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.
He suddenly showed up at the party.
Simple verb for 'come', often used in casual contexts to mean 'show up'.
He hasn't shown up yet.
Literally 'show one's face', meaning to make a brief appearance or drop by.
I'll just show up for a bit.
Literally 'show one's figure', used when someone appears after being absent or hidden.
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.
That color shows up well even against a dark background.
Means 'be clearly visible'. Used when something can be seen distinctly.
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.
He showed me up by speaking perfect English on purpose.
Means 'to make someone/something look inferior by comparison'.
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.
He didn't show up for the meeting.
Means 'participate' or 'join'. Slightly less formal than 出席, used for events and activities.
Are you going to show up at the party?
Casual 'come', often used for informal gatherings.
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.
白い文字が黒い背景に浮き出ている。
The white letters show up against the black background.
His new car showed up my old one.
彼は議論で私を完全にやり込めた。
He really showed me up in the debate.
Are you showing up to the drinking party tomorrow?