for show
for show — 慣用語
1. describes something that exists or is placed somewhere only to create a certain
做樣子
無實際用途，僅為外觀
describes something that exists or is placed somewhere only to create a certain look or impression, without having any real function, use, or practical purpose
The books on the office shelves were all for show — nobody had ever opened them.
辦公室書架上的那些書都是做樣子的——根本沒有人翻過。
be + for show — appearance vs. reality
Eric's expensive watch was for show; he checked the time on his phone instead.
Eric 那隻昂貴的手錶是做樣子的；他用來看時間的是手機。
The security cameras were for show — Andrei later discovered they had never worked.
那些監視器是做樣子的——Andrei 後來發現它們根本從來沒運作過。
Hui hung plates on the wall for show, but kept her dishes in the cupboard.
Hui 把盤子掛在牆上做樣子，但平常的碗盤放在櫥櫃裡。
- for appearance's sake
more formal; emphasises keeping up a respectable image
- purely decorative
focuses on the lack of function; used for objects rather than behaviour
- all show
informal; stronger criticism, meaning nothing is real or useful
- functional
having a real practical purpose
- genuine
real and sincere rather than pretended
文法句型
be + for show
用法筆記
Almost always follows the verb 'be' in a predicate position ('is for show', 'was for show'). The phrase carries a mildly negative tone, implying that something is misleading or fake.
常見錯誤
for show — 片語
1. describes items that are placed where people can see them but are not meant to b
僅供展示
僅供觀看，不可使用或購買
describes items that are placed where people can see them but are not meant to be touched, used, or purchased by customers or visitors
The smartphones on the counter were for show only, so Tuan could not test them.
櫃檯上的智慧型手機僅供展示，所以 Tuan 無法試用。
for show only — common sign label
Diego noticed the window cakes were for show; the real ones were behind the counter.
Diego 注意到櫥窗裡的蛋糕僅供展示；真正的蛋糕在櫃檯後面。
Toys on the top shelf were for show; children played with those in baskets below.
高架上層的玩具僅供展示；孩子們玩的是底下籃子裡的玩具。
A small sign next to the vase read 'For show — do not touch.'
花瓶旁邊有張小標示寫著「僅供展示——請勿觸摸」。
- on display
neutral; describes items shown to the public without specifying they cannot be used or bought
- display only
more formal and restricted to signs and labels
- for sale
available to be bought by customers
文法句型
be + for show
for show only
用法筆記
Commonly seen on signs or labels near display models in shops, museums, and exhibitions. The phrase 'for show only' is a fixed sign formula.
2. describes behaviour or actions that a person performs mainly to win approval, ad
討好他人
為獲得認同或好感而做
describes behaviour or actions that a person performs mainly to win approval, admiration, or good opinions from other people, rather than from genuine intention
Rachid's shelter volunteering was mainly for show; he rarely came after the first week.
Rachid 在收容所的志工服務主要是討好他人；他第一週之後就很少來了。
be + for show — describing insincere behaviour
Gita realised her colleague's offers of help were for show — he never followed through.
Gita 發現她同事那些幫忙提議是在討好他人——他從來沒有做到。
Sirin bought the designer handbag for show, even though she could not pay her rent.
Sirin 買了那款設計師手提包是為了討好他人，即使她連房租都付不出來。
The manager's open-door policy was for show; staff who knocked were told to return later.
經理的「敞開大門」政策是在討好他人；敲門的員工都被叫晚點再來。
- for appearance's sake
more formal; also implies insincerity but slightly less harsh
- for effect
focuses on creating a dramatic impact rather than winning approval
文法句型
be + for show
用法筆記
Carries a clear negative connotation: the person's behaviour is not sincere. The phrase judges the action as fake or selfish. Typically follows the verb 'be'.