this portrait shows

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this portrait shows" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the content or subject of a portrait, typically in art criticism or analysis. Example: "This portrait shows a young woman with a serene expression, capturing her inner beauty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"This portrait shows a woman with closed lips the colour of blood.

Independent

He was very conscious of his talent – this portrait shows it.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

This portrait showed him as a caring, religiously nuanced soul.

Independent

This powerful portrait shows why Van Gogh was right to rate the eminent Victorian.

The Guardian - Arts

And that the preliminary drawing for this very portrait shows no sign whatsoever of being traced from a lens projection.

The New York Times - Books

Literary historian George Călinescu notes that this fictional portrait shows: "The dignity in gossip, the boyar carriage, the refinement that the apparent vulgarity cannot bring to ruin, the blasé and cynical lechery".

Wikipedia

A portrait shows him followed by an impish-looking attendant.

The New York Times

The portrait shows Walter asleep on her arms.

The Guardian - Arts

Kimbrough's grandfather was buried nearby; a gravestone portrait shows him driving a John Deere tractor.

The New York Times - Magazine

Toledano's closeup portrait shows Assange with his chin lifted slightly, peering expectantly beyond the frame.

The New Yorker

An iconic portrait shows him with a long gray beard and a fur hat.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a portrait, be specific about what the portrait reveals or emphasizes. For instance, instead of just stating ""This portrait shows"", elaborate on the emotion, characteristic, or story that the portrait conveys.

Common error

Avoid using passive constructions when describing portraits. Instead of saying "The subject is shown to be..." use active language like ""This portrait shows"" to directly convey what the artwork depicts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this portrait shows" functions as a descriptive statement, providing information about the content or subject matter depicted in a portrait. It commonly introduces an explanation or interpretation of the artwork. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this portrait shows" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase, as stated by Ludwig AI, employed to describe or introduce the elements presented within a portrait. Though not exceedingly common, its frequency lands it in the 'uncommon' range, with usage most prominent in news and media contexts. The phrase functions descriptively, aiming to inform viewers about the portrait's key features. For enhanced clarity and impact, it's advisable to provide specific details rather than a mere statement. Remember to steer clear of passive constructions to maintain an active and engaging voice in your descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the portrait reveals

Focuses on what the portrait uncovers or makes known.

the painting depicts

Uses "depicts" instead of "shows", emphasizing the visual representation.

this image illustrates

Replaces "portrait" with "image" and "shows" with "illustrates".

the artwork presents

Emphasizes the presentation of the subject in the artwork.

in the portrait we see

Shifts the focus to the viewer's experience of observing the portrait.

the portrait captures

Highlights the act of seizing and preserving a likeness or moment.

this likeness conveys

Uses "likeness" instead of "portrait" and focuses on the communication of the portrait.

the representation displays

More formal and emphasizes the display of the subject.

this picture demonstrates

Uses "picture" for "portrait" and focuses on the demonstration of a characteristic or aspect.

the work embodies

Suggests that the portrait is a physical expression or representation of something abstract.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "this portrait shows"?

You can use alternatives such as "the portrait depicts", "this image illustrates", or "the artwork presents", depending on the context.

How can I make my description of a portrait more engaging?

Instead of simply stating ""this portrait shows"", try to elaborate on the specific details or emotions that the portrait conveys. Use descriptive language to capture the essence of the subject and the artist's interpretation.

Is it correct to say "this portrait displays" instead of "this portrait shows"?

While "this portrait displays" is grammatically correct, it's less common than ""this portrait shows"". Display suggests a more formal presentation, so consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "this portrait shows" and "this portrait reveals"?

"This portrait shows" is a general statement about what the portrait depicts. "This portrait reveals" implies that something previously hidden or not immediately obvious is now made known through the portrait. The phrase "the portrait reveals" suggests a deeper insight.