Beyond “This Shows”: Expanding Your Expressive English Vocabulary
The phrase “this shows” is a common way to introduce evidence or demonstrate a point. However, relying on this phrase repeatedly can make your writing and speech sound monotonous and lack nuance.
Mastering alternative expressions not only enhances clarity but also adds sophistication and precision to your communication. This article explores a wide range of alternatives to “this shows,” providing examples, usage rules, and practice exercises to help you diversify your English vocabulary and express yourself more effectively.
This guide is ideal for students, professionals, and anyone looking to improve their command of the English language.
By the end of this article, you will have a robust toolkit of phrases to replace “this shows,” allowing you to convey your ideas with greater impact and finesse. You will learn how to choose the most appropriate alternative based on context, tone, and the specific message you want to communicate.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition and Context
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of Alternatives
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition and Context
The phrase “this shows” is typically used to introduce evidence, results, or implications derived from a preceding statement or observation. It functions as a transitional phrase, connecting a premise or observation to a conclusion or interpretation.
While grammatically correct, its frequent use can make writing or speech sound repetitive and less engaging. Understanding the nuances of alternative expressions allows for more precise and sophisticated communication.
The key is to choose a replacement that accurately reflects the specific relationship between the preceding information and the conclusion you are drawing. For instance, “this demonstrates” emphasizes proof, while “this implies” suggests a more subtle connection.
Recognizing these subtle differences is crucial for effective communication. The context of the sentence or paragraph often dictates the best alternative to use, taking into account the tone you are trying to convey.
Structural Breakdown
The basic structure in which “this shows” is used typically follows this pattern: [Premise/Observation] + “this shows” + [Conclusion/Interpretation]. The alternatives we will explore maintain this basic structure but replace “this shows” with a more nuanced and varied expression.
These alternatives can function as conjunctions, adverbs, or even entire clauses, depending on the specific phrase used.
For example:
- Original: The data indicates a significant increase in sales; this shows that the new marketing strategy is effective.
- Alternative 1: The data indicates a significant increase in sales; this demonstrates that the new marketing strategy is effective.
- Alternative 2: The data indicates a significant increase in sales; this suggests that the new marketing strategy is effective.
- Alternative 3: The data indicates a significant increase in sales; consequently, the new marketing strategy is effective.
Each alternative maintains the logical flow of the sentence but adds a slightly different emphasis to the relationship between the data and the conclusion.
Types and Categories of Alternatives
Alternatives to “this shows” can be categorized based on the specific type of relationship they convey:
Demonstrating Evidence
These phrases emphasize that the preceding information provides strong proof or evidence for the conclusion.
Indicating Results
These phrases highlight the consequence or outcome of the preceding information.
Suggesting Implications
These phrases imply a connection or inference that can be drawn from the preceding information, without necessarily providing definitive proof.
Highlighting Significance
These phrases underscore the importance or relevance of the preceding information.
Drawing Conclusions
These phrases explicitly state that a conclusion is being reached based on the preceding information.
Examples
The following section provides extensive examples of alternatives to “this shows,” organized by category. Each example illustrates how the alternative phrase can be used in context to convey a specific meaning.
Demonstrating Evidence Examples
This section focuses on phrases that emphasize the evidentiary nature of the preceding information. These alternatives are useful when you want to show that a statement provides strong support for a conclusion.
The table below contains examples of phrases that emphasize strong proof or evidence:
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| This demonstrates | The experiment yielded consistent results; this demonstrates the reliability of the methodology. |
| This proves | The suspect’s DNA was found at the scene; this proves his involvement in the crime. |
| This confirms | Independent studies have replicated the findings; this confirms the initial hypothesis. |
| This establishes | The witness testimony aligns with the physical evidence; this establishes a clear timeline of events. |
| This substantiates | The company’s financial records support the claims of increased revenue; this substantiates their growth projections. |
| This validates | Peer review has affirmed the accuracy of the research; this validates the scientific findings. |
| This verifies | Cross-referencing the data with multiple sources verifies the accuracy of the information. |
| This corroborates | Multiple eyewitness accounts corroborate the victim’s version of the story. |
| This authenticates | The signature on the document authenticates its legitimacy. |
| This solidifies | The repeated success of the project solidifies the team’s reputation. |
| This reinforces | Positive feedback from customers reinforces the effectiveness of the customer service training. |
| This underscores | The high demand for the product underscores its popularity and market value. |
| This highlights | The increasing number of applications highlights the program’s appeal. |
| This emphasizes | The speaker’s passionate delivery emphasizes the urgency of the issue. |
| This illustrates | The graph clearly illustrates the correlation between education and income. |
| This exemplifies | The company’s commitment to sustainability exemplifies its ethical values. |
| This embodies | The athlete’s dedication to training embodies the spirit of perseverance. |
| This manifests | The symptoms of the disease manifest as fatigue and fever. |
| This demonstrates clearly | The data demonstrates clearly that there is a correlation between exercise and mental health. |
| This provides evidence that | The new study provides evidence that early intervention can significantly improve outcomes. |
| This offers proof that | The historical documents offer proof that the land was originally inhabited by indigenous people. |
| This serves as confirmation that | The positive test results serve as confirmation that the treatment is working. |
| This acts as verification that | The audit acts as verification that the company’s finances are in order. |
| This lends credence to the idea that | The expert’s opinion lends credence to the idea that the project is feasible. |
| This lends support to the notion that | The new research lends support to the notion that climate change is accelerating. |
Indicating Results Examples
This section provides alternatives that emphasize the consequence or outcome of the preceding information. These phrases are suitable when you want to show a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
The table below contains examples of phrases that emphasize a direct cause-and-effect relationship:
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| This results in | The increased demand for electricity results in higher energy prices. |
| This leads to | Lack of sleep often leads to decreased productivity. |
| This causes | Pollution causes damage to the environment. |
| This produces | The factory produces a large quantity of goods daily. |
| This generates | The new marketing campaign generates significant interest in the product. |
| This creates | The new policy creates opportunities for innovation. |
| This triggers | The alarm triggers an immediate response from the security team. |
| This prompts | The article prompts a debate about the ethics of artificial intelligence. |
| This incites | The inflammatory speech incites violence among the crowd. |
| This spawns | The success of the first product spawns a series of sequels. |
| Consequently | The company invested heavily in research and development; consequently, they released several innovative products. |
| Therefore | The evidence is compelling; therefore, we must conclude that he is guilty. |
| Thus | The experiment was carefully controlled; thus, the results are reliable. |
| Hence | The demand for the product is high; hence, the price has increased. |
| Accordingly | The plan was approved; accordingly, we can proceed with the implementation. |
| As a result | The storm caused widespread damage; as a result, many people were displaced. |
| In consequence | He failed to follow the safety procedures; in consequence, he was injured. |
| For this reason | The project is behind schedule; for this reason, we need to allocate more resources. |
| Because of this | The weather was unpredictable; because of this, the outdoor event was canceled. |
| This has the effect of | The new regulations have the effect of reducing pollution. |
| It follows that | If all men are mortal and Socrates is a man, it follows that Socrates is mortal. |
| This gives rise to | The new economic policies give rise to increased investment. |
| This brings about | The peace negotiations bring about an end to the conflict. |
| This engenders | The teacher’s encouragement engenders confidence in her students. |
| This precipitates | The economic crisis precipitates widespread unemployment. |
Suggesting Implications Examples
This section provides alternatives that imply a connection or inference, without necessarily providing definitive proof. These phrases are useful when you want to suggest a possible interpretation or consequence.
The table below contains examples of phrases that suggest a possible interpretation or consequence:
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| This implies | The decrease in unemployment implies a strengthening economy. |
| This suggests | The data suggests a correlation between diet and health. |
| This indicates | The survey indicates a growing interest in renewable energy. |
| This hints at | The evidence hints at a deeper conspiracy. |
| This alludes to | The author’s subtle references allude to a hidden meaning. |
| This signifies | The red flag signifies danger. |
| This points to | The symptoms point to a possible infection. |
| This intimates | Her silence intimates her disapproval. |
| This presages | The early signs of spring presage the arrival of warmer weather. |
| This foreshadows | The dark clouds foreshadow an impending storm. |
| This seems to indicate | The lack of response seems to indicate a lack of interest. |
| This leads one to believe that | The evidence leads one to believe that he is innocent. |
| This gives the impression that | His nervous behavior gives the impression that he is hiding something. |
| This creates the sense that | The somber music creates the sense that something bad is about to happen. |
| This would seem to suggest | The increasing number of complaints would seem to suggest a problem with the product. |
| This could be interpreted as | His refusal to answer could be interpreted as an admission of guilt. |
| This might indicate | The sudden change in his behavior might indicate that he is under stress. |
| This could mean that | The delayed flight could mean that we will miss our connecting flight. |
| One could infer from this that | One could infer from this that the company is facing financial difficulties. |
| It can be deduced from this that | It can be deduced from this that the project is not going according to plan. |
| The implication here is that | The implication here is that the government is not being transparent. |
| This suggests the possibility that | This suggests the possibility that there are other factors at play. |
| This raises the question of whether | This raises the question of whether the benefits outweigh the risks. |
Highlighting Significance Examples
This section provides alternatives that underscore the importance or relevance of the preceding information. These phrases are useful when you want to emphasize the significance of a particular observation or finding.
The table below contains examples of phrases that emphasize the significance or relevance:
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| This is significant because | The discovery of the new species is significant because it sheds light on the region’s biodiversity. |
| This is important because | Understanding the historical context is important because it helps us understand the present. |
| This matters because | The issue of climate change matters because it affects everyone on the planet. |
| This is noteworthy because | The athlete’s achievement is noteworthy because she overcame significant obstacles. |
| This is relevant because | The data is relevant because it directly addresses the research question. |
| This is crucial because | Adhering to safety protocols is crucial because it prevents accidents. |
| This is vital because | Maintaining a healthy diet is vital because it supports overall well-being. |
| This is essential because | Effective communication is essential because it fosters collaboration. |
| This is critical because | Critical thinking is critical because it enables informed decision-making. |
| This is paramount because | Patient safety is paramount because it is our primary responsibility. |
| This underscores the importance of | This underscores the importance of investing in education. |
| This highlights the need for | This highlights the need for more research in this area. |
| This emphasizes the significance of | This emphasizes the significance of early intervention. |
| This draws attention to | This draws attention to the growing problem of income inequality. |
| This sheds light on | This sheds light on the complex dynamics of the ecosystem. |
| This illustrates the gravity of | This illustrates the gravity of the situation. |
| This exemplifies the magnitude of | This exemplifies the magnitude of the challenge. |
| This demonstrates the extent of | This demonstrates the extent of the damage caused by the hurricane. |
Drawing Conclusions Examples
This section provides alternatives that explicitly state that a conclusion is being reached based on the preceding information. These phrases are useful when you want to make a clear and definitive statement.
The table below contains examples of phrases that explicitly draw a conclusion:
| Alternative Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Therefore, we can conclude that | The evidence is overwhelming; therefore, we can conclude that he is guilty. |
| Thus, it can be inferred that | The data is consistent; thus, it can be inferred that the hypothesis is correct. |
| Hence, we can deduce that | The prerequisites are met; hence, we can deduce that the project can proceed. |
| Consequently, it follows that | The assumptions are valid; consequently, it follows that the model is accurate. |
| As a result, it is clear that | The experiment was successful; as a result, it is clear that the treatment is effective. |
| In conclusion | In conclusion, the study provides valuable insights into the phenomenon. |
| To summarize | To summarize, the key findings support the initial hypothesis. |
| In summary | In summary, the project was a success due to the team’s hard work and dedication. |
| To conclude | To conclude, further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects. |
| Ultimately | Ultimately, the decision rests with the board of directors. |
| In the final analysis | In the final analysis, the benefits outweigh the costs. |
| Based on this evidence, we can say that | Based on this evidence, we can say that the policy has been effective. |
| From this, it is reasonable to assume that | From this, it is reasonable to assume that the trend will continue. |
| The logical conclusion is that | The logical conclusion is that the company needs to adapt to the changing market. |
| The only possible explanation is that | The only possible explanation is that there was a mistake in the data. |
| This leads us to the conclusion that | This leads us to the conclusion that the project is not feasible. |
| This allows us to conclude that | This allows us to conclude that the treatment is safe and effective. |
| Therefore, it is safe to say that | Therefore, it is safe to say that the company is in a strong financial position. |
Usage Rules
While the alternatives to “this shows” offer a richer vocabulary, it’s crucial to use them correctly. Here are some key usage rules to keep in mind:
- Context is King: Choose the alternative that best fits the context and the specific relationship you want to convey.
- Tone Matters: Be mindful of the tone you are trying to create. Some phrases are more formal than others.
- Avoid Redundancy: Ensure that the alternative phrase doesn’t repeat information already stated.
- Grammatical Accuracy: Make sure the alternative phrase fits grammatically within the sentence structure.
- Clarity is Paramount: The goal is to enhance clarity, not to confuse the reader. Choose the simplest and most direct alternative whenever possible.
For example, using “this proves” when the evidence is only suggestive would be misleading. Similarly, using overly formal language in a casual conversation would sound unnatural.
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using alternatives to “this shows”:
| Mistake | Incorrect Example | Correct Example |
|---|---|---|
| Using “this proves” when the evidence is circumstantial. | The suspect was seen near the crime scene; this proves he committed the crime. | The suspect was seen near the crime scene; this suggests he may have been involved in the crime. |
| Using overly formal language in a casual setting. | I noticed you were late; consequently, I was displeased. | I noticed you were late, so I was a little annoyed. |
| Using an alternative that doesn’t fit the grammatical structure. | The data is compelling, because of this, we should invest. | The data is compelling; therefore, we should invest. |
| Redundancy. | The results clearly demonstrate; this demonstrates the effectiveness. | The results clearly demonstrate the effectiveness. |
| Misusing “imply” and “infer”. | The results infer that the drug is effective. | The results imply that the drug is effective. (We infer the effectiveness from the results) |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with the following practice exercises. Choose the best alternative to “this shows” in each sentence.
Exercise 1: Choose the best alternative from the options provided.
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| The company’s profits have increased significantly; this shows ____ the new marketing strategy is working. | a) this implies, b) this demonstrates, c) this hints at | b) this demonstrates |
| The weather forecast predicts heavy rain; this shows ____ we should cancel the picnic. | a) therefore, b) this suggests, c) this emphasizes | a) therefore |
| The study found a correlation between exercise and mental health; this shows ____ the importance of physical activity. | a) this proves, b) this underscores, c) this results in | b) this underscores |
| The suspect refused to answer questions; this shows ____ he may be hiding something. | a) this confirms, b) this suggests, c) this establishes | b) this suggests |
| The experiment yielded consistent results; this shows ____ the reliability of the method. | a) this validates, b) this leads to, c) this signifies | a) this validates |
| The demand for the product is high; this shows ____ the price has increased. | a) hence, b) this implies, c) this emphasizes | a) hence |
| The witness testimony aligns with the evidence; this shows ____ a clear timeline of events. | a) this creates, b) this establishes, c) this hints at | b) this establishes |
| The company invested in research; this shows ____ they released innovative products. | a) this establishes, b) consequently, c) this hints at | b) consequently |
| The symptoms point to infection; this shows ____ a possible infection. | a) this proves, b) this generates, c) this points to | c) this points to |
| The red flag signifies danger; this shows ____ danger. | a) this signifies, b) this results in, c) this leads to | a) this signifies |
Exercise 2: Rewrite the following sentences using a more appropriate alternative to “this shows”.
- The data indicates a decline in sales; this shows the need for a new marketing strategy. (Answer: The data indicates a decline in sales, suggesting the need for a new marketing strategy.)
- The experiment was carefully controlled; this shows the results are reliable. (Answer: The experiment was carefully controlled; thus, the results are reliable.)
- The company is committed to sustainability; this shows its ethical values. (Answer: The company’s commitment to sustainability exemplifies its ethical values.)
- The athlete trained hard; this shows dedication. (Answer: The athlete’s dedication to training embodies the spirit of perseverance.)
- He failed to follow procedure; this shows he was injured. (Answer: He failed to follow the safety procedures; in consequence, he was injured.)
- The increasing applications show the program is popular. (Answer: The increasing number of applications highlights the program’s appeal.)
- Customer feedback was positive; this shows the service training was effective. (Answer: Positive feedback from customers reinforces the effectiveness of the customer service training.)
- The suspect’s DNA was at the scene; this shows his involvement. (Answer: The suspect’s DNA was found at the scene; this proves his involvement in the crime.)
- Independent studies replicated the findings; this shows the hypothesis is correct. (Answer: Independent studies have replicated the findings; this confirms the initial hypothesis.)
- The witness account matches the facts; this shows a timeline of events. (Answer: The witness testimony aligns with the physical evidence; this establishes a clear timeline of events.)
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, here are some more complex aspects to consider:
- Subtleties of Implication: Explore the nuances of phrases like “this hints at” versus “this suggests” and how they can subtly shift the meaning of a sentence.
- Formal vs. Informal Language: Analyze how the choice of alternative phrases can affect the overall tone and formality of your writing.
- Cross-Cultural Considerations: Be aware that certain phrases may have different connotations or levels of formality in different cultures.
- Rhetorical Effect: Consider how different alternatives can be used to create a specific rhetorical effect, such as persuasion or emphasis.
- Combining Alternatives: Experiment with combining different alternatives to create more complex and nuanced expressions.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about using alternatives to “this shows”:
- Is “this shows” grammatically incorrect?
No, “this shows” is grammatically correct. However, it can sound repetitive and lacks nuance compared to alternative phrases.
- How do I choose the best alternative to “this shows”?
Consider the context, the specific relationship you want to convey, and the tone you are trying to create. Choose the alternative that best fits all these factors.
- Are some alternatives more formal than others?
Yes, some alternatives, such as “consequently” or “therefore,” are more formal than others, such as “so” or “because of this.”
- Can I use multiple alternatives in the same piece of writing?
Yes, in fact, you should! Using a variety of alternatives will make your writing more engaging and less repetitive.
- What’s the difference between “imply” and “infer”?
“Imply” means to suggest something indirectly, while “infer” means to draw a conclusion based on evidence. The speaker/writer *implies*, and the listener/reader *infers*.
- How can I improve my vocabulary of alternative phrases?
Read widely, pay attention to how different authors use language, and practice using new phrases in your own writing and speech.
- Is it ever okay to use “this shows”?
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to use “this shows” occasionally. The key is to avoid overusing it and to be aware of the more nuanced alternatives available. Using it sparingly can actually make it stand out more effectively when you want to emphasize a point simply and directly.
- What if I’m unsure which alternative is best?
When in doubt, choose the simplest and most direct alternative that accurately reflects the relationship between the ideas you are connecting. Clarity should always be your primary goal.
Conclusion
Mastering alternatives to “this shows” is an essential step in developing more sophisticated and effective communication skills. By understanding the nuances of different phrases and practicing their usage, you can enhance the clarity, precision, and impact of your writing and speech.
Remember to consider the context, tone, and specific relationship you want to convey when choosing an alternative. With practice, you’ll be able to express yourself with greater confidence and fluency.
Continue to expand your vocabulary, pay attention to how others use language, and practice using new phrases in your own communication. The more you practice, the more natural and intuitive these alternatives will become.
Embrace the challenge of diversifying your language, and you’ll see a significant improvement in your ability to communicate effectively and persuasively.
