Phrasal verb
show up
Definition
phrasal verb. to arrive at a place where people are expecting you. You use this when someone finally gets to a meeting, party, or appointment.
phrasal verb. to arrive at a prearranged destination or event, often implying a delay or a previous absence; the verb is intransitive and does not take a direct object.
Examples
“I always get nervous when my guests don't show up on time.”
“Even though he promised to help us move, he didn't show up until the truck was already packed.”
“The witness failed to show up for the hearing, prompting the judge to issue a formal warning regarding the legal consequences of non-compliance.”
Examples
simple
“I always get nervous when my guests don't show up on time.”
contextual
“Even though he promised to help us move, he didn't show up until the truck was already packed.”
complex
“The witness failed to show up for the hearing, prompting the judge to issue a formal warning regarding the legal consequences of non-compliance.”
Usage
Usually used without an object, but you can add 'for' or 'at' to name the event or place.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'turn up' (British English preference) and 'arrive' (more formal); 'show up' can sometimes carry a nuance of being late or unexpected.
Pitfall
He showed up the party late.
He showed up at the party late.
The phrasal verb is intransitive and requires a preposition like 'at' or 'for' before a noun phrase.
Phrasal verb
Particles
up
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
show + up
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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