Translation guide
The English phrase "show up" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: to arrive or appear, to be visible or noticeable, to embarrass or outperform someone, and to attend an event.
To come to a place, often unexpectedly or after a delay.
General verb for appearing or showing up, often used for people or things becoming visible.
彼は突然パーティーに現れた。
He suddenly showed up at the party.
Simple verb for 'come', often used in casual contexts to mean 'show up'.
彼はまだ来てないよ。
He hasn't shown up yet.
Literally 'show one's face', meaning to make a brief appearance or drop by.
ちょっと顔を出すだけだよ。
I'll just show up for a bit.
Literally 'show one's figure', used when someone appears after being absent or hidden.
彼はようやく姿を見せた。
He finally showed up.
To be easily seen or noticed, often because of contrast or prominence.
Means 'stand out' or 'be conspicuous'. Used when something is noticeable.
その色は暗い背景でもよく目立つ。
That color shows up well even against a dark background.
Means 'be clearly visible'. Used when something can be seen distinctly.
この写真では顔がはっきり見えない。
His face doesn't show up clearly in this photo.
Means 'stand out in relief' or 'be embossed'. Used when something appears raised or contrasted.
To make someone look bad by comparison, often by doing something better.
Means 'to embarrass someone' or 'make someone lose face'. Captures the social shame aspect.
彼は私の前でわざと完璧な英語を話して、私に恥をかかせた。
He showed me up by speaking perfect English on purpose.
Means 'to make someone/something look inferior by comparison'.
彼の新車は私の古い車を見劣りさせた。
His new car showed up my old one.
Means 'to talk down' or 'put someone in their place', often through argument or superior skill.
To be present at a gathering, meeting, or event.
Formal verb for 'attend'. Used for meetings, classes, ceremonies.
彼は会議に出席しなかった。
He didn't show up for the meeting.
Means 'participate' or 'join'. Slightly less formal than 出席, used for events and activities.
パーティーに参加する？
Are you going to show up at the party?
Casual 'come', often used for informal gatherings.
明日の飲み会、来る？
Are you showing up to the drinking party tomorrow?
The English phrase 'show up' cannot be directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. Always choose a verb or expression that matches the specific meaning you intend.
現れる (arawareru) emphasizes the act of appearing, often unexpectedly. 来る (kuru) simply means 'come' and is more neutral. Use 現れる when the appearance is sudden or noteworthy.
The white letters show up against the black background.
彼は議論で私を完全にやり込めた。
He really showed me up in the debate.