Explanation at your level:
Hello! Today we learn 示す (shimesu). It means to show. Imagine you have a toy. You want your friend to see it. You show them the toy. That is shimesu. Or, if you point to the door, you are shimesu the way. It is very easy! You can shimesu a picture, or shimesu your hand. Just make something clear for someone else to see. This word helps you share things!
The verb 示す (shimesu) is a useful word that means 'to show', 'to indicate', or 'to point out'. You use it when you want to make something visible or known to others. For example, if you are lost, someone might shimesu the direction to the station. Or, if you have a new book, you can shimesu it to your friends. It's about making something apparent. Think of it as bringing something to someone's attention, either physically or by giving information.
示す (shimesu) is a versatile verb meaning 'to show', 'indicate', or 'demonstrate'. It's used when you want to present information, evidence, or a particular state of affairs. For instance, a teacher might shimesu an example to explain a concept (例を示す - rei o shimesu). In a more abstract sense, you can shimesu an attitude (態度を示す - taido o shimesu) or interest (関心を示す - kanshin o shimesu). It implies making something clear or evident to others, often with a degree of formality.
The Japanese verb 示す (shimesu) translates to 'to show', 'indicate', 'demonstrate', or 'reveal'. Its usage extends beyond simple physical display to conveying abstract concepts like intentions, evidence, or states. For example, in a business context, a company might shimesu its financial results (業績を示す - gyōseki o shimesu). Academically, one might shimesu a theory (理論を示す - riron o shimesu). The verb carries a nuance of deliberate presentation or indication, often implying a need for clarity or proof. It's important to distinguish it from simply 'seeing' (見る - miru); shimesu is about actively making something known.
示す (shimesu) is a sophisticated verb encompassing meanings such as 'to demonstrate', 'to indicate', 'to manifest', 'to reveal', or 'to present'. It is employed across academic, professional, and analytical discourse to signify the act of making something apparent, whether it be data, evidence, a condition, a trend, or even a subtle emotional state. For instance, a medical report might 示す the presence of a disease (病気の存在を示す - byōki no sonzai o shimesu), or a historical analysis could 示す a causal link (因果関係を示す - inga kankei o shimesu). The verb often implies a formal or reasoned presentation, moving beyond mere visibility to convey understanding or proof.
The verb 示す (shimesu) represents a nuanced act of communication, signifying 'to demonstrate', 'to indicate', 'to evince', 'to manifest', or 'to present'. Its etymological connection to 'pointing' (指) underscores its function in directing attention towards specific information, evidence, or phenomena. In advanced contexts, shimesu can denote the revelation of underlying truths, complex relationships, or subtle patterns. For example, a philosophical text might 示す the inherent contradictions within a system (体系内の矛盾を示す - taikei-nai no mujun o shimesu), or a scientific paper might 示す a novel correlation (新たな相関を示す - arata na sōkan o shimesu). Its usage often implies a deliberate, well-founded presentation intended to inform, convince, or elucidate, carrying significant weight in formal and scholarly registers.
واژه در 30 ثانیه
- 示す (shimesu) means 'to show', 'indicate', or 'demonstrate'.
- It's used for both physical objects and abstract concepts (like attitudes or data).
- Often used in formal contexts like business and academics.
- Distinguish it from 見せる (miseru - simpler 'to show') and 表す (arawasu - 'to express/represent').
Hey there! Let's dive into the wonderful Japanese verb 示す (shimesu). It's a super useful word that pops up in all sorts of situations. Think of it as your go-to verb when you need to make something clear, visible, or understood by others. Whether you're pointing to a map, revealing a hidden talent, or demonstrating a principle, 示す has got your back!
At its core, 示す means to show, indicate, or point out. It's about bringing something to someone's attention. This can be done in many ways – from a simple gesture to a complex presentation. It’s a versatile verb that bridges the gap between what you know or have, and what others can perceive.
We use 示す when we want to convey information, evidence, or a particular state. For instance, a doctor might 示す the results of a test, or a sign might 示す the way to the station. It’s all about making the invisible visible, or the unknown known. So, get ready to unlock the power of 示す in your Japanese conversations!
The word 示す (shimesu) has deep roots in the Japanese language, stemming from older forms that conveyed a similar sense of pointing or revealing. Its kanji characters, 指 (shí) meaning 'finger' or 'point', and 示す (shimesu) itself, hint at its fundamental meaning of directing attention. The character 指 itself is composed of the radical 'hand' (扌) and 'temple' (寺), suggesting an action of the hand, perhaps in a sacred or deliberate manner.
Historically, the verb evolved from older Japanese words related to pointing and showing. In classical Japanese, similar verbs existed that carried the nuance of 'to reveal' or 'to make known'. The combination of the kanji and the verb form we use today solidified its meaning over centuries of linguistic development. It's fascinating how the character 'finger' is so central to the concept of 'showing' or 'indicating'.
The evolution of 示す mirrors the development of Japanese society and its need for clear communication. As trade, governance, and culture became more complex, the ability to precisely indicate, demonstrate, and present information became increasingly important. This verb has remained a constant, adapting its usage while retaining its core meaning of making something apparent to others. It’s a testament to the enduring power of clear communication!
示す is a workhorse verb in Japanese, appearing in a vast array of contexts. You'll often hear it used in formal settings, like business meetings or academic lectures, where clarity and precision are key. For example, a researcher might 示す data (データを示す - dēta o shimesu) to support their hypothesis, or a company might 示す its future plans (今後の計画を示す - kongo no keikaku o shimesu).
In everyday life, 示す is also common. You might 示す your ID card (身分証を示す - mibunshō o shimesu) at a security checkpoint, or a friend might 示す you the way to their house (道を示す - michi o shimesu). The key is that something is being made apparent or demonstrated. It’s important to note that while 示す can be used in many situations, it often carries a slightly more formal or deliberate tone than simpler verbs like 'miru' (見る - to see) when the intent is specifically to *make* something seen.
Some common collocations include: 証拠を示す (shōko o shimesu - to show evidence), 態度を示す (taido o shimesu - to show an attitude), 関心を示す (kanshin o shimesu - to show interest), and 例を示す (rei o shimesu - to give an example). Understanding these combinations will significantly boost your fluency. Remember, the context will always guide you on whether 示す is the most appropriate verb to use!
示す is a foundational verb, and while it doesn't feature in as many quirky, standalone idioms as some other words, its meaning is crucial for understanding many set phrases and expressions. These often involve showing a particular quality, state, or action.
Here are a few examples where the concept of 'showing' is central:
- 態度を示す (taido o shimesu): This literally means 'to show an attitude'. It's used when someone displays a particular disposition or behavior, often in response to a situation. For example, "彼は不満の態度を示した" (Kare wa fuman no taido o shimeshita) - "He showed an attitude of dissatisfaction."
- 関心を示す (kanshin o shimesu): Meaning 'to show interest'. This is very common when discussing someone's engagement with a topic, person, or activity. "彼女は新しいプロジェクトに強い関心を示した" (Kanojo wa atarashii purojekuto ni tsuyoi kanshin o shimeshita) - "She showed strong interest in the new project."
- 敬意を示す (keii o shimesu): To 'show respect'. This is used in situations where honor or deference is being expressed. "生徒たちは先生に敬意を示した" (Seito-tachi wa sensei ni keii o shimeshita) - "The students showed respect to their teacher."
- 本気を示す (honki o shimesu): To 'show seriousness' or 'show one's true intentions'. This implies demonstrating that you are not joking or playing around. "彼は勝負に本気を示した" (Kare wa shōbu ni honki o shimeshita) - "He showed his seriousness in the match."
- 結果を示す (kekka o shimesu): To 'show results'. This is frequently used in academic, business, or sports contexts. "チームは素晴らしい結果を示した" (Chīmu wa subarashii kekka o shimeshita) - "The team showed excellent results."
These expressions highlight how 示す is used to convey not just physical objects, but also abstract concepts like feelings, intentions, and achievements.
示す (shimesu) is a Group 1 verb (a 'u'-verb) in Japanese, which means its conjugation follows a predictable pattern. For example, its past tense is 示した (shimeshita), its negative form is 示さない (shimesanai), and its te-form is 示して (shimeshite). Understanding these basic conjugations is key to using the verb correctly in sentences.
Pronunciation-wise, 示す is pronounced roughly as 'shee-meh-soo'. The 'shi' sound is like the English 'shee', the 'me' is like the English 'meh', and 'su' is like the English 'sue' but with a very short, often almost unvoiced 'u' sound at the end, especially in rapid speech. The stress is fairly even across the syllables, with perhaps a slight emphasis on the first syllable 'shi'.
When learning pronunciation, pay attention to the vowel sounds. Japanese vowels are generally pure and short. Avoid diphthongs common in English. For 示す, the sounds are distinct: shi-me-su. Practicing with native speakers or using pronunciation guides can help you nail the nuances. Rhyming words are less common in Japanese compared to English, but words ending in '-esu' might share a similar final sound, though their meanings and kanji would be entirely different.
Fun Fact
The kanji 示 itself originally depicted a sacrificial altar, suggesting the idea of revealing divine will or making something sacred apparent.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'shi-MEH-s', with the emphasis slightly on the second syllable and a short 'u' sound at the end.
Similar to UK, 'shee-MEH-s', with a clear 'shee' sound and a light final 's'.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing the final 'u' too strongly.
- Adding an English 'r' sound where there is none.
- Incorrect syllable stress, making it sound unnatural.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to recognize, but understanding nuance requires context.
Conjugation is standard, but choosing between synonyms needs practice.
Pronunciation is straightforward, but using it appropriately takes practice.
Common verb, usually easy to catch.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
پیشرفته
Grammar to Know
Verb Conjugation (Group 1)
示す -> 示した (past tense)
Particles: Direct Object (を)
証拠 を 示す (shōko o shimesu)
Expressing Abstract Concepts
態度を示す (taido o shimesu)
Examples by Level
これ を 示し て ください。
This / object marker / show / please do.
The particle 'o' marks the direct object.
私 の 名前 を 示し ます。
My / name / object marker / show / will do.
'masu' form indicates politeness.
道 を 示し て。
Road / object marker / show / informal command.
Informal command form, used with friends.
これ は ペン です。
This / topic marker / pen / is.
Simple identification sentence.
私 は 絵 を 示し ます。
I / topic marker / picture / object marker / show / will do.
Subject 'I' is often omitted if clear from context.
時計 を 示し て。
Watch / object marker / show / informal command.
Common request to see the time.
地図 を 示し て ください。
Map / object marker / show / please do.
Polite request using 'kudasai'.
これ は 私 の です。
This / topic marker / my / possessive particle / is.
Possessive 'no' indicates ownership.
地図 で 道 を 示し て くれ ました。
Map / in / road / object marker / show / did for me (kindly).
The '-te kuremashita' form indicates a favor done for the speaker.
彼 は 驚き の 顔 を 示し た。
He / topic marker / surprise / of / face / object marker / showed.
The past tense '-ta' form is used here.
この 看板 が 方向 を 示し て い ます。
This / sign / topic marker / direction / object marker / indicate / is doing.
The '-te imasu' form indicates an ongoing state or action.
彼女 は 友情 を 示し た。
She / topic marker / friendship / object marker / showed.
Abstract noun 'friendship' is shown.
先生 は 例 を 示し て 説明 し た。
Teacher / topic marker / example / object marker / showed / explained.
Connecting two actions with '-te' form.
この データ は 新しい 傾向 を 示し て い ます。
This / data / topic marker / new / trend / object marker / indicate / is doing.
Used for indicating trends or patterns.
彼 は 計画 を 示し た。
He / topic marker / plan / object marker / showed.
Showing a plan or proposal.
その 事故 は 危険 を 示し て い た。
That / accident / topic marker / danger / object marker / indicated / was.
Indicating a state of danger.
会議 で 新しい プロジェクト の 計画 を 示し まし た。
Meeting / at / new / project / of / plan / object marker / showed / polite past.
Used for presenting plans or proposals in formal settings.
その 結果 は 予想 以上 の もの を 示し た。
That / result / topic marker / expectation / more than / thing / object marker / showed.
Indicating results or outcomes.
彼は 強い 決意 を 示し て いる。
He / topic marker / strong / determination / object marker / showing / is.
Showing abstract qualities like determination or resolve.
この データ は 増加 の 傾向 を 示し て い ます。
This / data / topic marker / increase / of / trend / object marker / indicating / is.
Indicating trends or patterns in data.
警官 は 私 に 免許証 を 示す よう に 言った。
Police officer / topic marker / me / driver's license / object marker / show / as / told.
Requesting someone to present identification or documents.
彼女 は 難しい 問題 に 対し て も 冷静 さ を 示し た。
She / topic marker / difficult / problem / towards / even / calmness / object marker / showed.
Showing composure or a specific reaction.
この 法案 は 社会 の 変化 を 示し て いる と 考え られる。
This / bill / topic marker / society / of / change / object marker / indicating / is / thought / can be.
Indicating societal shifts or trends.
彼 は チーム の ため に 献身 的 な 姿勢 を 示し た。
He / topic marker / team / of / for / dedicated / attitude / object marker / showed.
Demonstrating a dedicated attitude or commitment.
最新 の 研究 結果 は、その 仮説 を 裏付ける 証拠 を 示し て いる。
Latest / research / result / topic marker, / that / hypothesis / object marker / support / evidence / object marker / showing / is.
Used in academic contexts to present evidence.
この 統計 データ は、経済 の 回復 が 遅々 と して 進んで いる こと を 示唆 し て いる。
This / statistical / data / topic marker, / economy / of / recovery / slowly / as / progressing / thing / object marker / suggesting / is.
Often used with data to suggest trends or implications.
彼は 批判 に対して 感情 的 な 反応 を 示さ ず、冷静 に 対応 し た。
He / topic marker / criticism / towards / emotional / reaction / object marker / not showing, / calmly / responded.
Contrasting showing an emotion versus remaining calm.
その 芸術 作品 は、作者 の 内面 世界 を 如実 に 示し て いる。
That / art / work / topic marker, / creator / of / inner world / object marker / vividly / showing / is.
Used to describe art or literature revealing deeper meanings.
政府 は、国民 の 安全 を 確保 する ため の 決意 を 強く 示し た。
Government / topic marker, / citizens / of / safety / object marker / secure / for / purpose / determination / object marker / strongly / showed.
Showing strong resolve or commitment, often by a government or leader.
この 古代 の 文献 は、当時 の 社会 構造 を 理解 する 上 で 重要 な 情報 を 示し て いる。
This / ancient / document / topic marker, / that time / of / social / structure / understanding / on / important / information / object marker / showing / is.
Indicating important information from historical sources.
彼女 の スピーチ は、問題 の 深刻 さ を 聴衆 に 十分 に 示し た。
Her / speech / topic marker, / problem / of / seriousness / audience / to / sufficiently / showed.
Effectively conveying the seriousness or importance of something.
その 企業 は、環境 保護 へ の 真剣な 取り組み を 示し 始め た。
That / company / topic marker, / environmental / protection / towards / serious / efforts / object marker / showing / began.
Demonstrating serious commitment to a cause.
その 報告 書 は、市場 の 動向 に関する 詳細 な 分析 と、将来 の 成長 を 示唆 する データ を 提示 し て いる。
That / report / topic marker, / market / of / trends / regarding / detailed / analysis / and, / future / of / growth / object marker / suggesting / data / object marker / presenting / is.
Used in formal reports to present analysis and implications.
彼の 作品 は、現代社会 に 潜む 疎外 感 や 不安 を 巧み に 示し て いる。
His / work / topic marker, / modern / society / in / lurking / alienation / and / anxiety / object marker / skillfully / showing / is.
Revealing subtle or underlying societal issues.
この 古代 の 碑文 は、当時の 王権 の 強大 さ と、その 支配 の 正当 性 を 示そう と する 意図 が 読み取れる。
This / ancient / inscription / topic marker, / that time / of / royal authority / of / power / and, / its / rule / of / legitimacy / object marker / show / try / intention / can be read.
Interpreting inscriptions or texts to reveal intentions or power dynamics.
科学 者たち は、長年 の 実験 を 通して、その 理論 の 正当 性 を 決定 的 に 示し た。
Scientists / topic marker, / many years / of / experiment / through, / that / theory / of / validity / object marker / decisively / showed.
Providing definitive proof or validation for a theory.
その 政治 家 は、国民 の 負託 に 応える べく、強い 改革 意欲 を 示し た。
That / politician / topic marker, / citizens / of / trust / respond / in order to, / strong / reform / will/desire / object marker / showed.
Demonstrating a strong will or intention to enact change.
この 文学 作品 は、人間の 存在 の 不条理 さ を 皮肉 を 込め て 示し て いる。
This / literary / work / topic marker, / human / existence / of / absurdity / object marker / irony / include / showing / is.
Using irony or satire to reveal deeper truths about existence.
経済 指標 は、緩やかな 景気 回復 の 兆し を 示し て いる が、油断 は できない。
Economic / indicators / topic marker, / gradual / economic / recovery / of / signs / object marker / showing / is, / but, / carelessness / is / cannot do.
Indicating subtle signs or omens of future developments.
彼女 の 演技 は、キャラクター の 内面 的 な 葛藤 を 見事 に 示し て い た。
Her / acting / topic marker, / character / of / internal / conflict / object marker / brilliantly / showing / was.
Artfully revealing a character's psychological state through performance.
その 哲学 者 は、言語 の 本質 的 な 限界 を 示唆 する ため に、逆説 的 な 例 を 用い た。
That / philosopher / topic marker, / language / of / essential / limitations / object marker / suggest / for / purpose, / paradoxical / example / used.
Suggesting profound philosophical concepts through specific examples.
この 古代 の 遺物 は、失わ れ た 文明 の 高度 な 技術 力 と、その 宇宙 観 を 示唆 する 象徴 を 包含 し て いる。
This / ancient / artifact / topic marker, / lost / civilization / of / high / technological capability / and, / its / worldview / object marker / suggest / symbolic elements / contain / is.
Artifacts or relics revealing advanced knowledge or cosmology.
その 作家 は、人間 の 存在 の 根源 的 な 不安 を 描く こと で、現代社会 の 虚無 感 を 鋭く 示し て いる。
That / author / topic marker, / human / existence / of / fundamental / anxiety / depict / by, / modern / society / of / nihilism / object marker / sharply / showing / is.
Sharply revealing existential anxieties or societal nihilism.
この 科学 的 発見 は、従来 の 理論 に 対する 根本 的 な 疑問 を 提示 し、新たな 研究 分野 を 開拓 する 可能性 を 示唆 し て いる。
This / scientific / discovery / topic marker, / conventional / theory / towards / fundamental / questions / object marker / presenting, / new / research / field / open up / possibility / object marker / suggesting / is.
Presenting a discovery that challenges existing theories and opens new fields.
その 芸術 家 は、社会 的 な 抑圧 に対し て、挑発 的 な 作品 を 通じて 抵抗 の 意思 を 示し た。
That / artist / topic marker, / social / oppression / towards, / provocative / works / through / resistance / of / will / object marker / showed.
Expressing defiance or resistance through artistic means.
この 古文書 には、失わ れ た 儀式 の 詳細 が 記さ れ て おり、当時の 宗教 的 な 世界観 を 垣間見せる。
This / ancient document / topic marker / lost / ritual / of / details / are written / and, / that time / of / religious / worldview / object marker / glimpse / shows.
Providing glimpses into historical worldviews through ancient texts.
その 政治 的 コメント は、隠された 意図 や 権力 の 力学 を 巧み に 示唆 し て い た。
That / political / commentary / topic marker, / hidden / intentions / and / power / of / dynamics / skillfully / suggesting / was.
Subtly implying hidden motives or power dynamics.
この 音響 的 な 実験 は、人間の 知覚 の 非線形 性 を 示し、従来の モデル に 疑問 を 投げかける。
This / acoustic / experiment / topic marker, / human / perception / of / non-linearity / object marker / showing, / conventional / models / question / throws.
Demonstrating complex scientific principles like non-linearity in perception.
ترکیبهای رایج
Idioms & Expressions
"態度を示す (taido o shimesu)"
To show an attitude or disposition; to behave in a certain way.
彼は会議で不満の態度を示した。
neutral"関心を示す (kanshin o shimesu)"
To show interest in something or someone.
彼女は新しいプロジェクトに強い関心を示した。
neutral"敬意を示す (keii o shimesu)"
To show respect towards someone or something.
生徒たちは先生に深い敬意を示した。
neutral/formal"本領を示す (honryō o shimesu)"
To show one's true ability or potential; to perform at one's best.
ベテラン俳優は、難しい役柄で見事な本領を示した。
neutral"決意を示す (ketsui o shimesu)"
To show determination or resolve.
彼は困難な状況でも、決して諦めない決意を示した。
neutral/formal"兆候を示す (chōkō o shimesu)"
To show signs or indications of something, often a future event or a condition.
経済は回復の兆候を示し始めている。
neutral/formalEasily Confused
Both mean 'to show'.
見せる is typically for physically showing tangible objects. 示す is broader, used for indicating, demonstrating, presenting evidence, or showing abstract concepts/attitudes.
写真を見せる (shashin o miseru - show a photo) vs. 証拠を示す (shōko o shimesu - show evidence).
Both can involve making something apparent.
表す means to express, represent, or symbolize (e.g., art represents emotion). 示す means to indicate, demonstrate, or point out something specific (e.g., data indicates a trend).
この絵は悲しみを表している (Kono e wa kanashimi o arawashite iru - This painting expresses sadness) vs. データは増加を示している (Dēta wa zōka o shimeshite iru - The data shows an increase).
It's a compound verb containing 示す.
指し示す specifically means 'to point out' or 'to indicate', often used for directions or specific points. 示す is more general.
地図で場所を指し示した (Chizu de basho o sashishimeshita - Pointed out the location on the map) vs. 彼は能力を示した (Kare wa nōryoku o shimeshita - He showed ability).
Both mean 'to present' or 'show'.
提示する is a more formal verb, often used in business or academic contexts for presenting documents, proposals, or data officially. 示す is more general.
計画書を提示する (Keikakusho o teiji suru - To present a project proposal) vs. 証拠を示す (Shōko o shimesu - To show evidence).
Sentence Patterns
Noun + を + 示す
彼は強い意志を示した。
Noun + の + Noun + を + 示す
このデータは経済の回復を示している。
Noun + に + Noun + を + 示す
先生は生徒に例を示した。
Noun + は + Noun + を + 示す + Verb (e.g., ことがある)
この兆候は変化を示することがある。
Noun + を + 示す + ために + Verb
真実を示すために、彼は証拠を提示した。
خانواده کلمه
Nouns
Verbs
مرتبط
How to Use It
Formality Scale
اشتباهات رایج
見せる is typically for physically showing objects. 示す is used for indicating abstract things like interest, attitude, or evidence.
表す means to express or represent (e.g., art expresses emotion), while 示す means to indicate or show something specific (e.g., show data).
As a Group 1 verb, 示す conjugates to 示した (shimeshita) in the past tense, not 示しました (shimeshimashita).
If you are just watching TV, you use 見る (miru - to see/watch), not 示す (shimesu - to show). 示す implies an active act of making something visible.
示す implies presenting facts or evidence. For personal opinions, use phrases like 'I think' or 'I believe'.
Tips
Finger Pointing Mnemonic
Remember the kanji 指 (finger) is often part of words related to showing or pointing. Visualize yourself pointing your finger to show someone something – this is the core idea of 示す!
Abstract vs. Concrete
Think: Am I showing a physical thing (use 見せる more often) or indicating a fact, direction, or abstract concept (use 示す)? This distinction is key.
Clarity is Key
In Japanese culture, clear indication and demonstration are highly valued in education, business, and daily life. Mastering 示す helps you communicate effectively and respectfully.
The 'O' Particle
Most often, what you are showing will be the direct object, so remember to follow it with the particle を (o) before 示す.
Smooth 'SU'
Practice the 'su' sound at the end of 示す. In natural speech, it's often very light, almost like just an 's' sound. Don't over-pronounce the 'u'.
Don't Mix with 表す
Remember: 示す indicates or demonstrates something specific (like evidence), while 表す expresses or represents something (like an emotion in art). Avoid using them interchangeably.
Altar Origins
The kanji 示 originally looked like an altar, suggesting the idea of revealing something important or sacred. This ancient root reinforces the 'making known' aspect of the verb.
Contextual Flashcards
When making flashcards for 示す, don't just write the definition. Include a full example sentence showing *how* it's used in context, especially differentiating it from 見せる.
Formal Situations
In formal settings like presentations, reports, or official requests, 示す is often preferred over more casual verbs like 見せる for clarity and professionalism.
Act It Out!
Practice using 示す by physically pointing to objects, drawing simple diagrams, or acting out emotions while saying the word. This kinesthetic learning can be very effective.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine pointing your finger (指) at something to show it! The kanji itself helps remember the meaning.
Visual Association
Picture a teacher pointing to a blackboard with a big arrow, clearly showing the answer.
Word Web
چالش
Try using 示す three times today: once to show a physical object, once to indicate a direction, and once to express an attitude.
ریشه کلمه
Japanese
Original meaning: To point out, to make visible, to reveal.
بافت فرهنگی
While 'showing' itself is neutral, *what* is shown can be sensitive. For example, showing graphic content or personal information requires careful consideration of privacy and appropriateness.
In English-speaking cultures, the act of showing is fundamental to teaching, demonstrating, and sharing information. Directness in showing evidence or indicating facts is often valued.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Education/Teaching
- 例を示す (rei o shimesu) - to give an example
- 説明を示す (setsumei o shimesu) - to show an explanation
- 解答を示す (kaitō o shimesu) - to show the answer
Business/Presentations
- データを示す (dēta o shimesu) - to show data
- 計画を示す (keikaku o shimesu) - to show a plan
- 結果を示す (kekka o shimesu) - to show results
Directions/Travel
- 道を示す (michi o shimesu) - to show the way
- 地図を示す (chizu o shimesu) - to show a map
- 方向を示す (hōkō o shimesu) - to indicate the direction
Expressing Feelings/Attitudes
- 関心を示す (kanshin o shimesu) - to show interest
- 態度を示す (taido o shimesu) - to show an attitude
- 決意を示す (ketsui o shimesu) - to show determination
Conversation Starters
"Can you show me how to do that?"
"What does this sign indicate?"
"He showed great interest in the project, didn't he?"
"Could you show me your ID, please?"
"The data clearly indicates a need for change."
Journal Prompts
Describe a time someone showed you the way, literally or figuratively.
Write about a situation where you had to show evidence to prove something.
How can you show your appreciation for someone today?
Reflect on a time you showed determination to achieve a goal.
سوالات متداول
8 سوال見せる (miseru) is generally used for physically showing objects (like a photo or a toy), while 示す (shimesu) is broader and can be used for indicating directions, demonstrating facts, showing evidence, or expressing abstract things like attitudes or interest. 示す often carries a more formal or deliberate tone.
Yes, you can use 示す to talk about showing emotions or attitudes, such as 関心を示す (kanshin o shimesu - to show interest) or 態度を示す (taido o shimesu - to show an attitude).
Yes, 示す typically takes a direct object marked by the particle を (o). For example, 証拠を示す (shōko o shimesu - to show evidence).
The kanji 示 originally depicted a sacrificial altar, symbolizing revelation or making something known. It's often associated with showing, indicating, or demonstrating.
示す is a Group 1 verb (u-verb). Its polite past tense is 示しました (shimeshimashita), its plain past tense is 示した (shimeshita), its negative is 示さない (shimesanai), and its te-form is 示して (shimeshite).
Yes, similar verbs include 表す (arawasu - to express, represent), 指し示す (sashishimesu - to point out), and 提示する (teiji suru - to present, submit). Each has slightly different nuances and formality levels.
Use 示す when you are indicating something (like a direction or a fact), demonstrating a principle, presenting evidence, or showing an abstract quality (like interest or attitude). Use 見せる for simpler, physical acts of showing objects.
Common collocations include 証拠を示す (shōko o shimesu - to show evidence), 関心を示す (kanshin o shimesu - to show interest), and 例を示す (rei o shimesu - to give an example).
خودت رو بسنج
これ は 私 の 本 です。私 は あなた に ___。
You are showing a book to someone, so 'shimesu' (to show) is appropriate here.
Which sentence correctly uses 示す to indicate a direction?
示す is used to indicate directions or paths.
You can use 示す to show your feelings, like happiness.
Yes, you can 'show' feelings or attitudes, e.g., 喜びを示す (yorokobi o shimesu - to show joy).
Word
معنی
Match the Japanese noun with its English meaning, then think about how 示す would be used with each (e.g., 証拠を示す).
The correct sentence is 研究者はデータを示した (Kenkkyūsha wa dēta o shimeshita) - The researcher showed the data.
彼は会議で、プロジェクトの成功 ___ 強い意欲を ___。
You show determination 'towards' (への) a goal, and the verb is 'shimesu'. So, への and 示し are the correct choices.
Which phrase best describes showing abstract concepts like 'potential' or 'seriousness'?
能力を示す (nōryoku o shimesu - to show ability/potential) is a correct usage for abstract concepts.
その報告書は、市場の動向に関する詳細な分析と、将来の成長を ___ データ ___。
The sentence structure implies 'suggesting' future growth based on data, which is a more advanced usage of 示す (as 示唆する).
Translate: 'The ancient inscription reveals the ruler's divine mandate.'
This uses 示す in a formal, academic context to reveal or indicate a concept like divine mandate.
In which context would 示す be the most appropriate verb to use?
Showing a mathematical proof involves demonstrating or indicating logical steps and conclusions, fitting the meaning of 示す.
امتیاز: /10
Summary
示す is your go-to verb for making things clear, visible, or known, from pointing out directions to presenting crucial evidence.
- 示す (shimesu) means 'to show', 'indicate', or 'demonstrate'.
- It's used for both physical objects and abstract concepts (like attitudes or data).
- Often used in formal contexts like business and academics.
- Distinguish it from 見せる (miseru - simpler 'to show') and 表す (arawasu - 'to express/represent').
Finger Pointing Mnemonic
Remember the kanji 指 (finger) is often part of words related to showing or pointing. Visualize yourself pointing your finger to show someone something – this is the core idea of 示す!
Abstract vs. Concrete
Think: Am I showing a physical thing (use 見せる more often) or indicating a fact, direction, or abstract concept (use 示す)? This distinction is key.
Clarity is Key
In Japanese culture, clear indication and demonstration are highly valued in education, business, and daily life. Mastering 示す helps you communicate effectively and respectfully.
The 'O' Particle
Most often, what you are showing will be the direct object, so remember to follow it with the particle を (o) before 示す.
Related Content
این کلمه در زبانهای دیگر
عبارات مرتبط
واژههای بیشتر general
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
