PhrasesHub

Steal the show

    Definitions

      • To outshine or overshadow others in a performance or event
        Used to describe someone who has captivated the audience's attention and impressed them with their performance or presence, making everyone else seem less impressive or noteworthy in comparison

      • To take all of the attention and praise for oneself
        Can be used in a more negative sense to describe someone who is hogging all the attention and glory in a situation, leaving little recognition for others involved.

    Examples of Steal the show

    • Sarah's stunning performance at the recital completely stole the show.

      This idiom is used to describe someone or something that captivates the audience's attention and overshadows other performers or events. In this example, Sarah's performance was so impressive that it outshone all the other performers and made the audience forget about them.

    • The bride's dress stole the show at the wedding.

      This idiom is used to describe an object or person that attracts a lot of attention and becomes the center of attention. In this example, the bride's dress was so beautiful and eye-catching that it stole the show from the bride herself and all the other decorations and details at the wedding.

    • The new product is expected to steal the show at the trade fair.

      This idiom is used to describe a product or service that is expected to be highly successful and outperform its competitors. In this example, the new product is expected to be so impressive and innovative that it will overshadow all the other products at the trade fair.

    • The comedian's witty remarks stole the show at the comedy club.

      This idiom is used to describe someone's humor or talent that makes them stand out and be the most entertaining performer. In this example, the comedian's jokes and humor were so funny and engaging that they stole the show from all the other comedians at the club.

    • The band's energetic performance stole the show at the music festival.

      This idiom is used to describe a band or musical group that puts on an exceptional and unforgettable performance that captivates the audience. In this example, the band's high-energy performance was so impressive that it stole the show from all the other bands at the festival.


    Conclusion

    In summary, the idiom "steal the show" refers to someone who is the center of attention and impresses others with their performance or presence, often overshadowing others in the process. It can also be used to describe someone who takes all the credit and recognition for themselves, leaving little room for others to shine.

    Origin of "Steal the show"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the world of theater. In early theater productions, it was common for actors to literally steal props or costumes from other actors in order to make their own performance stand out. This act of stealing the show became associated with being the most impressive and captivating performer on stage.

    Over time, the idiom evolved to be used in a figurative sense, no longer referring to the literal act of stealing but still carrying the connotation of being the most impressive and captivating. It is now commonly used in various contexts outside of the theater, such as in sports, business, and social situations.

    Examples:

    • The new singer really stole the show with her powerful performance.
    • Despite the team's loss, the rookie player stole the show with his exceptional skills.
    • The CEO always manages to steal the show at company events with his charismatic speeches.
    • The comedian's hilarious jokes stole the show at the comedy club.
    • The lead actress stole the show with her stunning performance, overshadowing the supporting actors.