Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Show” — 10 Other Ways to Say It
Entertainment or performance that people watch in person or on TV.
Meanings of Show — Pick the Sense You Need
Show has 3 common meanings. The synonyms below are grouped by meaning so you can jump straight to the sense you need.
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Meaning #1
as a noun
Entertainment or performance that people watch in person or on TV.
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Meaning #2
as a verb
To let someone see or know something by giving or pointing.
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Meaning #3
as a verb
To lead someone to a location by going with them or pointing the way.
How to Pronounce Show
IPA: /ʃoʊ/ Stress: O
Rhymes with 'go', 'know', and 'flow' — all have long 'oh' sound.
3 Synonyms for Show (Meaning #1 — as a noun)
These synonyms work when you use show as a noun. Meaning: Entertainment or performance that people watch in person or on TV.
performance
/pərˈfɔːrməns/A show or play; the way someone does something.
Example: The concert performance was amazing.
event
/ɪˈvɛnt/Something that happens, such as a party, game, or important situation.
Example: The sports event was postponed due to bad weather.
3 Synonyms for Show (Meaning #2 — as a verb)
These synonyms work when you use show as a verb. Meaning: To let someone see or know something by giving or pointing.
display
/dɪˈspleɪ/To show or present something so people can see it clearly.
Example: The museum displays ancient artifacts in glass cases.
reveal
/rɪˈviːl/To show or tell something that was kept secret. To uncover information or truth.
Example: The magician revealed a rabbit from the hat.
present
/ˈprɛzənt/Something you give to someone as a gift for a special occasion.
Example: She gave me a present for my birthday.
4 Synonyms for Show (Meaning #3 — as a verb)
These synonyms work when you use show as a verb. Meaning: To lead someone to a location by going with them or pointing the way.
guide
/ɡaɪd/To show someone the way by going with them, or to help direct their actions or decisions.
Example: The tour guide will guide us through the museum and explain each exhibit.
lead
/liːd/To show someone where to go, or to be in charge of a group or activity.
Example: The teacher led the students to the museum.
direct
/dɪˈrɛkt/Happening in a straight line without detours; also means honest and clear.
Example: This is the direct route to the airport.
Smart Synonyms for Show — When to Use Each
performance
any entertainment with actors
spectacle
impressive large visual display
Antonyms of Show — Opposite Words
How to Use Show and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- We watched a concert show last night. A1
- The magic show amazed all the children. A2
- Television shows run for many seasons nowadays. B1
- Can you show me your new shoes? A1
- The guide showed tourists around the museum. A2
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Show
What is another word for "show"?
Common synonyms for "show" include: performance, spectacle, event, display, reveal.
What can I say instead of "show"?
Try one of these alternatives: performance, spectacle, event, display, reveal. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "show" formal or informal?
"show" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "show" instead of "performance"?
Use "show" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "performance" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "show"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "show" include: hide, conceal.