show well

USAGE SUMMARY

"show well" is not correct and usable in written English.
You could use the phrase "show well" in spoken English to indicate that someone is doing a good job or is performing an activity well. For example, "He's really showing well in his new job."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Hopefully I can show well".

The New York Times

You want to show well.

The New York Times - Sports

I wish the show well".

The Guardian

I thought he didn't show well".

The Guardian - Sport

On a chill, gray November day, it will show well.

The New York Times

As-fabricated PtAu alloy clusters show well electrocatalytic activity.

Journal of Alloys and Compounds

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Structural characterizations by transmission electron microscopy show well-integrated nanoarchitectures.

Applied Catalysis B: Environmental

Some minutely crystalline rocks show well-developed perlitic structure and undoubtedly represent completely devitrified perlite.

Britannica

Others show well-known cartoon figures like Hello Kitty or Marvel Comics heroes.

The New York Times - Tech

Images show well-defined lymphatic structures with propulsive dye transport in limbs of healthy subjects.

Translational Oncology

Modern diatom and stable isotope analyses show well-mixed freshwater bodies with eutrophic, alkaline conditions.

Journal of Asian Earth Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing visual appeal, use "look good" or "appear attractive" instead of "show well" to describe something.

Common error

Avoid using "show well" in formal writing where a more precise term like "perform well" or "demonstrate clearly" would enhance clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show well" functions as a phrasal verb where "show" is the verb and "well" is an adverb modifying it. It generally describes the manner in which something appears or performs. Ludwig AI notes that it is not correct and usable in written English and you should use the phrase "show well" in spoken English to indicate that someone is doing a good job or is performing an activity well.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "show well" is used to describe something that presents itself favorably or performs effectively. While Ludwig identifies the phrase as not correct and usable in written English, it appears in a variety of contexts, including news articles, scientific publications, and wikis. Due to its potential ambiguity, using clearer alternatives like "perform effectively", "display prominently", or "present favorably" is generally recommended, especially in formal writing. The expert rating reflects a balance between source authority and concerns regarding grammatical correctness and usage consistency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perform effectively

Replaces "show well" with a more formal and precise expression focusing on performance quality.

display prominently

Emphasizes the act of making something visible and noticeable in a positive way.

present favorably

Highlights the act of showcasing something in a positive and advantageous manner.

fare well

Focuses on the outcome or success of something, rather than the act of showing.

behave appropriately

Shifts the focus to conduct and mannerisms that are perceived as positive.

conduct oneself admirably

Emphasizes behavior and personal conduct in a commendable way.

function optimally

Replaces "show well" with a focus on efficient and effective functioning.

prove successful

Highlights the positive outcome or achievement rather than the act of demonstrating ability.

demonstrate competence

Emphasizes showcasing one's skills and abilities effectively.

look appealing

Highlights the visual attractiveness of something when being shown or displayed.

FAQs

What does "show well" mean?

The phrase "show well" generally suggests that something is performing adequately or presenting itself in a favorable manner. However, its exact meaning is context-dependent and can often be replaced with clearer alternatives.

What can I say instead of "show well"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "perform effectively", "display prominently", or "present favorably".

Is "show well" grammatically correct?

While not strictly incorrect, "show well" can be ambiguous and may sound awkward in formal writing. More precise alternatives often provide greater clarity.

When is it appropriate to use "show well"?

It is more appropriate to use "show well" in informal contexts or when quick communication is prioritized. However, always consider if a more precise phrase like "fare well" or "look appealing" would be clearer.