表す

Etymology 1
Derived as the verb form of adjective, as a compound of , with an original meaning of “to make something open and public, to make something apparent”.

Verb

 * 1) to show, to make apparent
 * 2) to express, to put into words
 * 3) to signify, to represent, to symbolize, to stand for

Usage notes
This verb can be spelled many different ways. The spellings with the kana might be preferred for avoiding ambiguous readings. In general, which kanji to use depends on which sense one wishes to emphasize:
 * has connotations of and, and is most often used to spell arawasu when referring to expressing something in words or symbols.
 * has connotations of and, and is most often used to spell arawasu when referring to making something that was previously hidden now visible.
 * has connotations of and, and is most often used to spell arawasu when referring to making something widely known or publicizing.

Etymology 2
Derived from, as a compound of.

Verb

 * 1)  to express, to say in words, to put into words

Usage notes

 * This is an archaic form. The modern form is.