Another Phrase For This Shows

Beyond "This Shows": A Comprehensive Guide to Alternative Phrases for Demonstrating Evidence

"This shows..." is a common phrase used to introduce evidence supporting a claim. However, its repetitive use can make writing sound monotonous and less engaging. This article explores a wide array of alternative phrases, categorized by nuance and context, to help you enrich your writing and present evidence more effectively. We'll delve into the subtle differences in meaning and usage, providing examples to illustrate each alternative, ensuring your writing becomes more dynamic and impactful. This guide is designed for writers of all levels, from students crafting essays to professionals preparing reports. Learning to diversify your language will enhance your communication skills significantly.

Understanding the Context: Why Varying Your Language Matters

Before diving into specific alternatives, it's crucial to understand why replacing "this shows" is beneficial. Overusing this phrase weakens your writing in several ways:

• Monotony: Repeated use makes your writing predictable and boring.
• Lack of Precision: "This shows" is a general phrase; more specific alternatives convey the nature of the evidence more accurately.
• Weakness in Argumentation: Stronger verbs and phrases create a more persuasive and confident tone.

By using varied phrasing, you demonstrate a deeper understanding of your subject and enhance the overall impact of your arguments.

Categorizing Alternatives: A Nuance-Based Approach

We can categorize alternative phrases based on the type of evidence being presented and the desired effect on the reader. This allows for a more nuanced and effective communication of your findings.

1. Highlighting Evidence of Causation or Correlation:

• Instead of: "This shows a correlation between X and Y."
• Try:
  • "This indicates a strong correlation between X and Y."
  • "The data suggests a causal link between X and Y."
  • "These findings demonstrate a clear relationship between X and Y."
  • "This reveals a significant correlation between X and Y."
  • "The evidence points to a causal connection between X and Y."
  • "This supports the hypothesis that X influences Y."

These alternatives offer a more sophisticated and precise way to express a causal or correlational relationship. The verbs chosen highlight the strength and nature of the connection, making your argument more convincing.

2. Presenting Statistical Evidence:

• Instead of: "This shows a significant increase in sales."
• Try:
  • "The statistics reveal a significant increase in sales."
  • "The data illustrates a substantial rise in sales figures."
  • "Analysis indicates a statistically significant increase in sales."
  • "The findings confirm a considerable upswing in sales."
  • "These figures demonstrate a notable increase in sales."
  • "Our quantitative analysis shows (or reveals) a marked increase in sales." (Using "shows" here is acceptable, as it's less repetitive when integrated with a more descriptive phrase.)

When presenting numerical data, precise language is crucial. These alternatives emphasize the accuracy and significance of the statistical findings.

3. Emphasizing the Significance of the Evidence:

• Instead of: "This shows the importance of X."
• Try:
  • "This highlights the critical role of X."
  • "This underscores the significance of X."
  • "This emphasizes the crucial contribution of X."
  • "The findings underscore the importance of X for..."
  • "This reinforces the significance of X in..."
  • "This underscores the need for further research into X."

These options add weight and importance to your evidence, making your argument more impactful. They also subtly change the tone, allowing for a more convincing presentation.

4. Presenting Evidence of a Trend or Pattern:

• Instead of: "This shows a trend towards X."
• Try:
  • "The data reveals a clear trend towards X."
  • "The evidence suggests an emerging trend towards X."
  • "The analysis indicates a growing tendency towards X."
  • "These findings demonstrate a pattern of increasing X."
  • "This illustrates a developing trend towards X."
  • "The results highlight a significant shift toward X."

These alternatives effectively communicate the presence of a trend without relying on the overused "this shows." The choice of verb will depend on the strength of the observed trend.

5. Introducing Qualitative Evidence (e.g., quotes, observations):

• Instead of: "This shows the participants' dissatisfaction."
• Try:
  • "Participant responses indicate a high level of dissatisfaction."
  • "The qualitative data reveals widespread dissatisfaction among participants."
  • "The interviews illustrate the participants' significant dissatisfaction."
  • "Observations suggest a prevalent sense of dissatisfaction among participants."
  • "This excerpt from the interview demonstrates the depth of participants' dissatisfaction."
  • "As evidenced by the following quote, participants expressed considerable dissatisfaction:..."

When dealing with qualitative evidence, contextualizing the evidence is crucial. These alternatives provide more descriptive ways to present this type of information, enhancing clarity and impact.

6. Focusing on Implications and Consequences:

• Instead of: "This shows the negative consequences of X."
• Try:
  • "This reveals the detrimental effects of X."
  • "The findings highlight the negative implications of X."
  • "This underscores the serious consequences resulting from X."
  • "The analysis demonstrates the adverse outcomes associated with X."
  • "This points to the potentially harmful consequences of X."
  • "The data suggests that X may lead to..."

Focusing on implications and consequences adds depth to your analysis and reinforces the significance of your findings. These alternatives emphasize the broader impact of your evidence.

Beyond Single Phrases: Structuring Your Arguments

Remember that replacing "this shows" with a single alternative isn't always sufficient. Consider restructuring your sentences for a more impactful presentation:

• Instead of: "This shows a problem. This shows a solution."
• Try: "The data reveals a significant problem, characterized by X. A potential solution involves Y, as suggested by Z."

This approach integrates the evidence seamlessly into the argument's flow, creating a more cohesive and persuasive narrative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is it ever okay to use "this shows"?

A: While it's best to avoid overusing "this shows," it's not inherently wrong. Use it sparingly and only when no more suitable alternative immediately comes to mind. Consider the context and aim for variety in your language.

Q: How do I choose the best alternative?

A: The best alternative depends on the specific context of your writing and the type of evidence you are presenting. Consider the nuance of your argument and the strength of your evidence.

Q: What if I'm unsure which phrase to use?

A: If you're unsure, consider rereading your sentence and identifying the key message you want to convey. Then, select a phrase that accurately and concisely reflects that message.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Writing with Precise Language

Replacing the ubiquitous "this shows" with more precise and varied phrasing significantly enhances your writing. By selecting alternatives that accurately reflect the nature of your evidence and the intended effect, you'll create a more engaging, impactful, and persuasive piece. Remember to consider the nuances of your argument, the strength of your evidence, and the overall tone you want to convey. Consistent use of varied language demonstrates your mastery of the subject and elevates your writing to a new level of sophistication and clarity. Mastering this skill will significantly improve your communication abilities and make your work stand out.