shows how

USAGE SUMMARY

"shows how" is a grammatically correct phrase that is commonly used in written English.
You can use it to introduce a clause that explains or illustrates the process or means by which something is achieved or happens. Example: "The tutorial video shows how to make a delicious lasagna from scratch." In this example, "shows how" introduces the method or process of making lasagna.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Shows how annualising can distort.

The Economist

Six Flags potentially shows how.

The New York Times

Valeant Shows How M.&A.

The New York Times

Shows how arrogant we were.

The New Yorker

The film shows how.

The New York Times

Valeant Pharmaceuticals shows how some M.&A.

The New York Times

The recall shows how much has changed.

The Economist

It shows how strong she is.

The New York Times - Sports

"It just shows how things have changed.

The New York Times

"It shows how much she wanted it".

The New York Times

Well, shows how much I know.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "shows how" to clearly introduce examples or explanations of processes. For instance, "This example shows how the algorithm functions in real-time."

Common error

Avoid using "shows how" in overly simple sentences where a more direct verb would suffice. Instead of "This shows how it works", try "This demonstrates its function."

Linguistic Context

Shows how functions as a verb phrase introducing a clause that explains or demonstrates a process, method, or manner. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness and common usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shows how" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to introduce explanations or demonstrations. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and commonality. It functions to clarify processes, typically in a neutral register across varied source categories with high occurrence in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business. Alternative phrases include "demonstrates how" and "illustrates how". When writing, use "shows how" to enhance clarity in explaining methods. Avoid overuse in place of direct verbs to maintain conciseness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demonstrates how

Replaces "shows" with a more formal synonym, "demonstrates".

illustrates how

Replaces "shows" with a synonym that emphasizes visual or clear explanation.

indicates how

Suggests that something points to or is a sign of how something happens.

reveals how

Implies uncovering something previously unknown about the process.

explains how

Focuses on providing a detailed account of the process.

details how

Highlights a thorough presentation of the steps or elements involved.

presents how

Suggests a formal display or introduction of a process.

outlines how

Indicates providing a summary or the main points of a process.

portrays how

Conveys a visual or descriptive explanation.

elucidates how

Offers clarification and deeper understanding of a process.

FAQs

How can I use "shows how" in a sentence?

"Shows how" is used to introduce an explanation or demonstration of a process. For example, "The diagram shows how the parts connect."

What are some alternatives to "shows how"?

You can use alternatives like "demonstrates how", "illustrates how", or "explains how" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "shows how" and "demonstrates how"?

While similar, "demonstrates how" often implies a more formal or rigorous explanation than "shows how". Both are generally interchangeable.

When should I use "shows how" instead of a simpler verb?

Use "shows how" when you want to emphasize the process or method being illustrated, rather than just the result. Otherwise, simpler verbs may be more concise.