show off

/ʃoʊ ɒf/
phrasal verb★Intermediate💡 to display skills or possessions to impress others◆phrasal verb
◆ What It Really Means
To display something prominently to impress others, often with a boastful tone.
Literal Meaning
To display something away from oneself.
Literal Breakdown
showto display+offaway from
◇ Mental Image
The mental image of someone displaying something prominently, often with a sense of pride or arrogance.
◈ When to Use
At a party, someone might show off their new phone by passing it around and pointing out its features.
◉ Cultural Note
The phrase is common in English-speaking cultures and is often used to describe behavior that is seen as boastful or attention-seeking.
informal

To display one's abilities, possessions, or achievements in a way that is intended to impress others, often with an element of boastfulness.

She showed off her dancing skills at the talent show.

She displayed her dancing abilities to impress the audience.

The athlete showed off his medals to the press.

The athlete displayed his medals to impress the media.

💡

This phrase often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting that the display is done to impress rather than share.

Collocations

show off toto display something to a specific person or groupshow off withto display something using a particular skill or item

Related Phrases

show offphrasal verb
to display something impressively
show upphrasal verb
to arrive or appear

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

Use 'show off' carefully, as it can imply boastfulness. In some contexts, it may be better to use 'display' or 'exhibit' to avoid negative connotations.

⚡Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

Overusing 'show off' can make you seem arrogant. Use it sparingly and in appropriate contexts.

📖Word Origin

The phrase combines the verb 'show' with the preposition 'off,' where 'off' intensifies the action of displaying something prominently.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts and can be perceived as negative if the display is seen as excessive or boastful.

Word Breakdown

show
to display or exhibit
root
+
off
intensifies the action of displaying prominently
particle
English Dictionary