What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exhibit
Example
The museum is currently exhibiting a collection of ancient pottery. [exhibiting: present participle]
Example
She will exhibit her paintings at the art fair next month. [exhibit: verb]
show
Example
We went to see a show on Broadway last night. [show: noun]
Example
Can you show me how to use this new software? [show: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Show is more commonly used than exhibit in everyday language. Show is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while exhibit is more specific and often used in academic or museum settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between exhibit and show?
While exhibit is typically associated with a more formal or academic tone, show can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be more versatile in terms of formality level.
