Show up Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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show up

[ˈʃoʊ ʌp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

appearance

To arrive or appear at a place, especially unexpectedly or without being invited.

Synonyms

appear, arrive, attend, come, turn up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
show up	Informal situation where someone is expected to be visibly present. He didn't show up at the meeting. She always shows up late to parties.
appear	Formal or dramatic context where someone or something becomes visible or present. A ghost appeared in the room. She appeared on stage to loud applause.
arrive	Neutral context where someone reaches a destination. He arrived at the airport on time. They arrived in Paris yesterday.
turn up	Informal context, often spontaneous or unexpected presence. He turned up at the party uninvited. My keys finally turned up.
come	Informal and general usage for someone moving towards a place, often implying an invitation. Come to my house for dinner. Will you come to the game?
attend	Formal context indicating presence at an event, usually with a sense of duty or purpose. She attended the conference. He attended his cousin's wedding.

Examples of usage

She didn't show up for the meeting yesterday.
The package finally showed up after weeks of waiting.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

performance

To perform or present oneself, especially at a specific time or place.

Synonyms

attend, participate, perform, present.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
show up	Arrive at a place, especially unexpectedly or after an absence. It often implies someone just making an appearance without necessarily engaging deeply. He showed up at the party uninvited / She didn't show up to the meeting
perform	Carry out an action, task, or function, especially in front of an audience, such as acting, singing, or presenting. The band will perform at the concert tonight / She performed her duties diligently
present	Formally show or introduce something, often to a group of people, typically in a professional or academic setting. He presented his research findings to the committee / She will present the award to the winner
attend	Be present at an event or place, especially as a part of an obligation or formal event. She attended the conference last week / Make sure to attend all your classes
participate	Take part in an activity or event, often implying active engagement and contribution. He participates in the local community theater / They will participate in the annual sports day

Examples of usage

The band will show up at the concert tonight.
He always shows up early for work.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Studies indicate that individuals who consistently 'show up' to social events foster stronger relationships due to increased trust and familiarity.
The act of showing up can boost one’s confidence and reduce anxiety, as being present allows for engagement with others.
In motivational contexts, showing up is often cited as a crucial step toward achieving goals, reinforcing the idea that presence leads to opportunities.

Pop Culture

The phrase gained popularity in motivational and self-help genres, emphasizing the importance of being present in life and seizing opportunities.
In music, many songs reference the idea of showing up for loved ones or friends, highlighting the emotional aspect of attendance.
Television shows often depict characters who learn the importance of 'showing up' for family and friends, symbolizing commitment and care.

Education

Attendance is a critical factor in academic success, as students who 'show up' regularly are often more engaged and perform better.
Many educators stress the importance of participation, using the idea of 'showing up' as a metaphor for involvement in learning.
In online education, the concept of 'showing up' translates to actively participating in discussions and activities, even when not physically present.

Sports

In sports, 'showing up' can refer to athletes being present for practice, which is essential for team cohesion and performance.
Coaches often emphasize the 'show up' mentality, advising players that attendance and effort are key to improvement and success.
Famous athletes have spoken about how consistently 'showing up' to training sessions greatly influenced their achievements.

Origin of 'show up'

Main points about word origin

The phrase 'show up' combines the Middle English word 'showen' meaning to make visible and 'up' suggesting a direction or presence.
It's been used in English since the early 20th century to imply appearing or attending.
Before 'show up', similar phrases were used like 'turn up' which has been part of English vernacular for centuries.

The phrase 'show up' originated in the early 19th century, combining the words 'show' (to display or exhibit) and 'up' (indicating completion or arrival). It has since become a common expression in English, used in various contexts to describe both physical presence and performance.