showy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "showy" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is ostentatious or designed to attract attention, often in a way that is considered excessive or gaudy. Example: "The showy decorations at the party drew mixed reactions from the guests, with some loving the extravagance while others found it over the top."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This might tell us more about the company Amis keeps than the views of the general population; especially if you tire of these showy contributions from someone who spends most of his time somewhere else.

The Guardian

He was understated, he was not showy, he was always very thoughtful, very funny.

The Guardian

Ruffalo has the least showy part, but he disappears into his tragic character with ease, as seen in this short clip.

The Guardian - Film

It "got all the regulators more focused," he added the sort of statement that makes less showy officials scowl.

The Economist

FRANCE'S new finance minister, Nicolas Sarkozy, has made a showy start as spokesman for the country's business interests.

The Economist

And Mr Monti could prove a good foil for the slick, showy tycoon.

The Economist

Work on toll roads and public-private partnerships is continuing, although in smaller, less showy stretches.

The Economist

A less showy system is better suited to settling a forest.

The Economist

But it is apparently de rigeur for new startups to blow a chunk of their early-stage funding on a party to mark their arrival.As with peacock feathers or elaborate mating dances, the aim of this is to put on a showy, wasteful display of resources to prove one's evolutionary fitness for the rigours ahead.

The Economist

Those showy roast swans and peacocks of medieval times were all very well, but they were also very stringy, so when turkeys were introduced in the 16th century (at a great price), they soon graced all the best tables.

The Economist

He combined a vocal, sometimes showy Christianity with a cruel streak and a fondness for amphetamines and women in a way that could easily have seemed hypocritical.But Cash found a way to turn his detriments into advantages.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "showy" when you want to describe something that is attention-grabbing, but be aware of its potential negative connotation of being excessively ostentatious or gaudy. Consider the context to ensure it aligns with your intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "showy" in formal or professional writing when a more neutral term like "striking" or "impressive" would be more appropriate. "Showy" can imply a lack of substance or sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "showy" primarily functions to describe nouns, indicating that they are ostentatious or designed to attract attention. Ludwig AI confirms this, showcasing examples where "showy" modifies items like "flowers", "cars", or even behaviors. It implies a deliberate display intended to impress.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Encyclopedias

14%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "showy" is a common adjective used to describe something that is ostentatious or designed to attract attention. According to Ludwig AI, it is considered grammatically correct and is most frequently found in News & Media contexts. While "showy" can sometimes carry a negative connotation, implying excessive display, it is a useful term for describing items, actions, or behaviors that are intended to impress. When writing, be mindful of the context and consider more neutral alternatives like "striking" or "impressive" in formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ostentatious

Similar in meaning, but perhaps more formal and disapproving, suggesting excessive display.

flashy

Implies a bright, attention-grabbing appearance, often in a somewhat vulgar way.

gaudy

Suggests a tasteless or vulgar display of ornamentation.

flamboyant

Describes something that is strikingly bold and extravagant.

ostentatiously

Adverbial form indicating an action done in a showy manner.

exhibitionist

Refers to deliberately behaving in a way that attracts attention.

theatrical

Suggests an exaggerated or dramatic style, as if on a stage.

pretentious

Implies an attempt to impress by affecting greater importance, talent, or culture than is actually possessed.

ornate

Characterized by elaborate decoration or detail.

striking

Notably or remarkably attractive or impressive.

FAQs

How can I use "showy" in a sentence?

You can use "showy" to describe things that are designed to attract attention, such as "showy flowers" or a "showy car". It often implies that something is ostentatious.

What can I say instead of "showy"?

You can use alternatives like "ostentatious", "flashy", or "gaudy" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe someone's personality as "showy"?

Yes, you can describe a person as "showy" if they tend to behave in a way that is deliberately attention-grabbing. However, it often carries a negative connotation, suggesting they are trying too hard to impress others.

What's the difference between "showy" and "striking"?

"Showy" usually implies an intention to impress, sometimes negatively, while "striking" simply means noticeable or impressive without necessarily implying ostentation. Therefore, "striking" has a neutral connotation, while "showy" is often negative.