Meaning trap

show up

become visible or easy to notice

To become visible or noticeable, especially when something appears suddenly or stands out.

phrasal verbB2occasional

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

become visible or easy to notice

To become visible or noticeable, especially when something appears suddenly or stands out.

show up (arrive (especially unexpectedly or after being late))

Another meaning of 'show up' is 'arrive (especially unexpectedly or after being late)'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

The stain didn't show up until the shirt dried.study
Sometimes, problems with your health don't show up until years later, so regular check-ups are important.IELTS speaking

Pattern: show up (on/in [place])

WrongThe mark shows up on white better.

RightThe mark shows up better on white.

Put 'better' right after 'shows up', not at the end of the sentence.

Patternshow up (on/in [place])

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff The bruise became visibly apparent the following day.

Natural The bruise showed up the next day.

Natural; 'became visibly apparent' is stiff.

Words that usually travel with it.

'Show up' here is not about arriving, but about being seen or noticed.

show up (arrive (especially unexpectedly or after being late)) — Another meaning of 'show up' is 'arrive (especially unexpectedly or after being late)'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.