Cool MateDisplay vs Showing
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Display
Top 1,000 (very common)B2verb
Showing
Top 1,000 (very common)
| Display | Showing | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/dɪˈspleɪ/","/dɪˈspleɪz/","/dɪˈspleɪd/","/dɪˈspleɪɪŋ/"]/🇺🇸 /["/dɪˈspleɪ/","/dɪˈspleɪz/","/dɪˈspleɪd/","/dɪˈspleɪɪŋ/"]/ | 🇬🇧 //ˈʃəʊɪŋ//🇺🇸 //ˈʃoʊɪŋ// |
| Meaning | To show something so that people can see it. | Making something visible or clear |
| Example | Please display the results on the screen for everyone to see. | The teacher is showing the students how to solve the math problem. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| CEFR level | B2 | - |
| Part of speech | verb | |
| Collocations | clearly, prominently, proudly, to | showing interest, showing off, showing signs, showing respect, showing up |
| Antonyms | conceal, hide, obscure | hiding, concealing, keeping secret |
| Common mistakes | 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. | Confusing with 'showed' for past actions., Using 'showing' without a clear object can sound incomplete., Misunderstanding its meaning in phrases like 'showing up' (arriving). |
| Usage notes | 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. | Used to indicate making something visible or providing information; appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. |
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Frequently asked questions: Display vs Showing
What's the difference between Display and Showing?
Display: To show something so that people can see it. Showing: Making something visible or clear
Can you show an example of each?
Display: Please display the results on the screen for everyone to see. Showing: The teacher is showing the students how to solve the math problem.
Can I use Display and Showing interchangeably?
Not always. Display and Showing 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.