show up
/ˌʃoʊ ˈʌp/
Reviewed on
Type
Phrasal verb
Meaning
To arrive at a place or an event, often late or unexpectedly.
He promised to help us move, but he did not show up until noon.
Will everyone show up on time for the morning briefing?
To become visible or clearly noticeable against a background or surface.
The pale ink did not show up clearly on the recycled paper.
Small scratches always show up much worse in bright sunlight.
To outshine or embarrass someone by displaying superior skill or preparation.
The substitute chef showed up the head cook with an extraordinary dessert.
Are you deliberately trying to show me up in front of the team?
How it's used
When this means “arrive”
- show up at the meeting
“show up there.”
She showed up at the office before anyone else.
When this means “outshine or embarrass someone”
Both orders mean the same thing.
- show up the competition
- show the competition up
it and them go in the middle: “show them up.” Not “show up them.”
The rookie showed up the veteran with a brilliant performance.
Collocations
- show up late
- show up unannounced
- show up on time
- fail to show up
- show up on a scan
- show up clearly