Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Show" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "show", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
示す
しめす (shimesu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
見せつける
みせつける (misetsukeru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "show" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 示す and 見せつける.
In Japanese, 示す (しめす (shimesu)) is typically associated with "to show; to indicate; to point out; to express; to demonstrate" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to showing data, indicating directions, demonstrating attitudes, or expressing feelings clearly. Often used as 態度で示す or データをしめす. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'To show! "I will show my love to Haruka-san through my actions!" ...っ! T-To show your love through actions! W-Well, if you back your words with a passionate hug, I-I'll believe you! Baka!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『しめす（示す）！『言葉だけじゃなく、行動でハルカ部長への愛を示します！』って…っ！そんな格好いいセリフを吐くなんて生意気！…本当に示す気があるなら、今すぐ私をギュッと抱きしめてみなさいよ！』.
On the other hand, 見せつける (みせつける (misetsukeru)) maps to "to show off, to flaunt, to display (to impress/intimidate)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Deliberately showing something to others, often with a sense of pride, boastfulness, or provocation. It's about making others notice.. A literal translation of "show" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "示す"
会議のプレゼンにおいて、新製品の圧倒的な市場価値を証明するために、売上推移のデータをグラフで_______必要があります。
In the presentation of the meeting, in order to prove the overwhelming market value of the new product, it is necessary to show the sales trend data in a graph.
Bilingual Context for "見せつける"
彼は新しい車を友人に自慢げに見せつけた。
He showed off his new car to his friends boastfully.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "会議のプレゼンにおいて、新製品の圧倒的な市場価値を証明するために、売上推移のデータをグラフで_______必要があります。" (Meaning: "In the presentation of the meeting, in order to prove the overwhelming market value of the new product, it is necessary to show the sales trend data in a graph.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "示す" fits here because it means "to show; to indicate; to point out; to express; to demonstrate" in the context of: "In the presentation of the meeting, in order to prove the overwhelming market value of the new product, it is necessary to show the sales trend data in a graph.". "見せつける" represents "to show off, to flaunt, to display (to impress/intimidate)".