show willing

== English == === Verb === show willing (third-person singular simple present shows willing, present participle showing willing, simple past showed willing, past participle shown willing or showed willing) To show enthusiasm and energy. To make a valiant effort. 1935 W.H. White, A complete physics written for London medical students and general use, (Clay & Sons, London) §91 p.61: No top or gyroscope has actually been balanced perfectly enough to guide an astronomical telescope, but they show willing. To indicate one's willingness; to acquiesce, co-operate. To pretend to be willing; to bluff. ==== Synonyms ==== (show enthusiasm): look lively (pretend to be willing): pay lip service; make an idle promise === Further reading === “show willing”, in Merriam-Webster.com Online Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: Merriam-Webster, 1996–present. “show willing” in Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English, Longman.