表す

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 表す (あらわす) is a transitive verb meaning to show, represent, or express something not directly visible.
• Basic usage: It is used when a line represents changing values or a letter expresses a feeling.
  • 赤い線は気温の変化を表している。 — The red line shows changes in temperature.
  • 感謝の気持ちを短い手紙で表した。 — I expressed my gratitude in a short letter.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Expressing and appearing
  • 表す is transitive: a subject shows or expresses meaning or feeling, while 現れる is intransitive and describes something appearing.