You love watching things that reveal, display, or present ideas. You might want different words like exhibits, portrays, or illustrates to spice up your talking or writing. This post is here to cheer you on with fun and easy words that mean shows, with real-life examples for each.
1. Displays
When something displays, it puts something out where people can see it clearly. For example, “The museum displays old coins.” Displays are often set up in public places like stores, museums, or online. It tells people what’s there and invites them to look. When you use displays, you show something with pride or purpose. It helps others notice and learn. Using displays in writing or talking makes things feel clear and visible.
2. Presents
When something presents, it gives or shares information or items to others. For example, “She presents her ideas in an easy way.” Presents means showing something well, often in a meeting or class. It’s more than just shows—it’s a polite, clear sharing. When you say presents, people know you’re intentionally sharing something. It feels planned and thoughtful. It works well for speeches, lessons, or gifts.
3. Exhibits
When something exhibits, it puts items out so people can view or learn. For example, “The art gallery exhibits new paintings this week.” Exhibits are common in museums and shows. It’s formal and shows care in how things are seen. When you exhibit, you plan a display for an audience. It feels special and organized. Exhibits help people appreciate what’s shown.
4. Reveals
When something reveals, it makes something hidden known or visible. For example, “The magician reveals the secret.” Reveals gives a sense of surprise or discovery. It can be about sharing news or showing feelings. When you reveal, you share something important that was not seen before. It adds a feeling of wow or shock. It’s fun and exciting in stories or surprises.
5. Demonstrates
When something demonstrates, it shows how to do something or proves a point clearly. For example, “He demonstrates the new app to his class.” Demonstrates is often used in teaching, showing skills, or proving facts. It gives clear steps or evidence. When you demonstrate, you help others see how something works or why it matters. It’s a helpful way to share knowledge.
6. Expresses
When something expresses, it shows feelings, ideas, or thoughts. For example, “She expresses her happiness by smiling.” Expresses can happen with words, art, or actions. It tells others what you are feeling inside. When you use expresses, people know it’s about showing feelings or opinions. It’s emotional and clear, letting others understand your inner world.
7. Indicates
When something indicates, it points out or gives a clue about something. For example, “The red light indicates you must stop.” Indicates is used for signals or signs. It’s often small, like showing a direction or idea. When you say indicates, you tell others what something means or shows. It’s smart and simple, making sure people get the message.
8. Manifests
When something manifests, it makes a feeling, idea, or quality obvious. For example, “Her hard work manifests in her good results.” Manifests means something shows itself clearly. It often talks about inner traits or effects. When you manifest, you make something hidden visible in real life. It’s strong and clear about how things appear or grow.
9. Portrays
When something portrays, it shows someone or something in a story, picture, or performance. For example, “The actor portrays a hero in the movie.” Portrays means you represent something in detail. It could be a look, words, or action. When you portray, you shape how others see someone or something. It’s creative and visual, helping others imagine the subject clearly.
10. Illustrates
When something illustrates, it shows by giving examples or pictures. For example, “The teacher illustrates math problems on the board.” Illustrates helps explain ideas so people understand better. It can be with drawing or examples. When you illustrate, you guide others with clear imagery or cases. It’s helpful and visual.
11. Features
When something features, it gives focus or spotlight to someone or something. For example, “The show features a famous singer.” Features means that something is the main or special part. It tells people what to notice or expect. When you feature, you highlight something as important. It feels special and attractive.
12. Unveils
When something unveils, it reveals something new, often with a big reveal. For example, “The company unveils a new phone today.” Unveils means showing something for the first time. It feels exciting and public. When you unveil, you share something special after preparation. It has a sense of ceremony or surprise.
13. Broadcasts
When something broadcasts, it shows on TV, radio, or online. For example, “The channel broadcasts live games.” Broadcasts means sharing info with many people at once. It could be TV, radio, or live stream. When you broadcast, you’re on air or online. It’s public and wide-reaching.
14. Performs
When someone performs, they act, sing, or show a skill in front of others. For example, “The band performs on stage tonight.” Performs means doing something live for an audience. It’s about talent, skill, or story. When you perform, you entertain or express. It’s active and public.
15. Airs
When something airs, it plays on TV or radio. For example, “The episode airs tonight at 8.” Airs means a show or program is being broadcast. It tells audience when to watch or listen. When you air, you share at a scheduled time. It’s public and planned.
16. Stages
When something stages, it puts on a performance or event. For example, “They stage a play every summer.” Stages means planning and showing a live event. It’s about setting, actors, and design. When you stage, you create a show. It’s organized and creative.
17. Screens
When something screens, it shows movies or videos on a big screen. For example, “The theater screens classic films.” Screens means playing video or film for an audience. It could be in a theater, mall, or online. When you screen, you present content visually to viewers. It’s entertainment and visual.
18. Discloses
When something discloses, it reveals important info that was hidden. For example, “The report discloses new facts.” Discloses means sharing info that people didn’t know before. It’s about truth and uncovering. When you disclose, you make it open and clear. It’s honest and sometimes official.
19. Highlights
When something highlights, it brings attention to something important. For example, “The report highlights the key points.” Highlights means showing the most important parts. It makes sure people know what matters. When you highlight, you’re drawing focus with emphasis. It’s helpful and smart.
20. Exposes
When something exposes, it shows something hidden or secret. For example, “The news exposes the scam.” Exposes means revealing truth, often about bad actions. It can be serious or shocking. When you expose, you uncover something people need to know. It’s bold and clear.
21. Advertises
When something advertises, it shows a product or service to sell it. For example, “They advertise the new shoes on TV.” Advertises means promoting or marketing to people. It uses pictures, words, or videos. When you advertise, you share why people should buy or do something. It’s persuasive and public.

Final Thoughts
You now have 21 fun words instead of just shows. Whether you want to display feelings, broadcast ideas, or expose secrets, there’s a word for that. Practice and pick the best one next time you write or talk. Use these words and make your language shine bright!