The Ultimate Guide to Phrasal Verbs with Show

What is a Phrasal Verb?

A phrasal verb is a verb phrase that consists of a main verb and one or more prepositions or adverbs. The meaning of a phrasal verb is often different from the meaning of the main verb alone.

Show Up

Meaning

To expose or discredit someone or something, especially by revealing faults.

Examples

• The investigation showed up a number of irregularities in the company's accounts.
• The politician's hypocrisy was shown up by his own words.

Synonyms

• Expose
• Discredit
• Reveal

Antonyms

• Conceal
• Hide
• Cover up

Usage

Show up can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is often used in the passive voice.

Tips for Using Show Up

• Use show up to expose or discredit someone or something.
• Be careful not to use show up in a way that could be seen as accusatory or insulting.
• Use show up in the passive voice to avoid sounding accusatory.

Additional Information

Show up is an irregular verb. The past tense is showed and the past participle is shown.