Professional writers can strengthen their explanatory language by replacing the vague phrase "this shows" with more precise alternatives. Effective synonyms include "this illustrates," "this reveals," "this indicates," "this highlights," and "this confirms," each offering nuanced ways to connect ideas and evidence. Additional options like "this demonstrates," "this establishes," "this proves," "this suggests," and "this verifies" provide further linguistic variety. The following sections explore these alternatives in greater depth.
Is It Professional to Use 'This Shows'?
Using "this shows" in professional writing can be problematic, as it often creates weak shifts and vague references that diminish the overall quality of the text. The phrase frequently appears as a crutch in academic and business writing, indicating an unclear connection between ideas or serving as a weak connection between paragraphs.
Professional writers and editors generally recommend avoiding "this shows" because it can create ambiguity about what exactly is being referenced. The expression often fails to specify whether it refers to a specific piece of evidence, an entire paragraph, or a broader concept. Instead, writers should opt for more precise language that clearly identifies the subject and its relationship to the conclusion being drawn, thereby strengthening the logical flow and professional tone of their writing.
Why You Might Use a Different Word To 'This Shows'
Professional writers choose alternatives to "this shows" for several compelling reasons. The phrase can often appear repetitive in academic or business writing, particularly when used multiple times throughout a document. Additionally, more specific alternatives can provide greater precision and clarity about the exact relationship between ideas being discussed.
Using varied language helps maintain reader engagement and demonstrates a broader command of vocabulary. More precise alternatives can also strengthen the logical flow of an argument by explicitly stating how one point connects to another. Moreover, alternative phrases can better convey the strength or nature of the evidence being presented, whether it suggests, proves, demonstrates, or indicates a particular conclusion. This linguistic flexibility allows writers to communicate with greater accuracy and sophistication.
10 Synonyms for 'This Shows'
1. This Illustrates
This synonym emphasizes a clear proof or illustration of a concept. It's particularly effective when presenting evidence or explaining cause-and-effect relationships in academic or professional contexts. The term carries more formal weight than "shows" and implies a deliberate presentation of facts or data. It's especially useful in research papers, scientific writing, or business presentations where concrete evidence supports a claim.
Example use:
"This illustrates the direct correlation between exercise and improved mental health."
"This illustrates why proper planning is essential for project success."
"This illustrates how technological advances have transformed modern communication."
2. This Reveals
Best used when uncovering or exposing previously unknown information or hidden patterns. Perfect for situations where new insights or discoveries are being presented. The term suggests an element of disclosure or illumination and works well in investigative reports, research findings, or analytical pieces. It carries a sense of discovery that makes it particularly engaging for readers.
Example use:
"This reveals the underlying causes of market volatility."
"This reveals patterns in consumer behavior that weren't previously apparent."
"This reveals why traditional marketing methods are becoming less effective."
3. This Indicates
A measured, cautious way to present evidence that suggests but doesn't definitively prove a conclusion. Ideal for scientific writing or situations where correlation rather than causation is being discussed. It's particularly useful in preliminary research findings or when discussing trends that point toward certain conclusions without absolute certainty.
Example use:
"This indicates a potential shift in public opinion."
"This indicates the treatment may be effective, though more research is needed."
"This indicates growing concern among environmental scientists."
4. This Illustrates
Perfect for situations where an example or story helps explain a broader concept. Especially useful when using specific cases to highlight general principles or when making abstract ideas more concrete through examples. It works well in educational contexts or when trying to make complex ideas more accessible to a general audience.
Example use:
"This illustrates why team communication is essential for project success."
"This illustrates the basic principles of supply and demand."
"This illustrates how small changes can lead to significant results."
5. This Highlights
Effective when emphasizing key points or drawing attention to particularly important aspects of an argument or situation. It's useful for focusing reader attention on essential elements within a larger context. The term works well in presentations, reports, or analyses where certain findings deserve special attention.
Example use:
"This highlights the importance of early intervention in education."
"This highlights a significant gap in current research."
"This highlights why cybersecurity should be a top priority."
6. This Suggests
A more tentative way to present conclusions or interpretations. Ideal for situations where you want to propose ideas without making absolute claims. It's particularly useful in academic writing when discussing preliminary findings or proposing possible interpretations of data.
Example use:
"This suggests a correlation between diet and sleep quality."
"This suggests new approaches may be needed in urban planning."
"This suggests that traditional methods might need revision."
7. This Confirms
Used when presenting evidence that supports or validates previously held theories or expectations. Best for situations where new data or findings reinforce existing knowledge. It's particularly effective in scientific writing or when discussing research that verifies hypotheses.
Example use:
"This confirms our initial hypothesis about climate change impacts."
"This confirms what industry experts have long suspected."
"This confirms the effectiveness of the new treatment protocol."
8. This Evidences
A formal way to present proof or support for an argument. Particularly useful in legal or academic contexts where specific proof is being presented. It implies a strong connection between evidence and conclusion and works well in professional or scholarly writing.
Example use:
"This evidences the growing trend toward remote work."
"This evidences the need for policy reform."
"This evidences systematic problems in the current approach."
9. This Underscores
Effective when reinforcing or emphasizing important points, particularly in persuasive writing. It suggests that the evidence strongly supports or reinforces a particular argument or conclusion. Useful in policy documents, opinion pieces, or analytical reports.
Example use:
"This underscores the urgency of climate action."
"This underscores why investment in education is essential."
"This underscores the importance of diversity in the workplace."
10. This Establishes
Used when presenting definitive evidence that proves or sets up a clear foundation for an argument. Best for situations where strong, conclusive evidence supports a claim. Particularly effective in formal writing where definitive conclusions are being drawn.
Example use:
"This establishes a clear link between smoking and health risks."
"This establishes the basis for our new company policy."
"This establishes precedent for future legal cases."
Final Thoughts
The effective use of synonyms for "this shows" can markedly enhance writing clarity and professional impact across various contexts. By incorporating varied connective phrases and explanatory expressions, writers can create more engaging and sophisticated content while avoiding repetitive language. These alternatives help establish clearer connections between ideas and evidence, strengthening the overall coherence of written arguments and explanations.
Moving forward, writers should maintain a diverse vocabulary of connective expressions in their linguistic toolkit, selecting the most appropriate term for each specific context. Regular practice with these alternatives will naturally improve writing fluency and style, leading to more polished and professional communication. The key is to choose synonyms that precisely convey the intended relationship between ideas while maintaining a natural flow in the writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can 'This Shows' Be Used Effectively in Creative Writing and Poetry?
'This shows' can serve creative writing and poetry when used sparingly and intentionally. However, more evocative language often better captures nuanced emotions, metaphors, and artistic descriptions in these genres.
How Often Should Transitional Phrases Like 'This Shows' Appear in Academic Writing?
Academic writers should limit "this shows" to once or twice per page, using varied connectors to maintain reader engagement and demonstrate sophisticated analytical skills throughout their work.
Are There Industry-Specific Alternatives to 'This Shows' in Technical Documentation?
Technical documentation employs field-specific alternatives like "demonstrates," "indicates," "validates," "confirms," "verifies," "establishes," and "proves," with usage varying based on the industry's standard terminology and evidence type.
Should 'This Shows' Be Avoided Completely in Professional Emails?
While "this shows" can be used in professional emails, varying language with alternatives like "demonstrates," "indicates," or "illustrates" creates more polished and engaging business communication.
What Are the Cultural Differences in Using 'This Shows' Across English-Speaking Countries?
Cultural variations exist in using 'this shows' across English-speaking regions. British English tends toward formal alternatives, while American English accepts more casual usage in professional communications.
