture", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "show a gesture" or "make a gesture"?

Both "show a gesture" and "make a gesture" are correct. The choice depends on your preferred style and the specific context. "Make a gesture" might be slightly more common in contemporary usage.

What does it mean to "show a gesture" of support?

To "show a gesture" of support means to demonstrate your backing or approval through a specific action. This could involve participating in an event, donating to a cause, or publicly expressing your solidarity.