for show

idiom

: intended to be seen but not used or bought

We're not supposed to eat the fruit on the table. It's just for show.

disapproving : done in order to gain the approval or favor of others

He says he enjoys classical music, but it's only for show.

Examples of for show in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Virgo August 23 – September 22 Your achievements are not just for show! —

Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 13 June 2024 The irony is that the very moment the danger becomes real for Jack — when his seemingly harmless trifling with the darkness stops being just for show — is also the fakest moment of the film, a mere parlor trick itself. —

A.a. Dowd, Vulture, 19 Apr. 2024 In the cold open of the sixth episode, a student in Melissa’s (Lisa Ann Walter) class brings the star to the school for show and tell after spotting him buying a hoagie across the street. —

Clayton Davis, Variety, 13 May 2024 Venue officials are encouraging fans to plan accordingly for show nights, including early travel and carpooling. —

Brian McCollum, Detroit Free Press, 17 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for for show

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'for show.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.