demonstration

/ˌdemənˈstreɪʃn/ (bre, ipa) · /ˌdemənˈstreɪʃn/ (ame, ipa) · /ˌde-mən-ˈstrā-shən/ (ame, mw)

demonstration — noun

  • demonstrationsingular
  • demonstrationsplural

1. an occasion when someone shows and explains how a piece of equipment works or ho

1.名詞B1
釋義

an occasion when someone shows and explains how a piece of equipment works or how a task is done, by actually doing it while other people watch.

例句

Tara gave a clear demonstration of how to use the sewing machine during the class.

demonstration + of how to + verb

The sales representative prepared a cooking demonstration to promote the new blender.

同義詞
  • display

    emphasises showing an object or skill without necessarily explaining it

  • exhibition

    more formal and usually refers to a large public event or show

  • tutorial

    focuses on step-by-step instruction rather than a one-time show

文法句型

demonstration + of + noun phrase

demonstration + of how + clause

用法筆記

When countable (a demonstration), it refers to a specific event. When uncountable, it refers to the method or activity in general — e.g., 'learning by demonstration is effective for hands-on skills.' The preposition of introduces the thing being shown; how-to clauses explain the method.

常見錯誤

❌The manager gave a demonstration about the new software.
✅The manager gave a demonstration of the new software.
💡'demonstration of' is the standard pattern, not 'demonstration about.'
❌His presentation was a demonstration of the product.' (when he only talked about it)
✅His demonstration of the product involved actually using it.
💡A demonstration requires showing the thing in action, not just talking about it.

2. a public gathering where many citizens walk through streets or occupy a public s

2.名詞B2
釋義

a public gathering where many citizens walk through streets or occupy a public square to express their strong views about a political or social issue, most often to show disagreement.

例句

Salma joined the demonstration outside the parliament building to support fair wages for teachers.

demonstration + to support + noun phrase

Police estimated that over five thousand people attended the climate change demonstration.

同義詞
  • protest

    more strongly suggests opposition; can be used by a single person, not necessarily a group march

  • rally

    emphasises a gathering to hear speakers and generate enthusiasm, often in support of a cause

  • march

    focuses on the act of walking in a group along a route

文法句型

demonstration + against + noun phrase

demonstration + in support of + noun phrase

hold / join / organize a demonstration

用法筆記

A demonstration is usually a lawful public gathering. It differs from a riot, which involves violence or property damage. 'Protest' is often used interchangeably, though 'demonstration' can also express support (not just opposition). Common verbs: hold, organize, join, attend, take part in.

常見錯誤

❌They organized a riot against the new law.
✅They organized a demonstration against the new law.
💡A riot involves violence; a demonstration is a peaceful gathering to express opinions.

3. an action, event, or behaviour that makes a particular feeling, opinion, or pers

3.名詞B2
釋義

an action, event, or behaviour that makes a particular feeling, opinion, or personal quality clearly visible to other people.

例句

Quan's decision to donate his savings was a touching demonstration of generosity.

demonstration + of + [abstract quality]

The street party was intended as a public demonstration of unity after the crisis.

同義詞
  • display

    can be more dramatic and sometimes less sincere than 'demonstration'

  • expression

    broader and more neutral; can refer to words, art, or facial expressions

  • show

    informal and often suggests something intentional or for an audience

文法句型

demonstration + of + noun phrase (abstract quality)

用法筆記

Typically followed by of + an abstract noun (kindness, courage, support, unity, gratitude). The countable form (a demonstration of courage) refers to a specific act; the uncountable form (in demonstration of support) is mostly found in fixed or semi-fixed phrases.

常見錯誤

❌His smile was a demonstration of happiness.
✅His smile was a sign of happiness.
💡'Demonstration' implies a deliberate or noticeable action, not an involuntary expression.

4. something such as a fact, piece of evidence, or logical argument that clearly sh

4.名詞B2
釋義

something such as a fact, piece of evidence, or logical argument that clearly shows a claim, theory, or scientific finding is true.

例句

Christopher's experiment offered a convincing demonstration that the formula was correct.

demonstration + that-clause

The falling sales figures were a clear demonstration of the need for a new marketing plan.

同義詞
  • proof

    stronger and more conclusive; proof leaves no room for doubt

  • evidence

    more neutral; evidence may be partial or circumstantial

  • verification

    formal and technical; often used in scientific or quality-control contexts

文法句型

demonstration + that-clause

demonstration + of + noun phrase

用法筆記

Common in academic, legal, and scientific writing. The that-clause pattern (demonstration that...) is especially frequent in formal arguments. Unlike 'proof,' which is absolute, 'demonstration' can refer to strong but not necessarily conclusive evidence.

常見錯誤

❌The experiment was a demonstration of the theory.' (vague)
✅The experiment provided a demonstration that the theory was valid.
💡The that-clause makes the logical connection explicit.

5. an intentional public show of a country's armed strength, using soldiers, weapon

5.名詞C1
釋義

an intentional public show of a country's armed strength, using soldiers, weapons, ships, or aircraft to warn other countries or to build domestic confidence.

例句

The navy held a demonstration of its newest submarines near the disputed waters.

demonstration + of + military asset

Military demonstrations along the border were intended to discourage any invasion.

同義詞
  • show of force

    a fixed phrase emphasising the intimidating aspect of the display

  • display

    broader and less formal; can apply to non-military contexts too

  • show of strength

    similar to show of force but can also be metaphorical in non-military contexts

文法句型

demonstration + of + military noun phrase

military / naval / air demonstration

用法筆記

Almost always countable. Differs from a 'military exercise' which is for training purposes; a demonstration is primarily for display and psychological impact. Common modifiers: naval, air, military, missile.

常見錯誤

❌The army held a demonstration of their new tanks for training.
✅The army held a training exercise with their new tanks.
💡If the purpose is practice, use 'exercise' not 'demonstration.'