25 Other Words for “This Shows” in an Essay: Boost Your Writing
Have you ever felt like you’re using the same phrases over and over in your essays? It’s easy to rely on familiar words like “this shows,” but repeating them too much can make your writing sound dull. Strong essays need variety and precision to keep readers engaged.
That’s why finding different ways to express your ideas is so important. In this guide, we’ll explore other words for “this shows” in an essay to help you write more clearly, sound more professional, and keep your writing fresh and interesting.
Alternative Phrases for “This Shows”
Using analytical alternatives helps to provide deeper insights into the meaning or implications of an idea, rather than just stating a fact. Here are some useful replacements for “this shows” in an essay:
1. Suggests
“Suggests” is a great word to use when drawing conclusions based on evidence, but without making absolute claims. It implies that the information points toward a logical conclusion but does not guarantee certainty. This word is commonly used in academic discussions, scientific studies, and literary analysis, where conclusions are based on interpretation rather than direct proof.
Example: The study suggests that students who get at least eight hours of sleep perform better academically compared to those who sleep less.
2. Implies
“Implies” is used when something is not stated directly but can be inferred from the given information. It is useful when analyzing literature, historical events, or any scenario where a deeper meaning can be interpreted. This word allows for a more subtle, nuanced argument, rather than simply stating a conclusion outright.
Example: The character’s refusal to make eye contact implies that he feels guilty about his actions.
3. Indicates
“Indicates” is a stronger alternative to “this shows” because it suggests that the evidence directly points to a specific conclusion. It is often used when discussing data, statistics, or observable facts that lead to a clear outcome. Unlike “suggests,” which leaves room for interpretation, “indicates” is more definitive.
Example: The rise in global temperatures indicates the ongoing impact of climate change and human activities.
4. Demonstrates
“Demonstrates” is a strong word that conveys clear proof or evidence of something. It is often used in academic writing to show how an example supports an argument or theory. This word is particularly useful in essays where you need to prove a point using concrete examples.
Example: Her ability to stay calm under pressure demonstrates strong leadership skills and emotional intelligence.
5. Reveals
“Reveals” is an effective word when discussing hidden meanings, insights, or discoveries that are not immediately obvious. It is commonly used in literary analysis, research studies, and discussions about social issues. This word helps emphasize new information that emerges from the evidence.
Example: The report reveals a significant gap in income levels between urban and rural areas.
6. Reflects
“Reflects” is useful when discussing how a particular situation, action, or piece of work represents a broader concept or theme. It is frequently used in literature, history, and social sciences to explain how specific details connect to larger ideas.
Example: The novel reflects the struggles of working-class individuals during the Industrial Revolution.
7. Illustrates
“Illustrates” is a strong choice when using examples to clarify or explain a concept. It works well in academic writing where you need to make an idea more tangible by providing supporting evidence.
Example: The case study illustrates the importance of early childhood education in cognitive development.
8. Expresses
“Expresses” is commonly used in literary and rhetorical analysis when discussing how an author, speaker, or character conveys thoughts, emotions, or ideas. It focuses on intentional communication rather than unintended implications.
Example: The poet expresses a deep sense of nostalgia through the use of vivid imagery and melancholic tone.
9. Conveys
“Conveys” is similar to “expresses” but is broader in scope. It refers to the way meaning is communicated through words, actions, or artistic elements. It is often used in literature, media analysis, and discussions of communication.
Example: The author conveys the struggles of immigrants through the protagonist’s experiences with cultural displacement and language barriers.
10. Highlights
“Highlights” is a useful alternative when you want to emphasize a key point. It suggests that the evidence or argument draws attention to an important issue, making it stand out. This word works well in academic writing, especially when discussing research findings or critical themes.
Example: The research highlights the dangers of excessive screen time for young children and its negative effects on cognitive development.
11. Clarifies
“Clarifies” is used when discussing how an argument, statement, or example helps to make something easier to understand. It is useful in explanatory writing and academic discussions where complex ideas need to be broken down for clarity.
Example: The professor clarifies the difference between correlation and causation to prevent students from making incorrect assumptions in their research papers.
12. Establishes
“Establishes” is a strong word to use when presenting evidence that sets a foundation for further arguments. It suggests that something has been firmly proven or supported by research, making it a good choice for academic writing.
Example: The experiment establishes a direct link between regular physical activity and improved mental health in adolescents.
13. Denotes
“Denotes” is a precise term that means something explicitly signifies or represents a specific idea, fact, or object. It is often used in technical, scientific, and literary contexts when discussing exact meanings rather than interpretations.
Example: In the novel, the recurring image of a broken mirror denotes the protagonist’s fractured identity.
14. Exemplifies
“Exemplifies” is useful when you want to describe something as a perfect or typical example of a particular concept. It is frequently used in academic and research writing when discussing case studies, historical events, or trends.
Example: The company’s commitment to using renewable energy exemplifies its dedication to sustainability.
15. Represents
“Represents” is a broad and flexible word that means something stands for or is a symbol of a larger concept. It is often used in literature, history, and political analysis to describe how specific elements reflect bigger ideas.
Example: The protagonist represents the struggle of the working class against oppression.
16. Signifies
“Signifies” is a more formal alternative to “shows,” often used when discussing the importance or meaning of something in an analytical context. It suggests that an event, phrase, or symbol has a particular significance.
Example: The shift in the novel’s tone signifies the protagonist’s emotional transformation.
17. Exposes
“Exposes” is useful when discussing how something reveals hidden, unethical, or problematic aspects of a situation. It is often used in journalistic, social, and political writing when addressing injustices or underlying issues.
Example: The documentary exposes the deep corruption within the political system.
18. Typifies
“Typifies” is similar to “exemplifies” but is used when something is a standard or characteristic representation of a broader trend, group, or idea.
Example: The building’s minimalist architecture typifies the modernist design movement.
19. Corroborates
“Corroborates” is a strong academic term used when one piece of evidence supports or strengthens another. It is commonly found in research-based writing, where different sources back up a claim.
Example: The latest study corroborates earlier findings that a plant-based diet reduces heart disease risk.
20. Validates
“Validates” means to confirm or prove the accuracy of a statement, theory, or belief. It is often used in scientific, legal, and philosophical discussions where arguments require confirmation from evidence.
Example: The DNA test validates the suspect’s alibi, proving he was not at the crime scene.
21. Reinforces
“Reinforces” is used when discussing how an idea, argument, or belief is made stronger by additional evidence or support. It is often seen in persuasive writing, research papers, and academic discussions.
Example: The new policy reinforces the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
22. Affirms
“Affirms” means to confirm, assert, or declare something as true or valid. It is often used in philosophical, ethical, and legal discussions.
Example: The court’s decision affirms the right to free speech in the digital age.
23. Depicts
“Depicts” is commonly used in literature, film, and art analysis to describe how something is visually or narratively presented. It often refers to how characters, themes, or historical events are shown.
Example: The painting depicts the hardships of rural farmers during the Great Depression.
24. Symbolizes
“Symbolizes” is used in literary, artistic, and historical analysis to discuss how an object, person, or event represents a deeper meaning or abstract idea.
Example: The white dove symbolizes peace and hope in many cultures.
25. Embodies
“Embodies” is a strong word that means a person, object, or idea fully represents a particular quality or concept. It is often used in discussions about leadership, cultural values, and abstract ideas.
Example: Nelson Mandela embodies the principles of perseverance, justice, and reconciliation.
