show stealer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show stealer" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a person or performance that attracts more attention than others, often in a theatrical or entertainment context. Example: "In the play, the young actress was a true show stealer, captivating the audience with her powerful performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

The show stealer of many a Crime Mob track is Princess, a tough-talking provocateur who often seems to be having more fun than everyone else.

The New York Times - Arts

The show stealer, however, was Ms. Escovedo, who is a far more versatile percussionist than was sometimes evident in her lingerie-wearing Prince days.

The New York Times - Arts

If Nance Williamson weren't supremely versed in the art of ensemble, some newcomer to theater could suspect that she is a show stealer.

The New York Times

Wesley So won the London Classic and the four-event Grand Tour but the show stealer at Kensington Olympia last weekend was Valentina Gunina.

The Guardian - Sport

The orchestra shone throughout, but with "The Seven Deadly Sins," Detroit inherited that show stealer Ms. Large, who is best known for her popsier work with Pink Martini and other bands.

The New York Times - Arts

But the show stealer is Seward, whom Lincoln named Secretary of State — a short, big-nosed, industrious, and highly principled senator from New York, who was later responsible for the purchase of Alaska.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

The show stealers, though, are Jeffrey M. Bender as Bread and Andy Paterson as Tylo the Dog.

The New York Times

The repeat-appearance kooks – Will Arnett's Devon Banks and Marceline Hugot's Kathy Geiss – and the one-off show stealers (Wayne Brady as Liz's dull date).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A slow start and a strong finish that solidified Bianca Belair and Shayna Baszler as certified show stealers.

Forbes

On to the mains, which I hoped would be the show stealers, we opted for an all-seafood meal.

Huffington Post

The food is the show-stealer here.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "show stealer" to describe someone or something unexpectedly captivating that surpasses expectations in a particular context.

Common error

Avoid using "show stealer" to describe everyday situations that lack a performance or event aspect. It's best suited for contexts involving entertainment, sports, or presentations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show stealer" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or appositive. It identifies the entity that unexpectedly attracts the most attention and acclaim, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "show stealer" is a noun phrase that accurately describes a person, performance, or thing that unexpectedly becomes the most captivating or memorable aspect of a show, event, or situation. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage, particularly within news and media contexts. To enhance your writing, use "show stealer" to add vividness and impact when describing moments of surprising excellence. When this phrase is not appropriate you can choose to use other expressions such as "scene stealer", "star of the show" or "highlight of the event".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

scene stealer

Focuses on stealing a particular scene rather than the entire show.

star of the show

Highlights the person or thing as the most important or celebrated element.

highlight of the event

Emphasizes the event's most memorable or exciting part.

the main attraction

Identifies the primary draw or focus of the event.

top performer

Specifically refers to a person who delivers an outstanding performance.

standout performance

Describes a performance that is noticeably superior to others.

shining star

Implies brilliance and exceptional talent.

crowd pleaser

Indicates something that is very popular and well-received by the audience.

showstopper

Refers to a performance so impressive it stops the show.

head turner

Implies something or someone that is visually striking or attention-grabbing.

FAQs

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

You can use "show stealer" to describe a person, object, or event that unexpectedly becomes the most captivating part of a performance or situation. For example, "The comedian's impromptu act was the "show stealer" of the night".

What can I say instead of "show stealer"?

You can use alternatives like "scene stealer", "star of the show", or "highlight of the event" depending on the context.

Is "show stealer" the same as "scene stealer"?

While similar, "scene stealer" typically refers to someone who steals a particular scene, while "show stealer" implies a more overarching dominance throughout the entire show or event.

Which is correct, "show stealer" or "show-stealer"?

"Show stealer" is generally used as two separate words. While "show-stealer" might be occasionally seen, it's less common.