How to Write 示 (shì) — Meaning “to show; to indicate”

Picture the top horizontal line as a table and the three strokes below as items placed on it—you are 'showing' them. The small dot at the bottom is like a person pointing down to indicate something.

Start with the top horizontal stroke, then the second horizontal stroke below, followed by the vertical stroke through them. Finally, add the left and right small strokes (like dots) in the lower part—make sure the vertical line connects both horizontals and the bottom strokes are balanced.

表示 (biǎoshì) means 'to express' or 'to indicate,' as in 'He nodded to show agreement.' 出示 (chūshì) means 'to show an ID or document,' like when you need to show your ticket. 指示 (zhǐshì) means 'instruction' or 'to indicate,' such as following a teacher's directions.

示 appears in formal and everyday contexts, especially in writing and official situations where you need to show or indicate something. Culturally, it connects to ancient rituals of presenting offerings, so it often carries a tone of respect or clarity when revealing information.

Common words containing 示 include: 表示 (biǎo shì) — to express; to indicate; to show; 出示 (chū shì) — to show (ID, etc.); 指示 (zhǐ shì) — instruction; to indicate.