show the flag
The idiom "show the flag" originated from naval traditions and has since expanded to represent displays of national pride and authority in various contexts.
Definition
B2Patriotic Display
(literal)To display the national flag as an expression of pride.
Example
- During the national holiday, citizens are encouraged to show the flag.
C1Military and Naval Operations
(idiomatic, military)For a naval vessel or military force to display its national flag to assert authority and influence.
Example
- The navy ships were sent to show the flag in international waters.
C1Representation and Diplomacy
(idiomatic, diplomatic)To represent or promote one's country or organization in an official capacity.
Example
- The ambassador attended the summit to show the flag for his country.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "show the flag":
fly the flagflag gunstrike one's flagflag rankflag dayhouse flagshow outgreen flagshow offshow oneselfblack flagyellow flagfalse flagwave the white flagwhite flagshow one's clawsfor showdragon flagcapture the flagshowing offbeige flagrainbow flagflag of conveniencered flagflag on the playshow who's boss