The phrase "shows how" is pronounced as /ʃəʊz haʊ/. The first part, "shows," is spelled with a "s" and "h" combination to represent the sound of /ʃ/ which is the voiceless postalveolar fricative. The second part, "how," is spelled with an "h" and "ow" to represent the diphthong /aʊ/ which is a combination of the vowel sounds /a/ and /ʊ/. Together, the phrase "shows how" is spelled to accurately represent the way it is pronounced.
The phrase "shows how" is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe or illustrate a process, method, or action that demonstrates or proves a particular point or argument. It is typically employed to emphasize the demonstration or explanation of something, highlighting the explicit steps or actions that occur. The term often denotes a clear and explicit depiction or example that ensures comprehension or understanding of a concept or idea.
In the context of explanations or demonstrations, "shows how" implies presenting a step-by-step procedure or describing a series of actions that reveal the process or mechanism behind a certain phenomenon. It is commonly used to offer evidence or support for a claim or hypothesis, by providing a visual, logical, or practical elucidation. The phrase can be found in various contexts, from educational or instructional settings to scientific, technical, or even artistic discussions, where the need to illustrate or highlight the functioning or implementation of a specific aspect is apparent.
Furthermore, the phrase "shows how" can also be employed rhetorically or persuasively, indicating the ability to persuade or influence others by aptly conveying the logic or effectiveness of a particular approach or strategy. It signifies the act of clarifying, explaining, or enlightening through concrete examples or explicit explanations. Overall, "shows how" encapsulates the essence of elucidating or manifesting a process, method, or action to effectively communicate or validate a point or argument.
The phrase "shows how" is not a word but a combination of words that commonly appear together in English sentences. Hence, it does not have a specific etymology of its own. Instead, we can briefly analyze the two individual words that make up the phrase:
1. Shows:
- From Old English "schawian" meaning "to look at, see, gaze upon; observe, perceive, understand; experience, undergo", derived from Proto-Germanic.
- Ultimately derived from the Proto-Indo-European root word "skau" meaning "to look" or "to see".
2. How:
- From Old English "hu" or "hū", meaning "how; to what degree, extent, or amount; in what manner or way", derived from Proto-Germanic.