show some attitude

USAGE SUMMARY

"show some attitude" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used as a way to encourage someone to be more assertive and confident in their actions. For example, you could say: "I know you can do better on that test. Just show some attitude and you'll be sure to ace it!".

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Owens: It was to again show our friends, show our city, show some attitude.

The New York Times

Show some attitude.

WikiHow

Show some attitude as you do the dance.

WikiHow

Also, consider wearing hot pink & black chunky bracelets to show some attitude.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

If we're bad, we're bad, but we've at least got to show some fucking attitude and try.

The Guardian - Sport

If we're bad, we're bad, mate, but we've at least got to show some fucking attitude and try.

The Guardian - Sport

The oldest subset of Americans, those 80 years or older, have also shown some change in attitude over time but remain the least favorable or any age group.

Huffington Post

Findings from a 2011 survey in Ireland showed some hardening of attitudes across all types of disability; 37%-69% of the public felt that people with disability could have children if they wish.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Shapiro and Sims (2014) have presented preliminary results from their strengths-based intervention that showed some improvements in parents' attitudes and skills, along with some increase in the children's levels of resilience, as measured by the Devereux childhood assessment scales [ 22, 30].

BMC Public Health

Dixon, who helps run the Center for Social Impact Communication at Georgetown University, showed some striking examples of this attitude, including a UNICEF Sweden ad campaign that included the headline, "Like us on Facebook, and we will vaccinate zero children against polio".

Huffington Post

But I'm human, I have to show my attitude.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "show some attitude" when you want to encourage someone to express themselves more assertively or confidently in a given situation.

Common error

Avoid using "show some attitude" when you actually want someone to be more agreeable or compliant. The phrase typically implies a degree of self-assertion or defiance, not necessarily cooperation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show some attitude" functions primarily as an imperative, urging someone to exhibit a particular demeanor or express themselves more assertively. As confirmed by Ludwig, it encourages a display of confidence or defiance. The phrase serves to prompt action.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "show some attitude" is an imperative phrase used to encourage assertiveness or a particular demeanor. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and usable, fitting primarily in informal contexts. While relatively rare, the phrase appears in both news and media and wiki sources, suggesting versatility in its application. To avoid misuse, remember that "attitude" in this context implies self-expression and confidence, not necessarily compliance or agreement. If you're looking for alternatives, consider "display some confidence" or "assert yourself a little".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assert yourself a little

Focuses on being more forceful in expressing opinions.

display some confidence

Emphasizes self-assurance rather than general demeanor.

exhibit some boldness

Focuses on courage and daring behavior.

express some conviction

Emphasizes the strength of one's beliefs.

project some sass

Implies a playful and impudent attitude.

muster a little audacity

Highlights a willingness to take bold risks.

demonstrate some spirit

Highlights enthusiasm and liveliness.

reveal a touch of defiance

Suggests a subtle display of resistance.

adopt a defiant stance

Suggests resistance and opposition.

put on a brave face

Implies concealing fear or sadness with a show of courage.

FAQs

How can I use "show some attitude" in a sentence?

You can use "show some attitude" to encourage someone to be more assertive or confident. For example, "If you want to win this competition, you need to "show some attitude" and believe in yourself."

What does it mean to "show some attitude"?

To "show some attitude" means to display a particular demeanor or assertiveness, often indicating confidence, defiance, or a strong personal expression. It's about projecting a specific feeling or stance through your behavior.

What are some alternatives to "show some attitude"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "display some confidence", "exhibit some boldness", or "assert yourself a little".

When is it appropriate to tell someone to "show some attitude"?

It's appropriate to use "show some attitude" when you want to encourage someone to be more assertive, confident, or expressive, particularly in situations where they might be hesitant or lacking self-assurance.