show the flag
Make presence known
Show the flag means to make one's presence known, especially as a display of power, solidarity, or commitment.
Originally naval—warships would sail into foreign ports to demonstrate national reach and capability.
Now used broadly for any appearance meant to signal involvement or support: The CEO showed the flag at the regional office.
Sometimes implies the visit is more symbolic than substantive.
Ceremonial public procession
- marchRhythmic group walk
- processionFormal moving line
- bannerDisplayed strip with message
- rallyGathering for a cause
demonstration · ceremony · spectacle · pageantry · unveiling · showcase · presentation · visibility
Devotion to one's country
- national prideEsteem for one's country
- loyaltyFaithful commitment to another
- citizenshipStatus as state member
- veteranExperienced former soldier
heroism · service · sacrifice · valor · freedom · independence · liberty · anthem
Representational sign or device
- insigniaDistinguishing mark of rank
- badgeWorn symbol of membership
- standardLevel of quality accepted
- colorsVisual spectrum variations
ensign · pennant · heraldry · iconography · representation · national symbol · sovereignty · statehood
Wholeness through cohesion
- supportTo uphold or sustain
- coalitionTemporary alliance for action
- allianceFormal union of parties
- togethernessState of close connection
cohesion · consensus · cooperation · collaboration · common cause · collective action · representation · presence
parade
Ceremonial public procession
- marchRhythmic group walk
- processionFormal moving line
- bannerDisplayed strip with message
rally · demonstration · ceremony · spectacle · pageantry · unveiling · showcase · presentation · visibility · public display
nationalism
Devotion to one's country
- national prideEsteem for one's country
- loyaltyFaithful commitment to another
- citizenshipStatus as state member
veteran · heroism · service · sacrifice · valor · freedom · independence · liberty · anthem · salute
emblem
Representational sign or device
colors · ensign · pennant · heraldry · iconography · representation · national symbol · sovereignty · statehood · allegory
unity
Wholeness through cohesion
togetherness · cohesion · consensus · cooperation · collaboration · common cause · collective action · representation · presence · joining forces
show the flaghide away
Conceal in seclusion
keep a low profile · make oneself scarce · go underground · keep one's head down · skulk
show, flag, shows, showed, shown, showing, shower, flags, flagged