01
zeigen
to show
To make something visible to someone by pointing to it or holding it up for them.
example
Können Sie mir bitte den Weg zum Bahnhof auf der Karte zeigen?
Could you please show me the way to the train station on the map?
zeigen
to show
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 05
Usage tips
Dative and accusative
'Zeigen' (to show) is very often used with two objects: a person in the dative (to whom you show something) and a thing in the accusative (what you show). The order is usually dative before accusative.
EXAMPLE
Der Lehrer zeigt den Schülern (Dativ) ein Experiment (Akkusativ).
The teacher shows the students (dative) an experiment (accusative).
Reflexive: 'sich zeigen'
In the reflexive form 'sich zeigen' (to appear / to become visible), the verb means 'erscheinen' (to appear) or 'sichtbar werden' (to become visible). The subject is often something that could not be seen before.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Regen zeigte sich ein Regenbogen am Himmel.
After the rain, a rainbow appeared in the sky.
Colloquial meaning
In colloquial language, 'jemanden zeigen' can mean to report someone to the police. This usage should be avoided in formal contexts.
EXAMPLE
Wegen der wiederholten Ruhestörung hat er seinen Nachbarn gezeigt.
Because of the repeated noise disturbance, he reported his neighbor.
Feelings and reactions
To express that one lets a feeling or attitude be seen, 'zeigen' (to show) is combined with abstract nouns. Typical phrases are: Interesse zeigen (to show interest), Verständnis zeigen (to show understanding), Mut zeigen (to show courage), or Wirkung zeigen (to show an effect).
EXAMPLE
Der Sportler zeigte großen Kampfgeist.
The athlete showed great fighting spirit.
With facts and data
When demonstrating facts, the subject is often impersonal, such as a study or a result. Often a subordinate clause with 'dass' (that) or 'wie' (how) follows.
EXAMPLE
Die Erfahrung zeigt, dass diese Methode am effektivsten ist.
Experience shows that this method is the most effective.
Pointing with a preposition
When physically pointing to something, the preposition 'auf' (+ accusative) is often used. You can point at something with your finger or show someone something on a plan.
EXAMPLE
Sie zeigte auf das Bild an der Wand.
She pointed at the picture on the wall.
Compare with
zeigen vs Tag
day
'an den Tag legen' and 'zeigen' can both mean that a person makes a behavior or quality visible. 'zeigen' is the normal and direct word: you show patience, joy, or interest. 'an den Tag legen' is a fixed expression and sounds somewhat more elevated. It fits especially with qualities or behavior, for example courage, patience, or great care. In everyday language, 'zeigen' is usually simpler and more natural; 'an den Tag legen' sounds more formal.
zeigen
Meine Freundin zeigt zu Hause viel Verständnis für ihre Familie.
My friend shows a lot of understanding for her family at home.
Tag
Bei der schwierigen Aufgabe legt sie viel Geduld an den Tag.
She displays a lot of patience with the difficult task.
In real life
Loading video examples...