Translation guide
The English word "show" covers many distinct meanings. This guide breaks them down into practical categories for learners, from displaying something to proving a point, with natural Japanese equivalents.
To physically present something for someone to look at, such as an object, a picture, or a screen.
The most common and versatile verb for showing something to someone. Use with に for the person you show it to.
Please show me the photo.
I showed him my passport.
Humble form of 見せる, used when showing something to a superior or customer.
I will show you the documents.
To show off something proudly, often with a negative nuance of flaunting.
He's showing off his new car.
To make something known or evident, such as directions, feelings, or data.
Used for showing abstract things like evidence, intention, or a direction. More formal than 見せる.
The map shows the way.
He showed no interest.
To express or represent something, often used for emotions, symbols, or meanings.
To point out or indicate clearly, often physically or in a diagram.
To provide evidence or make something clear through facts or actions.
To prove or demonstrate that something is true. Often used in formal or scientific contexts.
He showed his innocence.
Also used for demonstrating a fact or trend, especially with data.
To make clear or reveal, often used when uncovering a truth.
He showed the truth.
To lead someone to a place or show them around.
To demonstrate a process or skill so someone can learn it.
To present a program on television, in a theater, or online.
To become noticeable or able to be seen.
Intransitive; something is visible or can be seen. Not a direct action of showing.
A mountain shows in the distance.
To appear or show up, often for people or things coming into view.
To manifest or become evident, often for emotions or effects.
To present items in an exhibition, gallery, or fair.
見せる is for physically showing something to someone. 示す is for indicating abstract things like data, intentions, or directions. Using 見せる for abstract concepts can sound unnatural.
English uses 'show' in many phrasal verbs and idioms (show up, show off, show around). Japanese often uses completely different verbs. Always consider the intended meaning first.
この絵は悲しみを表している。
This painting shows sadness.
The arrow shows the exit.
The survey results show that trend.
They're showing a video on YouTube.
He showed up suddenly.
His nervousness shows on his face.