Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

I came across the street to meet you

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

The bridge came across the river

Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

She comes across as very confident in interviews

He came across the finish line first

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

The bus will come by this route

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

I come by the office every morning at 8

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Can you come by my house later for coffee?

The train came by the station too fast

She comes by the grocery store home

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The new iPhone will come out next month

I need to come out from the house now

The new iPhone will come out next month

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The truth finally came out after the investigation

The students came out to the classroom

Show Up: Definition, Usage & Examples

📖 Definition

To 'show up' means to appear or attend at a location or an event, often unexpectedly or without prior announcement. It can also imply outperforming others in a competitive setting.

Examples in context

Despite the rain, she showed up at the meeting, ready to work.
I'm hoping more people will show up to the community event this year.
He always shows up the competition with his impressive skills.

📖 Definition

To 'show up' means to appear or attend at a location or an event, often unexpectedly or without prior announcement. It can also imply outperforming others in a competitive setting.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable

'Show up' is a phrasal verb that does not allow an object to be placed between the two parts.

Neutral

This phrasal verb is versatile, suiting both formal and informal contexts.

Transitive

'Show up' is intransitive, meaning it does not require a direct object.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense	Form	Example
Present Simple	show up	They always show up late to meetings.
Past Simple	showed up	He showed up unexpectedly at the party.
Present Continuous	showing up	She is always showing up at my doorstep unannounced.
Present Perfect	have shown up	We have shown up at every event this year.

💡 When to Use

Attending an event

Use 'show up' when referring to physically arriving at or attending a specific event or place.

Example: "I'll show up at your birthday party this Saturday."

Outperforming others

When someone unexpectedly performs better than others in a comparison context, use 'show up.'&

Example: "She shows up everyone else in the competition."

Unexpected appearances

Use 'show up' when describing someone appearing unexpectedly in a location without prior notice.

Example: "He just showed up at my office without an appointment."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect tense usage

❌ Wrong: He show up at the meeting late.

✅ Correct: He showed up at the meeting late.

💡 Tip: Ensure correct tense agreement for clarity.

Misplaced particle

❌ Wrong: She showed at the party up.

✅ Correct: She showed up at the party.

💡 Tip: Remember, 'show up' is inseparable in construction.

Using as transitive

❌ Wrong: She showed up the document.

✅ Correct: She showed up at the office.

💡 Tip: Remember, 'show up' does not take a direct object.

Practice

SHOW UP - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

1
Listen to example

Despite the rain, she showed up at the meeting, ready to work.
How National Parks Came to Be
2
Listen to example

I'm hoping more people will show up to the community event this year.
How to Become a Hiker
3
Listen to example

He always shows up the competition with his impressive skills.
Bringing Animals Back to Life

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

appear arrive

Antonyms

disappear

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"They were surprised when he ___ unexpectedly at the ceremony."

shows in

show up

come over

turned off

"Show up in life, not just in places. Let presence define you beyond your mere physical attendance, creating a legacy of authenticity."

In Context

In 1787, as delegates anxiously gathered for the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, George Washington’s punctuality set a precedent when he showed up early each day. Many doubted the success of the proceedings, given the fractious nature of the states. However, Washington’s leadership and commitment inspired others to diligently show up, transforming uncertainty into concerted effort. Discussions were intense and, at times, led to deadlock. It was Benjamin Franklin who finally showed up with a compromise proposal revised late into the night. This pivotal moment encouraged other delegates to compromise on key issues like representation and suffrage. By the convention's end, every delegate realized how important it was to show up, not just physically, but with open minds and collaborative spirits. The event concluded with the signing of the U.S. Constitution, a testament to the enduring power of showing up with purpose.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Show Up

What is the origin of show up?

The phrase 'show up' dates back to the 18th century, deriving from the earlier use of 'show' as a verb. It evolved in usage to include new meanings, such as making an appearance, particularly unexpected or notable, and outperforming others.

Can show up be used in formal and informal contexts?

Yes, 'show up' is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is suitable for professional settings when discussing attendance and informal situations when referring to unexpected appearances.

What is the difference between show up and appear?

While 'show up' emphasizes presence and often surprise, 'appear' is neutral and focuses on the act of becoming visible. 'Show up' can imply effort or intention, whereas 'appear' is more passive, simply denoting visibility.

Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs

About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey

📖 Definition

📖 Definition

📝 Grammar Info

📊 Conjugation Table

💡 When to Use

⚠️ Common Mistakes

SHOW UP - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Quick Check

In Context

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Show Up

Related Phrasal Verbs

Alessandra Nóbrega