示す em 30 segundos
- を示す (shimesu) is a formal verb meaning 'to show' or 'to indicate'.
- It is used for data, directions, evidence, and manifesting attitudes.
- Common phrases include '興味を示す' (show interest) and 'データが示す' (data shows).
- It is more objective and professional than the casual '見せる' (miseru).
The Japanese verb 示す (shimesu) is a fundamental yet sophisticated term that translates primarily to "to show," "to indicate," "to point out," or "to demonstrate." While it shares some conceptual space with the more common verb 見せる (miseru), 示す carries a more formal, objective, and often abstract nuance. It is not merely the act of putting something before someone's eyes; it is the act of making a fact, a feeling, a direction, or a piece of evidence clear through some form of representation or manifestation.
- Physical Indication
- Using a finger or a tool to point toward a specific location or object, such as a doctor pointing to an X-ray.
- Abstract Representation
- When data, statistics, or trends reveal a particular truth or direction in society or science.
- Manifestation of Intent
- Showing an attitude, such as interest, reluctance, or agreement, through one's actions or words.
「彼は新しい計画の要点を図で示した。」 (He indicated the key points of the new plan using a diagram.)
In a broader sense, 示す is used when something serves as a sign or a proof. For instance, a thermometer indicates the temperature, or a person's success demonstrates their hard work. It is the verb of choice in academic writing, news reporting, and professional business settings where clarity and evidence are paramount. Unlike 見せる, which can be as simple as showing a friend a photo on your phone, 示す implies a level of significance or formal presentation.
「調査結果は、消費者の好みの変化を示している。」 (The survey results are showing a change in consumer preferences.)
- Etymological Root
- The kanji 示 originally depicted an altar where omens or signs from the gods were displayed, emphasizing the act of revealing something important.
Historically, the word has evolved from religious revelation to modern scientific and social indication. It covers the spectrum from a simple gesture to a complex statistical proof. When you use 示す, you are not just showing; you are providing a signpost for others to follow or a proof for them to believe.
Mastering 示す (shimesu) requires understanding its grammatical environment and the specific nouns it frequently pairs with. As a transitive verb, it typically takes the particle を (wo) to mark the object being shown.
- [Noun] を 示す: To show/indicate [Noun].
- [Location/Direction] を 示す: To point toward [Location].
- [Attitude/Emotion] を 示す: To manifest [Attitude].
例：道順を指で示す。 (To show the route with a finger.)
One of the most common professional uses is with data. Phrases like 「データが示す通り」 (As the data shows) or 「証拠を示す」 (To present evidence) are ubiquitous in Japanese corporate and legal life. When you are presenting a PowerPoint, you don't just 'show' slides; you 示す the logic and the results.
- The 'Attitude' Pattern
- This is a key colocation. You 'show' interest (興味を示す), 'show' reluctance (難色を示す), or 'show' understanding (理解を示す). In these cases, it describes an external manifestation of an internal state.
In technical contexts, instruments like clocks, gauges, and meters 示す values. 「時計が12時を示している」 (The clock shows 12 o'clock) is more formal and precise than saying the clock 'is' 12. It emphasizes the function of the device as an indicator.
You will encounter 示す (shimesu) in several distinct environments, each utilizing a different facet of its meaning.
1. The Business Meeting
During a presentation, a speaker might say, 「こちらのグラフが示すように...」 (As this graph indicates...). It provides an air of authority and objectivity. It is also used when discussing company policy or a leader's vision: 「社長は来期の方針を示した」 (The president outlined/showed the policy for the next term).
2. News and Media
News anchors frequently use this verb when reporting on social trends, economic shifts, or political stances. 「政府は遺憾の意を示しました」 (The government showed/expressed its regret) is a standard phrase in diplomatic reporting.
「世論調査の結果は、現政権への支持率低下を示している。」 (Poll results show a decline in the approval rating for the current administration.)
3. Academic and Scientific Writing
In research papers, 示す is the standard verb for presenting findings. 「図1は実験の結果を示す」 (Figure 1 shows the experimental results). It is preferred over 見せる because research is about objective indication, not personal display.
4. Daily Navigation
If you ask for directions, someone might use their hand to 示す the way. 「指で方向を示す」 (To indicate the direction with a finger). It is also seen on signs: 「矢印が入り口を示している」 (The arrow indicates the entrance).
The most frequent mistake for learners is confusing 示す (shimesu) with 見せる (miseru). While both translate to "show," their usage is quite different.
- Mistake 1: Casual 'Showing'
- Incorrect: 友達に写真を示した。
Correct: 友達に写真を見せた。
Explanation: 示す is too formal for showing a photo to a friend. Use 見せる for casual, physical acts of showing objects. - Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Expressing' (表す)
- While 示す can mean to show a feeling, 表す (arawasu) is used specifically for expressing thoughts or feelings through words or art. 示す is more about the evidence or sign of that feeling.
❌ 「彼は言葉で感謝を示した。」 (He showed gratitude with words - awkward)
✅ 「彼は言葉で感謝を表した。」 (He expressed gratitude with words - natural)
Another mistake is using 示す when 指す (sasu) is more appropriate. 指す specifically means to point with a finger or to refer to something. 示す is the act of making something known by pointing or by other means. If you are literally just pointing at a bird in the sky, use 指す.
Japanese has several verbs that overlap with 示す (shimesu). Understanding the nuances helps you choose the right one for the context.
| Word | Nuance | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 見せる (Miseru) | Direct, physical, casual. | 写真を友達に見せる。 |
| 表す (Arawasu) | To express/represent (feelings, symbols). | 気持ちを言葉で表す。 |
| 提示する (Teiji suru) | To present/submit (formal/official). | 身分証を提示する。 |
| 指す (Sasu) | To point at/refer to. | 時計の針が12時を指す。 |
| 明示する (Meiji suru) | To state clearly/explicitly. | 理由を明示する。 |
提示する (Teiji suru) is a very close relative often used in legal or bureaucratic contexts (like showing an ID). 表す (Arawasu) is more about the internal becoming external, whereas 示す is about the object itself acting as an indicator. For example, a sign indicates (示す) the exit, but a poem expresses (表す) loneliness.
「このデータは、単なる数字ではなく、社会の課題を示している。」 (This data is not just numbers; it indicates societal challenges.)
How Formal Is It?
Nível de dificuldade
Gramática essencial
~を示す (Direct object)
~によって~を示す (Show via means of...)
~が示す通り (As ... shows)
~に~を示す (Show something to someone)
~としての範を示す (Set an example as a...)
Exemplos por nível
指で方向を示します。
I will show the direction with my finger.
Verb in polite form.
彼は地図の場所を示した。
He pointed out the location on the map.
Past tense of shimesu.
時計が3時を示している。
The clock shows 3 o'clock.
Te-iru form for current state.
出口はあちらだと示した。
He indicated that the exit was over there.
Direct object + shimesu.
正しい答えを示してください。
Please show the correct answer.
Te-kudasai for a request.
矢印が入り口を示す。
The arrow indicates the entrance.
Simple present tense.
名前をここに示してください。
Please indicate your name here.
Formal request.
彼は写真の人物を示した。
He pointed to the person in the photo.
Object marked by を.
彼女は新しい計画に興味を示した。
She showed interest in the new plan.
Common collocation: 興味を示す.
この図は人口の変化を示しています。
This diagram shows the change in population.
Formal present continuous.
先生は黒板に例を示した。
The teacher showed an example on the blackboard.
Past tense.
彼は私に駅への道を示してくれた。
He kindly showed me the way to the station.
Te-kureru (doing a favor).
温度計が30度を示している。
The thermometer is showing 30 degrees.
State of an instrument.
彼は自分の考えをはっきりと示した。
He showed his thoughts clearly.
Adverb + verb.
このサインは「止まれ」を示します。
This sign indicates 'Stop'.
Meaning of a symbol.
犬は主人に喜びを示した。
The dog showed joy to its owner.
Emotion as an object.
データは景気が回復していることを示している。
The data indicates that the economy is recovering.
Noun clause + koto wo shimesu.
彼はその提案に対して難色を示した。
He showed reluctance toward that proposal.
Idiomatic: 難色を示す.
実験の結果は、仮説が正しいことを示した。
The experimental results showed that the hypothesis was correct.
Scientific context.
政府は新しい経済政策を示した。
The government outlined a new economic policy.
Formal policy presentation.
彼は身分証明書を提示した。
He presented his identification card.
Note: 提示 (teiji) is a formal compound of shimesu.
この数字は昨年の売り上げを示しています。
These figures show last year's sales.
Business context.
彼は部下たちに範を示した。
He set an example for his subordinates.
Idiomatic: 範を示す (set an example).
彼女は私の意見に理解を示してくれた。
She showed understanding of my opinion.
Collocation: 理解を示す.
その行動は彼の誠実さを示している。
That action demonstrates his sincerity.
Abstract quality as object.
研究者は新たな証拠を示した。
The researcher presented new evidence.
Evidence-based context.
彼は辞任する意向を示した。
He indicated his intention to resign.
Collocation: 意向を示す.
この傾向は社会の高齢化を示している。
This trend indicates the aging of society.
Social analysis.
裁判官は厳しい姿勢を示した。
The judge showed a stern attitude.
Attitude manifestation.
この詩は作者の孤独を示している。
This poem indicates the author's loneliness.
Literary analysis.
彼は反対の意志を明確に示した。
He clearly showed his will to oppose.
Will/Intent as object.
標識が示す通りに進んでください。
Please proceed as the signs indicate.
Relative clause: hyoushiki ga shimesu doori.
その論文は、言語と文化の密接な関係を論理的に示した。
The paper logically demonstrated the close relationship between language and culture.
Academic precision.
彼は沈黙によって、不満の意を示した。
He indicated his dissatisfaction through silence.
Indirect indication.
この現象は、環境破壊の深刻さを如実に示している。
This phenomenon vividly demonstrates the severity of environmental destruction.
Adverb: 如実に (nyojitsu ni - vividly/clearly).
大統領は同盟国への支持を改めて示した。
The president reaffirmed his support for the allies.
Diplomatic context.
彼はその問題に対して、柔軟な対応を示した。
He showed a flexible response to the problem.
Nuanced business response.
歴史が示すように、独裁は長くは続かない。
As history shows, dictatorship does not last long.
Historical generalization.
彼女の作品は、人間の本質を鋭く示している。
Her work sharply demonstrates the essence of humanity.
Artistic critique.
法案の修正案は、妥協の余地を示している。
The amendment to the bill indicates room for compromise.
Political nuance.
宇宙の膨張は、ビッグバン理論の正当性を示す有力な根拠である。
The expansion of the universe is strong evidence indicating the validity of the Big Bang theory.
Scientific/Philosophical proof.
その哲学者は、存在の不条理を独自の論理で示した。
The philosopher demonstrated the absurdity of existence through his own logic.
Philosophical demonstration.
彼は、権力がいかに人を腐敗させるかを身を以て示した。
He demonstrated through his own life how power corrupts people.
Idiom: 身を以て示す (show through one's own experience).
古典文学は、時代を超越した普遍的な真理を示している。
Classical literature indicates universal truths that transcend time.
Universal indication.
この数式は、物理法則の美しさを簡潔に示している。
This mathematical formula concisely demonstrates the beauty of physical laws.
Aesthetic demonstration.
彼の沈黙は、言葉以上に雄弁に真実を示していた。
His silence indicated the truth more eloquently than words.
Rhetorical contrast.
神託は、王国の滅亡を暗示的に示した。
The oracle implicitly indicated the fall of the kingdom.
Implicit/Religious indication.
その社会実験は、集団心理の危うさを如実に示した。
The social experiment vividly demonstrated the dangers of group psychology.
High-level sociological analysis.
Colocações comuns
Frases Comuns
Frequentemente confundido com
Casual/physical vs. Formal/abstract.
Expressing feelings vs. Indicating facts/signs.
Physically pointing vs. General indication.
Expressões idiomáticas
— To set an example for others to follow.
— To show reluctance or express disapproval.
— To demonstrate something through one's own actions or life.
— To express one's intention or inclination.
— To express regret (often in formal/diplomatic contexts).
— To show respect.
— To show displeasure or discomfort.
— To show understanding or sympathy.
— To show interest in something.
— To show sincerity or good faith.
Fácil de confundir
Padrões de frases
Como usar
Highly formal. Suitable for writing and business.
Implies the thing being shown is a fact or a clear sign.
Can be both, but leans toward abstract indication.
Dicas
Learn Collocations
Don't just learn 'shimesu'; learn 'kyoumi wo shimesu' and 'nanshoku wo shimesu' together.
Academic Tone
Use 'shimesu' in your Japanese essays to immediately sound more professional.
Passive Voice
The passive 'shimesareru' is common in rules: 'Koko ni shimesareta doori...' (As indicated here...).
Business Etiquette
Use 'shimesu' when discussing company policies or intentions in meetings.
Action over Words
Remember 'mi wo motte shimesu' (show through action) is a key Japanese virtue.
News Keywords
When you hear 'shimesu' on the news, pay attention to the noun before it; it's usually the main topic.
Presentation Phrase
Start your data explanation with 'Kono zu ga shimesu no wa...' (What this diagram shows is...).
Context Clues
If you see 'shimesu' in a science text, it almost always means 'proves' or 'indicates data'.
Radical Power
The radical 示 (altar) appears in many words related to signs and ceremonies (like 神 - god).
The Pointer
Visualize the kanji 示 as a hand pointing down at an altar of truth.
Memorize
Origem da palavra
Contexto cultural
Teachers are expected to 'shimesu' the correct path for students.
In court, the burden of proof is to 'shimesu' evidence clearly.
When presenting a business card, you are 'teiji' (presenting) it, but your overall manner 'shimesu' (shows) your respect.
Pratique na vida real
Contextos reais
Iniciadores de conversa
"このデータは何を示していると思いますか？ (What do you think this data indicates?)"
"彼はその計画に興味を示しましたか？ (Did he show interest in that plan?)"
"新しい方針を部下にどう示せばいいでしょうか？ (How should I show the new policy to my subordinates?)"
"最近の統計はどんな傾向を示していますか？ (What kind of trends are recent statistics showing?)"
"彼が難色を示した理由は何ですか？ (What was the reason he showed reluctance?)"
Temas para diário
今日、誰かがあなたに親切を示してくれましたか？ (Did someone show you kindness today?)
自分の目標を達成するために、どのような姿勢を示すべきですか？ (What kind of attitude should you show to achieve your goals?)
最近読んだニュースで、印象的なデータが示されていたものはありますか？ (Is there any news you read recently that showed impressive data?)
あなたは他人に範を示すことができていますか？ (Are you able to set an example for others?)
言葉を使わずに感謝を示す方法は？ (How can you show gratitude without using words?)
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntasNo, that would sound very strange. Use 'miseru' for casual situations with family.
'Teiji suru' is specifically for presenting something for inspection, like an ID card. 'Shimesu' is broader.
Yes, but usually for the *outward sign* of the emotion, like 'showing interest' or 'showing reluctance'.
You say 'Gurafu ga shimeshite iru' (グラフが示している).
Only in the sense of 'showing the way' or 'setting an example'. For actual teaching, use 'oshieru'.
Yes, it always takes an object (marked by を).
It is 示.
Yes, 'Tokei ga 12-ji wo shimesu' is correct and formal.
It means 'to set an example' (usually a good one).
Yes, it is common in N3 and N2 level reading and listening.
Teste-se 180 perguntas
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Use <strong>示す</strong> when you are providing proof, pointing to a fact, or describing an official stance. It bridges the gap between physical pointing and abstract demonstration, making it essential for business and academic Japanese.
- を示す (shimesu) is a formal verb meaning 'to show' or 'to indicate'.
- It is used for data, directions, evidence, and manifesting attitudes.
- Common phrases include '興味を示す' (show interest) and 'データが示す' (data shows).
- It is more objective and professional than the casual '見せる' (miseru).
Learn Collocations
Don't just learn 'shimesu'; learn 'kyoumi wo shimesu' and 'nanshoku wo shimesu' together.
Academic Tone
Use 'shimesu' in your Japanese essays to immediately sound more professional.
Passive Voice
The passive 'shimesareru' is common in rules: 'Koko ni shimesareta doori...' (As indicated here...).
Business Etiquette
Use 'shimesu' when discussing company policies or intentions in meetings.
Conteúdo relacionado
Esta palavra em outros idiomas
Frases relacionadas
Mais palavras de general
いくつか
B1An unspecified small number of things; some, a few.
ちょっと
A2Um pouco; um momento. Usado para tornar pedidos mais educados.
すこし
A2A little; a few.
さっき
A2Agora pouco; há pouco tempo.
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
A2Uma expressão usada para indicar o assunto de uma conversa ou pensamento.
〜について
B1Uma expressão usada para significar 'sobre' ou 'a respeito de'.
～ぐらい
A2Uma partícula japonesa que significa 'cerca de' ou 'aproximadamente'.
ぐらい
A2Levará cerca de cinco minutos. (Levará cerca de 5 minutos.)
