Professional writers can strengthen their work by using sophisticated alternatives to "this shows that" when presenting evidence. Common substitutes include "this indicates that," "this suggests that," "this reveals that," "this evidences that," "this confirms that," "this illustrates that," "this establishes that," "this proves that," "this validates that," and "this demonstrates that." Each alternative offers nuanced ways to express relationships between evidence and conclusions. The following sections explore how these alternatives enhance writing quality and analytical precision.
Is It Professional to Use 'This Shows That'?
While "this shows that" is a common connection phrase in academic and professional writing, many experts consider it somewhat informal and potentially redundant. Professional writers often prefer more sophisticated alternatives that demonstrate stronger analytical thinking and clearer relationships between ideas. The phrase can appear repetitive in formal documents, particularly when used multiple times throughout a text, and may suggest a simplistic approach to presenting evidence and conclusions.
In academic and business contexts, writers are encouraged to employ more precise language that explicitly describes the relationship between evidence and conclusions. Using varied linking phrases not only enhances the writing's sophistication but also helps maintain reader engagement and demonstrates a broader command of professional vocabulary. This consideration is especially important in formal reports, research papers, and business communications.
Why You Might Use a Different Word To 'This Shows That'
Replacing "this shows that" with alternative phrases serves multiple purposes in professional and academic writing. Using varied language demonstrates a sophisticated command of English and helps maintain reader engagement throughout a document. Writers often need to avoid repetition that can make their work sound monotonous or simplistic.
Moreover, different contexts may require more precise or nuanced ways of expressing causal relationships. For instance, scientific writing might benefit from phrases that convey specific degrees of certainty, while analytical essays might need words that articulate exact logical connections. Academic writing standards also frequently encourage authors to employ diverse transitional phrases to strengthen their arguments and demonstrate complex thinking. Additionally, some style guides and instructors specifically advise against overusing basic phrases like "this shows that" in formal writing.
10 Synonyms for 'This Shows That'
1. This indicates that
Best used when presenting clear evidence or proof of a concept. Particularly effective in academic or scientific writing where a direct cause-and-effect relationship needs to be established. Carries a tone of authority and implies that concrete evidence has been presented. Useful when concluding an experiment or analysis. Works well when shifting from data to interpretation.
Example use:
"The rapid decline in population numbers indicates that the species is under severe environmental stress."
"The consistent test results indicate that our hypothesis was correct."
"These market trends indicate that consumer behavior is shifting towards sustainable products."
2. This suggests that
Ideal for suggesting correlations or patterns without implying absolute causation. Suitable for preliminary findings or when discussing trends and tendencies. Less definitive than "indicates," making it appropriate for initial observations. Good choice for professional reports where some degree of uncertainty is acceptable. Works well in both formal and informal contexts.
Example use:
"The survey data suggests that most respondents prefer flexible working hours."
"The rising temperature suggests that we may need to adjust the cooling system."
"Recent research suggests that meditation can improve mental health."
3. This reveals that
Perfect for introducing surprising or previously unknown information. Particularly effective when uncovering hidden patterns or presenting new discoveries. Adds an element of discovery or disclosure to the discussion. Useful in investigative reports or research presentations. Creates anticipation for the information that follows.
Example use:
"Further analysis reveals that the compound has unexpected properties."
"The newly discovered document reveals that historical accounts were incorrect."
"The market research reveals that customers value sustainability over price."
4. This suggests that
Best for making tentative or preliminary conclusions. Useful when discussing possibilities without making definitive claims. Appropriate for hypothetical scenarios or theoretical discussions. Works well in academic writing where cautious interpretation is valued. Helps maintain a balanced and objective tone.
Example use:
"The preliminary data suggests that the treatment may be effective."
"The pattern of behavior suggests that the species is adapting to urban environments."
"Customer feedback suggests that the new feature needs refinement."
5. This evidences that
Ideal for formal or legal contexts where proof is being presented. Strong choice when establishing factual support for an argument. Particularly useful in professional documents or academic papers. Implies a high degree of certainty based on concrete evidence. Effective in persuasive writing.
Example use:
"The documented increase evidences that our strategy is working."
"The statistical analysis evidences that there is a significant correlation."
"The witness statement evidences that the incident occurred as reported."
6. This confirms that
Best used when verifying or validating previously held assumptions or hypotheses. Particularly effective when presenting conclusive evidence. Useful for reinforcing existing theories or expectations. Works well in formal reports and scientific writing. Implies a high degree of certainty.
Example use:
"The latest experiment confirms that our initial theory was correct."
"The audit confirms that all procedures were properly followed."
"The market response confirms that our product meets consumer needs."
7. This illustrates that
Perfect for making points through examples or visual representations. Particularly useful when explaining complex concepts through simpler analogies. Effective in educational contexts or when clarifying ideas. Works well when connecting concrete examples to abstract concepts. Helps make information more accessible to audiences.
Example use:
"This case study illustrates that effective leadership is essential for success."
"The graph illustrates that sales peak during holiday seasons."
"This example illustrates that small changes can have significant impacts."
8. This establishes that
Ideal for presenting foundational or definitive conclusions. Best used when setting up key principles or fundamental facts. Particularly effective in formal or academic writing. Useful for creating strong logical foundations for further arguments. Implies authoritative and conclusive evidence.
Example use:
"The research establishes that climate change is affecting migration patterns."
"This document establishes that the agreement was legally binding."
"The experiment establishes that the theory holds true under these conditions."
9. This proves that
Best for situations requiring absolute certainty or mathematical proof. Most appropriate when evidence is irrefutable or logically conclusive. Particularly effective in scientific or mathematical contexts. Should be used carefully as it implies absolute certainty. Works well in formal demonstrations or proofs.
Example use:
"The mathematical solution proves that the theorem is correct."
"This documentation proves that the payment was made on time."
"The DNA analysis proves that the species are related."
10. This validates that
Perfect for confirming the accuracy or legitimacy of previous assertions. Particularly useful in quality assurance or verification contexts. Effective when discussing tested hypotheses or confirmed predictions. Works well in professional or technical documentation. Implies thorough testing or verification.
Example use:
"The test results validate that the software meets all requirements."
"This certification validates that the product meets industry standards."
"The peer review validates that our methodology is sound."
Final Thoughts
Mastery of shifting phrases enhances both clarity and professionalism in written communication. By incorporating varied linking expressions that demonstrate evidence or conclusions, writers can effectively convey their analytical thinking while maintaining reader engagement. The ability to alternate between different phrases prevents repetitive language and strengthens the overall impact of academic or professional writing.
Understanding and implementing these alternatives to "this shows that" represents an essential skill in effective writing. Writers who consciously expand their linking vocabulary demonstrate sophisticated command of language while ensuring their message remains clear and accessible. Moving forward, practitioners should regularly incorporate these alternatives into their writing routine, treating them as valuable tools for constructing well-crafted arguments and presenting evidence-based conclusions in their professional communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can 'This Shows That' Be Used in Creative or Narrative Writing?
While 'this shows that' can appear in creative writing, authors typically favor more descriptive shifts and literary devices to reveal connections between events, emotions, or character developments naturally.
How Often Should Transition Phrases Be Used in Academic Writing?
Shift phrases in academic writing should appear at strategic points, typically at the beginning of paragraphs and between major ideas, averaging every 3-4 sentences to maintain logical flow.
Are There Cultural Differences in Using 'This Shows That' Across English-Speaking Countries?
Cultural variations exist in using 'this shows that' across English-speaking regions. Academic writers in British English tend toward more formal alternatives, while American English accepts more direct phrasing.
Should 'This Shows That' Be Avoided in Thesis Statements?
While 'this shows that' can work in thesis statements, stronger alternatives like 'demonstrates,' 'establishes,' or 'reveals' often create more impactful arguments and showcase greater scholarly sophistication in academic writing.
Can These Synonyms Be Used Effectively in Oral Presentations?
Synonyms for expressing evidence and conclusions can enhance oral presentations by providing variety in speech patterns, maintaining audience engagement, and establishing speaker credibility through sophisticated language choices.