showpiece: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Neutral to formal
Quick answer
What does “showpiece” mean?
An item or example that is displayed and admired as an outstanding specimen of its type.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An item or example that is displayed and admired as an outstanding specimen of its type.
Something that serves as an excellent or typical example, often used to demonstrate the best qualities of something or to attract attention and admiration.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or pronunciation differences. The usage is consistent.
Connotations
Slightly more common in British English in contexts related to heritage, architecture, or art. In American English, frequently used in business or sports contexts.
Frequency
Somewhat more frequent in British English, but widely understood and used in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “showpiece” in a Sentence
[be] a showpiece of [something][serve as] a showpiece for [something][become] the showpiece of [something]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to a flagship project or product that demonstrates a company's capabilities and success.
Academic
Used to describe a seminal work, a key example in a field, or a model case study.
Everyday
Often refers to a prized possession in a home, a garden feature, or a personal achievement shown with pride.
Technical
In architecture or design, denotes a building or object designed to be a standout feature.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “showpiece”
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “showpiece”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “showpiece”
- Using 'showpiece' to refer to a person in a derogatory way (can be awkward).
- Confusing 'showpiece' with 'showcase' (noun or verb). 'Showcase' is often the event or structure displaying something; a 'showpiece' is the item being displayed.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but cautiously. It can describe a person who is an outstanding example (e.g., 'She was the showpiece of the team'), but it may sound objectifying. 'Showcase' or 'star' is often safer for people.
A 'masterpiece' is a work of outstanding skill or artistry in itself. A 'showpiece' is something chosen to be displayed as a fine example; it may or may not be a masterpiece, but it is presented as representative of quality.
Generally, yes. It conveys admiration and excellence. However, in critical contexts, it can imply something is only for show, lacking substance (e.g., 'a mere showpiece').
Use it to describe a flagship project, product, or initiative that exemplifies success and is used for demonstration. E.g., 'The acquisition became the showpiece of our expansion strategy.'
An item or example that is displayed and admired as an outstanding specimen of its type.
Showpiece is usually neutral to formal in register.
Showpiece: in British English it is pronounced /ˈʃəʊpiːs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈʃoʊpiːs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'SHOW' where the best 'PIECE' of art is displayed. A SHOWPIECE is the piece you show off.
Conceptual Metaphor
AN OBJECT OF DISPLAY IS A TROPHY; EXCELLENCE IS A PHYSICAL OBJECT TO BE EXHIBITED.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'showpiece' LEAST appropriate?