Bring out the Gimp vs Display

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Bring out the Gimp

SlangBeyond 10,000 (less common)

Display

Top 1,000 (very common)B2verb
Most formal: DisplayMost common: Display
 Bring out the GimpDisplay
Pronunciation🇬🇧 //brɪŋ aʊt ðə ɡɪmp//🇺🇸 //brɪŋ aʊt ðə ɡɪmp//🇬🇧 /["/dɪˈspleɪ/","/dɪˈspleɪz/","/dɪˈspleɪd/","/dɪˈspleɪɪŋ/"]/🇺🇸 /["/dɪˈspleɪ/","/dɪˈspleɪz/","/dɪˈspleɪd/","/dɪˈspleɪɪŋ/"]/
MeaningTo show someone or something that was hidden.To show something so that people can see it.
ExampleHe decided to bring out the Gimp for the party.Please display the results on the screen for everyone to see.
RegisterSlangNeutral
How commonBeyond 10,000 (less common)Top 1,000 (very common)
CEFR level-B2
Part of speechverb
Collocationsbring out the best, bring out a reaction, bring out the truthclearly, prominently, proudly, to
Antonyms-conceal, hide, obscure
Common mistakesMisunderstood as a neutral or formal phrase., Used in serious situations where humor is not appropriate., Confused with other phrases that don't carry the same meaning.Saying 'displayed for me' instead of 'displayed to me'., Using 'display' as a noun when a verb is required., Confused with 'exhibit' which has a more formal tone.
Usage notesThis phrase is often used in informal contexts, sometimes humorously. It may not be appropriate in formal conversations due to its slang nature.Use 'display' in contexts involving showing information or items. It's appropriate for both written and spoken communication. Avoid in very informal situations where simpler words like 'show' may be preferred.

See it in real clips

Bring out the Gimp

Frequently asked questions: Bring out the Gimp vs Display

What's the difference between Bring out the Gimp and Display?

Bring out the Gimp: To show someone or something that was hidden. Display: To show something so that people can see it.

Which is more formal: Bring out the Gimp and Display?

Display is the most formal of these.

Which is more common: Bring out the Gimp and Display?

Display is the most common in everyday English.

Can you show an example of each?

Bring out the Gimp: He decided to bring out the Gimp for the party. Display: Please display the results on the screen for everyone to see.

Can I use Bring out the Gimp and Display interchangeably?

Not always. Bring out the Gimp and Display are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

Related comparisons