Which one is correct?
"he didn't show up" or "he doesn't show up"?

TextRanch: The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

100% Human-Powered Editing!

he didn't show up

This phrase is correct and commonly used to talk about a past event where someone failed to appear.

This phrase is used to describe a situation in the past where someone was expected to be present but was not.

Examples:

  • He didn't show up for the meeting yesterday.
  • I waited for hours, but he didn't show up.
  • She didn't show up at the party last night.

Alternatives:

  • He failed to appear.
  • He was absent.
  • He was a no-show.

he doesn't show up

This phrase is correct and commonly used to talk about a habitual action or a general truth about someone's behavior.

This phrase is used to describe a recurring behavior or a general truth about someone's tendency not to appear.

Examples:

  • He doesn't show up on time for work.
  • She doesn't show up for appointments.
  • He doesn't show up when you need him.

Alternatives:

  • He is always absent.
  • He never appears.
  • He consistently fails to show up.
Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'He didn't show up' is used to talk about a past event where someone failed to appear, while 'he doesn't show up' is used to talk about a habitual action or a general truth about someone's behavior.

Last Updated: March 29, 2024

Related Comparisons

Why choose TextRanch?

Lowest prices
Up to 50% lower than other online editing sites.

Fastest Times
Our team of editors is working for you 24/7.

Qualified Editors
Native English experts for UK or US English.

Top Customer Service
We are here to help. Satisfaction guaranteed!