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show off
/ʃoʊ ɒf/◆phrasal verb
to display skills or possessions to impress others
He loves to show off his new car at parties.
He enjoys displaying his new car to impress others.
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
Antonyms
Related Phrases
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
rootoff
intensifies the action of displaying prominently
particleEnglish Dictionary