Below are two formal and polite equivalents (synonyms) of 'show' which you can use in your business or professional pieces of writing.

There are many meanings of 'show'. The one used here is when you want to explain, clarify or prove a point to somebody by giving them an example or showing them some data (e.g. in a graph).

Demonstrate

Is a synonym of 'show' for the above meaning and although not too formal, it is still commonly used in professional and business communications.

'The owner used a graph to demonstrate her firm's profitability to the potential buyers.'

'Let me tell you a story of going to a restaurant to demonstrate what I am saying about the importance of customer service.'

Illustrate

Is a formal synonym of 'show' for the above meaning and is often used in professional, academic and business communications.

'The owner used a graph to illustrate her firm's profitability to the potential buyers.'

'Let me tell you a story of going to a restaurant to illustrate what I am saying about the importance of customer service.'


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