What are the definitions of “show through”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1When a feeling can be seen despite attempts to conceal it.
His anger SHOWED THROUGH despite his smile.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “show through”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb show through is when a feeling or emotion is visible, even when someone tries to hide it. For example, a person might try to hide their sadness with a smile, but their true feelings still show through.
What are the different verb forms of “show through”?
| Root Verb | show through |
| Third Person Singular Present | shows through |
| Present Participle | showing through |
| Simple Past | showed through |
| Past Participle | shown through |
Example
Her nervousness showed through during the presentation.
Example
His excitement shows through when he talks about his new job.
Example
She is showing through her true feelings despite trying to hide them.
Example
Yesterday, her disappointment showed through even though she tried to act happy.
Example
His true emotions have always shown through despite his attempts to conceal them.
What kind of phrasal verb is “show through”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“show through” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
Her sadness showed through during the party.
Example
His anger showed through despite his smile.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“show through” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
Her sadness showed through during the party.
Example
His anger showed through despite his smile.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “show through”?
Good things to know
Does “show through” have an informal or formal tone?
Show through is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as presentations or written documents.
