this is a show

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is a show" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is a performance, presentation, or event meant for an audience. Example: "As the curtain rises, remember that this is a show, and we hope you enjoy every moment of it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a show.

The New York Times

"This is a show trial".

The Economist

This is a show that they need.

The New York Times - Arts

This is a show for our times.

The Guardian

This is a show about CAKES.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This is a show to cheer.

The New York Times

Ultimately, this is a show about power.

The Guardian - Music

This is a show that escapes easy definition.

The Guardian

This is a show about terror, protection and play.

The New York Times - Arts

This is a show both theatrically exhilarating and politically necessary.

The Guardian

This is a show strictly for older teenagers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is a show" to emphasize the performative or artificial nature of an event or situation. This can be particularly effective when contrasting it with reality or authenticity.

Common error

Avoid using "this is a show" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives like "this is a presentation" or "this is a demonstration" to maintain a serious tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of the phrase "this is a show" is to serve as a subject complement, identifying or describing the subject (this). It functions as a predicative nominative, indicating the nature or character of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "this is a show" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe an event, presentation, or situation staged for an audience. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in English. Its usage spans across various contexts, predominantly in news and media, where it serves to characterize events or situations. While generally neutral, the phrase can sometimes imply a lack of authenticity. For more formal or academic settings, alternatives like "this is a presentation" or "this is a performance" may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is a presentation

Replaces "show" with a more formal term, implying a structured delivery of information or performance.

this is a performance

Focuses on the act of performing, suitable for contexts where skill or artistry is highlighted.

this is an exhibition

Suggests a display of items or works of art, fitting for museum or gallery settings.

this is a spectacle

Emphasizes the visually impressive or dramatic nature of the event.

this is a display

Highlights the act of showing something prominently, often for commercial purposes.

this is a production

Implies a more elaborate and organized event, often involving significant resources and planning.

this is an affair

Indicates an event or happening, often with a connotation of importance or complexity.

this is a spectacle to behold

Adds emphasis to the visual appeal and memorability of the event.

this is quite the production

Highlights the impressive scale and orchestration of the event.

this is a remarkable display

Stresses the exceptional quality or impressive nature of the presentation.

FAQs

How can I use "this is a show" in a sentence?

You can use "this is a show" to describe an event or situation that is staged, performed, or presented for an audience. For example, "The trial felt like "this is a show", not a pursuit of justice."

What can I say instead of "this is a show"?

You can use alternatives like "this is a performance", "this is a spectacle", or "this is a presentation" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "this is a show"?

The phrase "this is a show" is appropriate when you want to emphasize that something is being presented or performed for an audience, or when you want to highlight the artificial or staged nature of a situation.

What is the tone of "this is a show"?

The tone of "this is a show" can vary depending on the context. It can be neutral, descriptive, or even critical, suggesting that something is overly theatrical or insincere.