When writing essays, repeating the same phrase can make your writing seem monotonous and uninspired. “This shows” is one of the most common phrases used in essays, especially when drawing conclusions or explaining evidence. While it is functional, overusing it may reduce the richness of your content. Using alternative phrases enhances readability, keeps your audience engaged, and demonstrates your linguistic versatility.
In this article, we’ll explore 30 other words for “this shows” in an essay to elevate your writing. These alternatives will help you express your ideas clearly while maintaining variety. Whether you’re writing a persuasive, analytical, or narrative essay, these options will empower you to craft more compelling arguments.
Why You Should Replace “This Shows” in Essays
Using repetitive language can dull the impact of your arguments. “This shows”, though clear, lacks the sophistication needed for academic writing. Diversifying your vocabulary:
- Enhances clarity and depth.
- Shows a nuanced understanding of the topic.
- Keeps the reader engaged.
- Improves your essay’s overall structure and tone.
Replacing common phrases like “this shows” demonstrates advanced writing skills and helps your content stand out in academic settings.
30 Other Words for “This Shows” in an Essay
Here’s a list of alternatives to enrich your writing. You can choose these words or phrases depending on the context and tone of your essay:
| Alternative | Example Use |
|---|---|
| Demonstrates | This evidence demonstrates the author’s intention. |
| Indicates | The data indicates a clear correlation. |
| Suggests | This finding suggests a broader implication. |
| Implies | The tone implies a sense of urgency. |
| Illustrates | This example illustrates the main argument. |
| Highlights | The passage highlights the importance of unity. |
| Underscores | The conclusion underscores the necessity of reform. |
| Conveys | The imagery conveys a sense of despair. |
| Reflects | The outcome reflects the team’s hard work. |
| Reveals | This moment reveals the character’s true motives. |
| Exemplifies | The anecdote exemplifies cultural differences. |
| Affirms | The results affirm the hypothesis. |
| Clarifies | The study clarifies the link between diet and health. |
| Validates | This argument validates the author’s perspective. |
| Proves | The evidence proves the feasibility of the approach. |
| Expresses | The dialogue expresses the protagonist’s feelings. |
| Confirms | The research confirms previous findings. |
| Highlights | This data highlights key trends in the market. |
| Establishes | This example establishes the foundation for the theory. |
| Signifies | The outcome signifies a turning point. |
| Points to | This detail points to underlying societal issues. |
| Supports | The analysis supports the initial claim. |
| Suggests | The discovery suggests a potential breakthrough. |
| Portrays | The setting portrays a bleak environment. |
| Evidences | The findings evidence the need for further study. |
| Represents | This chart represents a significant trend. |
| Depicts | The artwork depicts a struggle for freedom. |
| Manifests | The reaction manifests deep frustration. |
| Validates | This observation validates the original theory. |
| Proclaims | The result proclaims success in innovation. |
How to Choose the Right Alternative
The choice of words depends on the context of your essay and the tone you aim to achieve. Below are guidelines to use these alternatives effectively:
1. Understand the Context
- Use “demonstrates” or “proves” in analytical essays when presenting strong evidence.
- Use “suggests” or “implies” when discussing subtle hints or indirect meanings.
- Opt for “illustrates” or “exemplifies” when providing examples.
2. Align with Tone
- Academic essays often require formal and precise language. Words like “affirms”, “validates”, and “underscores” work well here.
- Creative or reflective essays can use more expressive terms such as “portrays”, “depicts”, and “conveys”.
3. Avoid Overuse
Even when using synonyms, avoid overloading your essay with a single replacement. Rotate between alternatives to maintain variety.
Practical Examples of Alternatives in Sentences
Before
- This shows the author’s intent to critique societal norms.
- The data shows a strong correlation between variables.
After
- This illustrates the author’s intent to critique societal norms.
- The data indicates a strong correlation between variables.
By using these alternatives, your writing gains depth and avoids repetitive phrasing.
Benefits of Using Alternatives
1. Improved Readability
Using a variety of words keeps your audience engaged and prevents monotony.
2. Enhanced Vocabulary
Alternating between phrases like “demonstrates”, “reflects”, and “clarifies” showcases your command of the language.
3. Clearer Communication
Each alternative carries a unique nuance, helping you express ideas with precision.
Tips to Incorporate Alternatives Naturally
1. Read Aloud
Hearing your essay aloud can help you spot repetitive phrases and find suitable replacements.
2. Draft First, Edit Later
When drafting, use whatever phrase comes naturally. Replace overused terms during revision.
3. Use a Thesaurus Cautiously
While a thesaurus is helpful, ensure that the chosen synonym fits your sentence contextually.
4. Practice Writing
Consistent practice in essays will help you internalize these alternatives.
FAQs About 30 Other Words for “This Shows” in an Essay
1. Why should I replace “This shows” in an essay?
Replacing repetitive phrases like “this shows” improves the quality, readability, and engagement of your essay.
2. Can I use these alternatives in all types of essays?
Yes, but ensure the alternative fits the tone and context of your essay.
3. What’s the most formal alternative to “This shows”?
Terms like “demonstrates”, “validates”, or “affirms” are suitable for formal academic writing.
4. Can I use more than one alternative in the same essay?
Absolutely! Using multiple alternatives adds variety and avoids redundancy.
5. How do I know which alternative to use?
Consider the context, tone, and specific nuance you want to convey when choosing a replacement.
Conclusion
Replacing overused phrases like “this shows” is a simple yet impactful way to improve your essay’s quality. By incorporating these 30 other words for “this shows” in an essay, you can express ideas more clearly and engage your audience more effectively.
Enhance your writing by using alternatives like “demonstrates”, “implies”, and “illustrates”. Diversify your vocabulary, and your essays will stand out as polished, professional, and compelling.