show me

USAGE SUMMARY

"show me" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is often used when someone is asking to be shown something, such as "Show me your identification." You could also use it as a request for someone to display something, such as "Show me your best work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Show me, it's show-me time.

The New Yorker

Show me your ID".

The New York Times

Show me your record".

Independent

Show me those opinions!

The New York Times

Show me blue!

The New York Times

Show me results.

The New Yorker

Show me your smile".

The New York Times

"Show me your hands!

The New York Times

Show me a policy.

The New York Times

Show me the funny!

The New Yorker

C'mon, show me.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "show me" when you want someone to provide visual or practical evidence, not just a verbal explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "show me" when you're seeking theoretical or conceptual understanding. Instead, opt for phrases like "explain to me" or "help me understand".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show me" functions as an imperative, directly requesting someone to provide a demonstration or visual evidence. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in various contexts, from requesting identification to demanding results.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

25%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "show me" is a common and grammatically sound imperative phrase used to directly request a demonstration or tangible evidence. According to Ludwig AI, it functions primarily to elicit practical proof, making it suitable for neutral to informal contexts. While versatile, it's most frequently found in news, media, and wiki sources. To avoid misusing the phrase, remember it's best reserved for situations where visual or practical evidence is sought, rather than theoretical explanations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let me see

A more casual way of asking to be shown something.

demonstrate to me

Replaces "show" with a more formal verb, emphasizing a detailed explanation.

illustrate for me

Focuses on providing a visual or practical example.

reveal to me

Suggests uncovering something hidden or not immediately obvious.

prove it to me

Adds a layer of skepticism, demanding evidence of a claim.

present to me

Implies a formal introduction or display of something.

walk me through it

Implies a step-by-step explanation or demonstration.

give me an example

Requests a specific instance or case to clarify a point.

unfold before me

Suggests a gradual revelation or unfolding of events.

bring it to my attention

Requests something be made noticeable.

FAQs

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

You can use "show me" to request a demonstration or evidence, as in "Show me how to solve this problem" or "Show me the data that supports your claim".

What's a more formal alternative to "show me"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "demonstrate to me" or "illustrate for me". These options are suitable in professional or academic settings.

When is it inappropriate to use "show me"?

It's best to avoid "show me" when you need a verbal explanation or theoretical understanding. In those cases, asking someone to "explain to me" is more appropriate.

What does it mean when someone says, "I'm from Missouri, show me"?

This saying, often shortened to "Show me", is used to express skepticism and a demand for concrete evidence or proof, reflecting Missouri's state motto.