Meaning & use
public display
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Meanings
nouncountable
An act of showing something openly to people in a public place.
Grammar: Countable: a public display, public displays.
Patterns
- public display of something
- a public display of affection
- make a public display of something
The couple's public display of affection made some people uncomfortable.
The protest was a public display of anger against the new law.
He avoided any public display of emotion during the ceremony.
nouncountable
An exhibition or presentation of objects or information for the public to see.
Grammar: Often used for art, historical items, or data shown in a public place.
Patterns
- public display of art
- on public display
- a public display of something
The museum's public display of ancient coins attracted many visitors.
The new sculpture is now on public display in the city square.
The company made a public display of its financial records.
Word forms
| plural | public displays |
|---|
Common combinations
- public display of affection
- They were criticized for their public display of affection in the park.
- on public display
- The painting is on public display for the first time.
- make a public display of
- She made a public display of her disappointment.
- public display of emotion
- He never makes a public display of emotion.
Synonyms and how they differ
- exhibition
- More formal and often refers to an organized event with many items; 'public display' is broader and can be informal.
- show
- More informal and general; 'public display' emphasizes that it is open to the public.
Opposites
Word family
- display verb
- To show something publicly.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'public display' correctly?
Choose one answer.
All three sentences use 'public display' correctly in different contexts: an exhibition, showing off an object, and showing affection. Each is grammatical and natural.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “public display”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.