noun

die Show, -s

show

Eine Veranstaltung, bei der Menschen vor Publikum etwas vorführen, um sie zu unterhalten. Das kann im Fernsehen oder auf einer Bühne passieren.

die Show means a staged performance or spectacle intended to entertain an audience. It can refer to:

A live entertainment event
A performance with music, dancing, comedy, special effects, or famous performers.
- Die Show war beeindruckend. — “The show was impressive.”
A television or radio programme
Especially an entertainment programme, such as a talent competition, talk show, or quiz programme.
- Sie moderiert eine beliebte Show. — “She hosts a popular show.”
A conspicuous display or spectacle
The word can also describe something done mainly to attract attention or create an impression.
- Das war nur eine Show. — “That was just a show.”

Gender: feminine: die Show
Plural: die Shows
Pronunciation: approximately shoh
Word origin: Borrowed from English show. In German, it is commonly used for entertainment events, television programmes, and deliberately impressive displays.

The related verb is zeigen , meaning “to show” or “to display,” but it is not directly derived from the English loanword.

die Aufführung — a performance, usually referring to a theatrical or musical presentation; more neutral and formal than Show.
die Vorstellung — a performance or presentation; often used for theatre, cinema, or circus events.
das Spektakel — a spectacular or sometimes excessive event; it emphasizes the impressive, noisy, or sensational character.
die Darbietung — a performance or presentation; more formal and often used for artistic performances.
die Sendung — a broadcast or programme; unlike Show, it does not necessarily imply entertainment or spectacle.

There is no exact antonym for Show. Depending on the meaning, possible contrasts include:

die Realität — reality, especially when Show means an artificial display or pretence.
die Nüchternheit — plainness or sobriety, contrasting with the spectacular nature of a Show.
die Zurückhaltung — restraint or modesty, contrasting with a conspicuous public display.