“Research shows” is a widely used phrase that adds authority and credibility to a statement, especially when trying to highlight evidence, data, or conclusions drawn from scholarly studies, scientific findings, or reliable reports. It’s often used in academic writing, professional reports, and persuasive arguments to support a point and demonstrate that it’s backed by real data.
While it’s certainly effective, constantly repeating “research shows” can make your writing sound monotonous or overly formulaic. The good news is, there are plenty of alternative expressions that carry the same meaning—some more formal, some more conversational—but all useful depending on the audience and context. This article explores 24 powerful alternatives that can help you vary your writing while still delivering the message that your ideas are backed by trustworthy sources.
Other Ways to Say “Research Shows”
1. Studies indicate
Example: “Studies indicate that regular physical activity improves mental health.”
Meaning: This phrase communicates that findings from one or more studies suggest or support a particular idea or conclusion.
Usage: Ideal for formal, academic, or evidence-based contexts where you want to present information in a neutral and professional tone.
2. Evidence suggests
Example: “Evidence suggests that early childhood education can have long-term benefits.”
Meaning: This emphasizes that the idea being presented is grounded in observable, documented facts rather than mere opinion.
Usage: Common in academic writing, healthcare, psychology, and science-related content to introduce conclusions drawn from data.
3. Data reveals
Example: “Data reveals a significant decline in carbon emissions over the last decade.”
Meaning: Focuses on the information derived directly from collected data sets or statistics.
Usage: Frequently used in scientific, statistical, and analytical discussions, particularly when numbers or quantitative measures are involved.
4. Research indicates
Example: “Research indicates a link between screen time and sleep disturbances.”
Meaning: A direct synonym of “research shows,” this phrase presents a conclusion based on multiple sources or a single credible study.
Usage: Suitable for most formal and informal contexts, including journalistic pieces and business documents.
5. Findings demonstrate
Example: “The findings demonstrate a strong correlation between diet and mood.”
Meaning: Emphasizes the clear and visible outcome of a research process or experiment.
Usage: Appropriate for technical or scientific reports where precise outcomes are being explained.
6. Scholars argue
Example: “Many scholars argue that climate policy needs to be more aggressive.”
Meaning: This conveys that respected academics support a viewpoint based on extensive research and theoretical backing.
Usage: Common in critical essays or debates where expert opinions are part of the analysis.
7. Literature supports
Example: “The existing literature supports the theory of social learning in early development.”
Meaning: Implies that previous academic publications collectively reinforce a particular hypothesis or argument.
Usage: Perfect for formal research papers and literature reviews.
8. Analysis reveals
Example: “The analysis reveals significant gaps in gender equality across industries.”
Meaning: Indicates that a detailed, systematic breakdown of data or trends led to a specific discovery or insight.
Usage: Often used in research-intensive contexts like case studies or white papers.
9. Empirical evidence shows
Example: “Empirical evidence shows a measurable improvement in student performance after curriculum changes.”
Meaning: Refers to results derived from actual experience, experiments, or observation, rather than theory alone.
Usage: A strong option in academic writing or scientific communication where real-world testing is involved.
10. Reports confirm
Example: “Multiple government reports confirm that infrastructure spending boosts employment rates.”
Meaning: Suggests that official or documented sources back the claim with reliable confirmation.
Usage: Appropriate in journalism, public policy papers, and official statements.
11. Case studies show
Example: “Case studies show that flexible working hours increase employee satisfaction.”
Meaning: Draws attention to findings from in-depth investigations of specific individuals, groups, or situations.
Usage: Common in business, psychology, education, and healthcare-related content.
12. Experts conclude
Example: “Experts conclude that vaccination remains the most effective method of disease prevention.”
Meaning: Emphasizes that the opinion is not personal but based on the reasoned judgments of qualified professionals.
Usage: Well-suited to formal publications, medical articles, or when referring to authoritative consensus.
13. Scientific studies confirm
Example: “Scientific studies confirm that smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.”
Meaning: Indicates that multiple scientific investigations have arrived at the same verified conclusion.
Usage: Frequently used in medical, environmental, and health sciences for added credibility and rigor.
14. Academic sources report
Example: “Academic sources report a rise in social anxiety among teenagers post-pandemic.”
Meaning: Implies that peer-reviewed journals, scholarly articles, or academic research institutions have documented a specific trend or finding.
Usage: Ideal for formal essays, university writing, or any content referencing scholarly work.
15. Journals highlight
Example: “Recent journals highlight the growing concerns about antibiotic resistance.”
Meaning: Communicates that notable academic or scientific journals are drawing attention to a pressing issue.
Usage: Effective in academic or medical writing where staying updated with current research is important.
16. Statistics prove
Example: “Statistics prove that road safety improves when speed limits are strictly enforced.”
Meaning: Uses numerical data to demonstrate a reliable, often undeniable, conclusion.
Usage: Strong for arguments in public policy, law, economics, and behavioral studies.
17. Observations show
Example: “Repeated observations show a pattern of seasonal migration among these birds.”
Meaning: Refers to insights gained through watching or monitoring behaviors or events over time.
Usage: Often used in scientific, sociological, or ethnographic contexts.
18. Peer-reviewed studies find
Example: “Peer-reviewed studies find that mindfulness reduces stress and anxiety levels.”
Meaning: Highlights findings that have passed rigorous review by other experts before publication.
Usage: Appropriate in highly formal or scientific contexts where credibility is key.
19. Fieldwork demonstrates
Example: “Fieldwork demonstrates the impact of deforestation on indigenous communities.”
Meaning: Implies that conclusions were drawn directly from firsthand experience or research conducted in the real world.
Usage: Common in anthropology, geography, ecology, and sociology.
20. Clinical trials reveal
Example: “Clinical trials reveal the new drug significantly reduces symptoms in patients.”
Meaning: Points to tested and documented medical results from structured experiments with participants.
Usage: Medical, pharmaceutical, and healthcare-related writing and research.
21. Surveys suggest
Example: “Surveys suggest that consumers prefer eco-friendly packaging.”
Meaning: Indicates that the statement is based on gathered public or targeted group responses.
Usage: Useful in marketing, social science research, or policy reports.
22. The data points to
Example: “The data points to a clear decline in customer retention.”
Meaning: Conveys that conclusions are being drawn from measurable indicators and numerical trends.
Usage: Often used in analytics, finance, and business communications.
23. Reports from institutions show
Example: “Reports from institutions show improvements in literacy rates.”
Meaning: Uses findings published by reputable organizations to back a claim.
Usage: Suitable for education, development studies, and nonprofit work.
24. Recent findings illustrate
Example: “Recent findings illustrate the effectiveness of project-based learning.”
Meaning: Offers a clear depiction of results based on newly conducted or published research.
Usage: Great for education, science, and research-based discussions.
When to Use Different “Research Shows” Alternatives
In Academic Writing
In academic papers, formal studies, or thesis work, choose precise and credible alternatives like “peer-reviewed studies find,” “empirical evidence shows,” or “literature supports.” These add academic weight and clearly show your sources are grounded in reliable scholarship.
In Business and Professional Reports
For corporate presentations, policy briefs, or client reports, words like “data reveals,” “statistics prove,” and “reports confirm” work well because they demonstrate factual grounding while maintaining professional tone.
In Blog Posts or Informal Writing
If you’re creating blog content or writing casually for general audiences, consider more conversational options like “experts conclude,” “surveys suggest,” or “studies indicate” to keep the tone accessible without sacrificing credibility.
Conclusion
“Research shows” is a helpful phrase—but if you rely on it too often, your writing may start to feel repetitive or even stale. Thankfully, there are dozens of ways to say the same thing with more style, specificity, and flexibility. Whether you’re writing a research paper, a policy proposal, or a blog post, having a rich variety of expressions at your disposal will not only elevate your communication but also help you better connect with your audience.
If you’re interested in building an even stronger academic or professional vocabulary, don’t hesitate to explore language resources like the APA style guide, academic thesauri, and scientific writing manuals to deepen your understanding and improve your writing finesse.
FAQs
What does “research shows” mean?
It’s a phrase used to indicate that a statement is supported by research, evidence, or findings from credible sources like studies or academic reports.
Is “research shows” formal?
Yes, it’s generally used in formal or semi-formal contexts, but its tone can feel repetitive if overused.
Can I use these alternatives in academic writing?
Absolutely. Many alternatives like “empirical evidence shows,” “peer-reviewed studies find,” or “literature supports” are ideal for scholarly and formal writing.
Which phrases are best for blogs or informal posts?
Phrases like “experts conclude,” “surveys suggest,” and “case studies show” are friendly yet credible options for less formal content.
Why should I avoid repeating ‘research shows’?
Variety keeps your writing engaging, and using more specific alternatives can better match the tone, context, and evidence behind your claims.
