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Synonyms

for show

Idioms  
  1. For the sake of appearances or display. For example, They put on a lavish buffet, mainly for show, or The police pretended to jail the informer, for show. [c. 1700]


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Tan also allegedly told Apple employees to bring physical components, such as batteries, circuit boards, and other parts, to interviews for "show and tell" sessions.

From Barron's Jul. 10, 2026

The company still owns the Professional Bowlers Association, but Shannon says that’s mostly for show.

From The Wall Street Journal Jul. 2, 2026

I don’t know how much of a dark horse that one is, but that’s my pick for show.

From Los Angeles Times Jun. 18, 2026

Sometimes the thin line between love and hate, including the brand of disdain that’s just for show, can be bridged by a tuna melt.

From Salon Dec. 26, 2025

Was he acting that way for show, or was their kiss just not that important to him?

From "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas

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