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📏english grammar and usage review

Show up

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

The phrase 'show up' means to appear or arrive at a specific location or event, often unexpectedly or without prior notice. This term is commonly used in informal contexts and can also imply making oneself visible or becoming evident in a situation, often in relation to attendance or participation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. 'Show up' can be used in both literal and figurative senses, indicating not only physical presence but also emotional or psychological engagement.
  2. The phrase can be used in various tenses, such as 'showed up' for the past and 'will show up' for future actions.
  3. 'Show up' is often associated with social situations where one’s presence is expected, such as parties, meetings, or appointments.
  4. In casual conversation, saying someone 'didn't show up' can imply disappointment or surprise regarding their absence.
  5. The term may also reflect on a person's reliability or commitment, as consistently showing up can indicate dependability.

Review Questions

  • How does the phrase 'show up' reflect on someone's reliability in social contexts?
    • 'Show up' can indicate a person's reliability by demonstrating their commitment to attending social events or meetings. When someone consistently shows up, it builds trust and suggests that they value their relationships and responsibilities. Conversely, if someone frequently fails to show up, it may lead others to perceive them as unreliable or uninterested in the group dynamic.
  • Discuss the different contexts in which 'show up' can be applied, including its literal and figurative meanings.
    • 'Show up' can be applied in various contexts. Literally, it refers to physically arriving at a location, such as a party or meeting. Figuratively, it can mean becoming apparent in a situation, like when someone's talents or emotions become evident. This versatility allows 'show up' to be relevant in both casual conversations about attendance and deeper discussions about engagement and presence in life.
  • Evaluate how the use of 'show up' can influence interpersonal relationships and social dynamics.
    • 'Show up' significantly influences interpersonal relationships by affecting perceptions of commitment and support among individuals. When someone makes the effort to show up for others, it reinforces bonds and enhances trust within the relationship. Conversely, when someone fails to show up, it may lead to feelings of neglect or disappointment, which can disrupt social dynamics and create distance between individuals. This interplay highlights the importance of presence in building and maintaining strong relationships.