23 Other Ways to Say “This Shows”
“This shows” is a commonly used phrase that helps highlight a conclusion, insight, or realization based on preceding information or evidence. For example, when someone says, “This shows how important daily practice is,” they are emphasizing the lesson or takeaway that has become evident. While this phrase is effective, it can become repetitive in writing or speech, especially in academic, analytical, or professional contexts.
That’s why expanding your vocabulary with different expressions that communicate the same meaning—but with varying tones and degrees of emphasis—can enhance clarity and style. This article provides a rich list of alternatives to “this shows,” each explained with a definition, example sentence, and notes on when it’s best to use them.
Other Ways to Say “This Shows”
1. This demonstrates
Example: “The experiment’s results were consistent, and this demonstrates the reliability of the method.”
Meaning: Suggests proof or illustration through concrete results or behavior.
Usage: Suitable for professional, academic, and instructional contexts where empirical support is needed.
2. This indicates
Example: “This indicates a clear shift in consumer behavior over the last decade.”
Meaning: Implies that something suggests or points toward a conclusion.
Usage: Frequently used in reports, studies, and formal discussions involving data or analysis.
3. This reveals
Example: “Her reaction reveals how deeply the issue has affected her.”
Meaning: Uncovers or exposes something that may not have been previously apparent.
Usage: Effective in storytelling, character analysis, and emotional insights.
4. This highlights
Example: “This highlights the importance of regular health check-ups.”
Meaning: Brings attention to or emphasizes a particular point.
Usage: Common in persuasive writing and presentations where specific focus is needed.
5. This illustrates
Example: “The case study illustrates how small businesses can benefit from digital marketing.”
Meaning: Provides a visual or concrete example that helps clarify or explain.
Usage: Ideal for educational, explanatory, or descriptive writing.
6. This confirms
Example: “This confirms our earlier assumption about seasonal trends.”
Meaning: Verifies or proves something that was previously suggested.
Usage: Often used when analyzing patterns, evidence, or hypotheses.
7. This suggests
Example: “This suggests a possible link between diet and cognitive performance.”
Meaning: Proposes or infers a logical conclusion based on partial or indirect evidence.
Usage: Useful in cautious, scientific, or speculative writing.
8. This underscores
Example: “This underscores the need for immediate policy reform.”
Meaning: Emphasizes the importance or urgency of a point.
Usage: Strong choice in persuasive or formal writing aimed at impact.
9. This reflects
Example: “This reflects a broader trend in societal attitudes.”
Meaning: Shows or mirrors a larger truth or characteristic.
Usage: Effective in socio-political or psychological commentary.
10. This exemplifies
Example: “Her dedication exemplifies true leadership.”
Meaning: Serves as a typical or outstanding example of a quality or idea.
Usage: Ideal for showcasing values, behaviors, or principles.
11. This exposes
Example: “The investigation exposes systemic issues within the organization.”
Meaning: Brings hidden or concealed information to light.
Usage: Common in journalism, reporting, and whistleblower contexts.
12. This conveys
Example: “The artwork conveys a sense of isolation and despair.”
Meaning: Communicates an emotion, message, or idea clearly.
Usage: Widely used in creative, artistic, and expressive writing.
13. This points to
Example: “This points to a critical flaw in the system.”
Meaning: Directs attention toward a notable issue or conclusion.
Usage: Effective in argumentative essays and critiques.
14. This signals
Example: “This signals a turning point in the negotiation process.”
Meaning: Indicates a shift or impending change.
Usage: Suitable for discussing transitions or forecasts in various domains.
15. This supports
Example: “This supports the theory that exercise improves mental health.”
Meaning: Reinforces or lends credibility to a claim.
Usage: Often found in academic and scientific contexts.
16. This implies
Example: “This implies a lack of transparency in the decision-making process.”
Meaning: Suggests something indirectly or subtly.
Usage: Useful in analytical or nuanced discussions.
17. This brings to light
Example: “This brings to light the challenges faced by minority communities.”
Meaning: Makes an issue or fact more visible or known.
Usage: Common in awareness-raising or advocacy writing.
18. This reinforces
Example: “This reinforces the importance of early education.”
Meaning: Strengthens a previously made point or idea.
Usage: Useful in summaries and final statements to solidify claims.
19. This marks
Example: “This marks the beginning of a new era in space exploration.”
Meaning: Signifies an important moment or boundary.
Usage: Best used in historical, significant, or transformative contexts.
20. This captures
Example: “This captures the essence of modern minimalist design.”
Meaning: Effectively represents or embodies an idea, feeling, or style.
Usage: Ideal for reviews, critiques, and aesthetic discussions.
21. This interprets
Example: “This interprets the event as a symbolic gesture.”
Meaning: Provides a particular reading or explanation of an event or idea.
Usage: Often found in literature analysis or philosophical debate.
22. This conveys the idea
Example: “This conveys the idea that love can overcome hardship.”
Meaning: Expresses a central theme or message.
Usage: Best suited for essays, storytelling, and interpretive writing.
23. This sheds light on
Example: “This sheds light on the overlooked consequences of social media use.”
Meaning: Helps clarify, explain, or explore a complex topic.
Usage: Widely used in analytical and exploratory writing.
When to Use Different “This Shows” Alternatives
Understanding the right time and context to use each variation of “this shows” is essential for ensuring both precision and clarity in communication. Each alternative carries its own tone, formality level, and implication, so choosing the best fit depends on the audience, purpose, and setting of your message.
In Professional Settings
In business, legal, or technical environments, clarity and authority are key, which is why more formal expressions such as “this confirms,” “this demonstrates,” or “this indicates” tend to work best. These phrases convey a sense of evidence-based reasoning or logical follow-through that professionals often expect, especially in documentation, presentations, or reports where credibility must be upheld.
For example, in a data-driven business report, saying “this indicates a 12% increase in user engagement” provides a precise and analytical tone, while “this supports the proposal for increased budget allocation” adds persuasive weight when building arguments or justifying recommendations to stakeholders.
In Everyday Conversations
In casual conversations or more informal writing such as blog posts, social media, or personal letters, phrases like “this highlights,” “this shows,” “this brings to light,” or “this reveals” are often more natural and relatable. These alternatives keep your tone friendly, expressive, and accessible without sounding too academic or stiff.
For instance, if you’re telling a friend about a heartwarming story, you might say, “This really brings to light how kind people can be,” which captures the sentiment in a conversational and emotional tone that suits everyday storytelling.
In Academic or Research Contexts
When writing essays, scholarly articles, or scientific reports, choosing terminology that reflects critical thinking, analytical rigor, and objectivity is essential. Alternatives such as “this suggests,” “this implies,” “this validates,” “this exemplifies,” or “this supports” offer the tone of careful evaluation or reasoned argumentation that academic audiences expect.
In these cases, for example, a researcher might write, “This validates our initial hypothesis regarding soil acidity,” or “This implies a correlation between stress and sleep disruption.” These terms enhance credibility and maintain the academic voice by avoiding assumptions or overly assertive claims.
Conclusion
While “this shows” is a simple and effective way to communicate insight or meaning, it lacks the precision, variety, and tone that many situations demand. By exploring and adopting these 23 alternatives, you can elevate your writing and speaking to better suit your audience and purpose. Each of these expressions adds unique value, whether you’re trying to explain, argue, describe, or prove something—and the key is in selecting the one that aligns best with your message’s tone and context.
So the next time you find yourself writing “this shows,” pause and consider if another phrase might serve your purpose better. Whether you’re crafting a persuasive argument, breaking down a concept, or narrating an experience, your choice of words can make your message more compelling and impactful.
FAQs
What does “this shows” mean?
“This shows” is a phrase used to point out the result, insight, or meaning that has become clear based on previous statements, facts, or observations.
Is “this shows” formal or informal?
While “this shows” is versatile, it tends to sound more informal. Formal alternatives like “this indicates,” “this confirms,” or “this reveals” are often preferred in academic, technical, or professional writing.
Which phrase is best for persuasive writing?
For persuasive writing, phrases like “this highlights,” “this underscores,” or “this supports” can effectively emphasize key points and add weight to your argument.
What should I use in academic papers instead of “this shows”?
In academic papers, choose more specific and scholarly alternatives like “this suggests,” “this exemplifies,” “this implies,” or “this substantiates,” depending on the evidence and tone required.
Can I use multiple alternatives in the same piece?
Yes, in fact, using a variety of alternatives can make your writing more dynamic and avoid repetition. Just make sure the tone remains consistent and the expressions fit the context.
