Meaning trap
show up
become visible or easy to notice
To become visible or noticeable, especially when something appears suddenly or stands out.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
To become visible or noticeable, especially when something appears suddenly or stands out.
Another meaning of 'show up' is 'arrive (especially unexpectedly or after being late)'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
The stain didn't show up until the shirt dried.
Sometimes, problems with your health don't show up until years later, so regular check-ups are important.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: The mark shows up on white better.
Say: The mark shows up better on white.
Put 'better' right after 'shows up', not at the end of the sentence.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
Natural; 'became visibly apparent' is stiff.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
show up + on/against
- on the scan
- against white
- clearly
- barely
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- 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.