exhibition
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɛksɪbˈɪʃən/
US
- /ˌɛksəˈbɪʃən/
Description
- show
- display
- presentation
An exhibition is a public display of things that people come to see. It might be a collection of paintings in a gallery, historical objects in a museum, or new products at a trade show. The idea is simple: something is arranged and presented so others can look at it and learn from it or enjoy it. You can visit an exhibition, and artists, companies, or museums can put on one. A science fair is an exhibition of student projects, and an art museum may hold an exhibition of modern paintings.
The word "exhibition" refers to a public display of works of art, objects, or other items that people are invited to come and see. It is often organized to inform, promote, or entertain. An exhibition is not just a random group of things in one place; it is usually arranged with a clear purpose so visitors can understand or enjoy the subject better.
Historically, exhibitions grew out of trade fairs and world's fairs, large events created to show new inventions, products, and cultural achievements. A famous example is the Great Exhibition in London in 1851, which brought together items from many parts of the world. Today, exhibitions appear in many forms. Art galleries host exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, or photography. Museums create historical exhibitions that help visitors explore the past through objects and stories. Trade shows are business exhibitions where companies present products and services to possible buyers or partners.
The term can also be used in a broader way. Someone might describe a performance as an exhibition of great skill, meaning that the skill is being clearly shown. Even then, the main idea stays the same: something is being presented for other people to observe. So when you walk through a museum, visit a gallery, or attend a trade event, you are taking part in an exhibition: a planned display that invites people to look closely and think about what they see.
Examples
- 1
Art museum
We went to an exhibition of modern art at the city museum.
- 2
Public display
Her photographs will be on exhibition until the end of May.
Phrase
on exhibition
being shown to the public
- 3
School event
The school is putting on an exhibition of students' work this weekend.
Phrase
put on an exhibition
organize one for people to visit
- 4
Business event
At the trade exhibition, several companies introduced new products.
Phrase
trade exhibition
an event where businesses show their products
- 5
Impressive display
In the final match, she gave an exhibition of control and confidence.
Pattern
an exhibition of + quality
a very impressive display of it
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- exhibitionnoun
Forms
- exhibitionspluralnoun