When combined, 显示 (xiǎnshì) literally means “to clearly show” or “to make apparent by revealing.” The two characters reinforce each other to create a strong, clear meaning of “to display.”
While 显示 (xiǎnshì) is not a deeply philosophical term like 关系 (guānxi), its modern usage reveals a lot about contemporary China. Culturally, traditional Chinese communication can often be indirect and high-context. Feelings and intentions are often hinted at rather than stated outright. 显示 (xiǎnshì) stands in contrast to this. It represents a more direct, modern, and often data-driven way of communication. It is the language of technology, science, and business where clarity and objectivity are essential. Compare this to the English word “show.” You can “show” emotion, “show” a friend your new car, or “show” your work. In Chinese, these situations would likely use different words. 显示 (xiǎnshì) is specifically for the kind of “showing” that is about presenting objective facts or visual information. The rise of this word in everyday language parallels China's rapid technological and economic development, where data and clear information have become increasingly important.
显示 (xiǎnshì) is extremely common in modern life, especially in formal or technical contexts.
It is generally considered neutral and formal. In casual conversation, you would more likely use a simpler phrase like 给我看看 (gěi wǒ kànkan - let me see).