The phrase “this shows that” is commonly used to explain what evidence, information, results, or observations demonstrate. However, repeating it can make your writing sound predictable. You can use alternatives such as this indicates that, this demonstrates that, this suggests that, this highlights that, and this reveals that to make your English more precise and professional.
Top 5 Alternatives: This indicates that, this demonstrates that, this suggests that, this highlights that, this reveals that.
Introduction
Have you ever found yourself repeating the phrase “this shows that” in essays, reports, presentations, or everyday conversations? Although it is grammatically correct and easy to understand, using the same expression repeatedly can make your writing sound less polished and predictable.
The phrase is particularly common when explaining research findings, presenting evidence, discussing observations, or connecting information to a conclusion. Learning alternatives to this shows that helps you communicate ideas with greater precision, confidence, and variety.
Whether you are an English learner, student, researcher, or professional, choosing the right expression can improve your communication. While learning phrases that help you express excitement in English is useful for emotional conversations, analytical expressions serve a different purpose: they help you explain what information proves, suggests, or reveals. Below, you will discover 30 practical alternatives with meanings, examples, tones, and usage guidance.
Formal Alternatives to “This Shows That”
Formal expressions are especially useful in academic essays, research papers, analytical discussions, and professional documents.
- This demonstrates that: Useful when evidence clearly establishes a particular point.
- This indicates that: Appropriate when information points toward a conclusion.
- This illustrates that: Helps explain an idea through a specific example or situation.
Pro Tip: In academic writing, choose “this demonstrates that” when the evidence is strong and “this indicates that” when the evidence points toward a possible conclusion.
Casual Alternatives to “This Shows That”
These expressions work well in everyday conversations, informal explanations, and friendly discussions.
- This means that: Explains the meaning or implication of something.
- This tells us that: Introduces a straightforward conclusion.
- You can see that: Directs someone’s attention toward an observable fact.
Pro Tip: Use straightforward expressions in everyday conversations. Natural communication is often more effective than unnecessarily complicated vocabulary.
Professional Alternatives to “This Shows That”
These phrases are suitable for business reports, presentations, workplace discussions, and professional communication.
- This highlights that: Draws attention to an important finding.
- This suggests that: Presents a reasonable interpretation without claiming certainty.
- This confirms that: Indicates that existing information or evidence supports a conclusion.
Pro Tip: Professional reaction phrases should match the strength of your evidence. Avoid using “confirms” when your information only suggests a possibility.
Informal Expressions
These alternatives are useful when explaining something naturally without sounding overly academic.
- This makes it clear that: Emphasizes an understandable conclusion.
- This points to the fact that: Connects available information to a particular observation.
- This goes to show that: Emphasizes what a situation or experience demonstrates.
Pro Tip: Informal expressions in English are useful for conversations, but consider replacing them with more precise language in formal reports.
The best alternative is not necessarily the most sophisticated one. It is the expression that communicates your meaning accurately.
Common Mistakes When Using “This Shows That”
Although the expression is simple, learners sometimes use it incorrectly or repeatedly. Here are five common mistakes to avoid.
1. Repeating the Same Expression
Using the same phrase in every paragraph makes writing repetitive.
Incorrect pattern: This shows that sales increased. This shows that customers are interested.
Better: This indicates that sales increased. It also suggests that customers are becoming more interested.
2. Using It Without Supporting Evidence
The expression should introduce an observation or conclusion supported by relevant information.
Weak: This shows that the company is successful.
Better: The company’s consistent revenue growth demonstrates that its business strategy is effective.
3. Confusing Evidence With Possibility
Not every observation proves something conclusively.
Incorrect: The survey suggests that every customer prefers online shopping.
Better: The survey suggests that many customers prefer online shopping.
4. Using an Informal Expression in Academic Writing
Expressions such as “this goes to show that” may sound conversational in formal academic work.
Less suitable: This goes to show that the experiment worked.
Better: These findings demonstrate that the experiment produced the expected results.
5. Using an Unnecessary Expression
Sometimes the meaning is clearer without introducing another phrase.
Wordy: The results clearly show that there was an increase in productivity.
Concise: The results reveal increased productivity.
Strong English writing is not about using more words. It is about choosing the right words for the message.
What Does “This Shows That” Mean?
“This shows that” is an expression used to explain what a particular fact, observation, piece of evidence, or situation demonstrates.
It helps writers and speakers connect information with an interpretation, explanation, or conclusion.
Example: The company’s profits increased by 25%. This shows that its new marketing strategy is working.
In this example, the increase in profits provides evidence supporting the conclusion about the marketing strategy.
Grammar Explanation
The expression follows a simple grammatical structure:
This + shows + that + subject + verb
- This: A demonstrative pronoun referring to previously mentioned information.
- Shows: The third-person singular form of the verb “show.”
- That: A conjunction introducing a subordinate clause.
Example: This shows that regular practice improves performance.
You can replace “shows” with other verbs, including demonstrates, indicates, suggests, proves, reveals, and highlights.
When to Use “This Shows That”
You can use this expression in several communication situations.
Common Contexts
- Academic writing: Explaining research findings, statistics, and observations.
- Business reports: Interpreting company performance and workplace results.
- Presentations: Explaining what charts, figures, or examples communicate.
- Everyday conversations: Describing the meaning of an event or situation.
- Analytical writing: Connecting evidence with a logical conclusion.
- Scientific discussions: Explaining experimental observations.
Spoken vs. Written English
Spoken English: This shows that we need a better plan.
Written English: These findings indicate that the current strategy requires improvement.
The spoken version is direct and conversational, while the written version sounds more analytical.
Formal vs. Informal English
Formal: The available evidence demonstrates that the approach is effective.
Informal: This makes it clear that the approach works.
Both expressions communicate a similar idea, but their tones differ.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “This Shows That”?
Yes. The expression is polite, grammatically correct, and generally acceptable in professional communication.
However, being polite does not automatically mean an expression is the most appropriate choice for every professional situation.
Politeness: Yes. It does not contain offensive or disrespectful language.
Professionalism: Yes, in suitable contexts. However, more precise alternatives may improve formal reports, research papers, and business presentations.
Business-style example:
The latest customer feedback indicates that improving response times could increase customer satisfaction.
This sounds more specific and professional than repeatedly writing “this shows that.”
Pros and Cons of Using “This Shows That”
Pros
- Simple and natural: Easy to understand and use.
- Friendly tone: Works well in everyday communication.
- Common usage: Familiar to most English speakers.
- Easy to understand: Clearly connects evidence with an explanation.
Cons
- Too informal for some work: May not be the strongest choice in highly formal academic writing.
- Overused: Repetition can make paragraphs monotonous.
- Limited emotional range: Does not communicate feelings such as excitement, admiration, or concern.
- Not suitable for every formal context: More precise expressions may better communicate the strength of the evidence.
Other Ways to Say “This Shows That” (With Examples)
Learning different expressions can make your writing more fluent, confident, and natural in different situations.
These 30 alternatives will help you select suitable language according to tone, context, audience, and the strength of your evidence.
1. This Indicates That
Meaning: Suggests that a particular fact or situation points toward a conclusion.
Explanation: Use this expression when information provides evidence of something without necessarily proving it completely.
Example Sentence: The increase in website traffic indicates that our new content strategy is attracting more visitors.
Best Use: Academic analysis
Worst Use: Unsupported claims
Tone: Formal, analytical, objective
Context Variability:
- Casual: This indicates that something is changing.
- Professional: The latest figures indicate that customer demand is increasing.
- Spoken: The results indicate that we’re making progress.
2. This Demonstrates That
Meaning: Shows something clearly through evidence, facts, or examples.
Explanation: Use it when available information provides strong support for a particular conclusion.
Example Sentence: The successful completion of the project demonstrates that effective teamwork improves productivity.
Best Use: Formal writing
Worst Use: Weak evidence
Tone: Professional, confident, authoritative
Context Variability:
- Casual: This demonstrates that the idea works.
- Professional: Our quarterly results demonstrate that the revised strategy is effective.
- Spoken: This demonstrates that we can achieve our goals together.
3. This Suggests That
Meaning: Indicates a possible explanation or conclusion.
Explanation: It is particularly useful when evidence supports an interpretation but does not establish it as certain.
Example Sentence: The survey results suggest that customers prefer faster delivery options.
Best Use: Research findings
Worst Use: Proven facts
Tone: Neutral, cautious, analytical
Context Variability:
- Casual: This suggests that something might be wrong.
- Professional: The available data suggests that demand may increase next quarter.
- Spoken: This suggests that we should reconsider our approach.
4. This Highlights That
Meaning: Draws attention to an important fact or issue.
Explanation: Use it to emphasize a particular finding that deserves attention.
Example Sentence: The customer feedback highlights that improving communication should be our priority.
Best Use: Business reports
Worst Use: Minor details
Tone: Professional, informative, emphatic
Context Variability:
- Casual: This highlights an important point.
- Professional: The report highlights that employee engagement remains a key concern.
- Spoken: This highlights how important communication really is.
5. This Reveals That
Meaning: Makes previously unclear information or a hidden fact apparent.
Explanation: Use it when an observation, investigation, or discovery uncovers something meaningful.
Example Sentence: The investigation reveals that several processes need improvement.
Best Use: Research analysis
Worst Use: Obvious facts
Tone: Analytical, insightful, informative
Context Variability:
- Casual: This reveals what happened.
- Professional: The analysis reveals that operational costs have increased.
- Spoken: This reveals that we overlooked an important detail.
6. This Confirms That
Meaning: Establishes that something previously believed or suspected is correct.
Explanation: Use it when new evidence supports an existing conclusion.
Example Sentence: The latest test results confirm that the system is functioning correctly.
Best Use: Verified findings
Worst Use: Uncertain claims
Tone: Confident, formal, conclusive
Context Variability:
- Casual: This confirms that we were right.
- Professional: The audit confirms that the company followed the required procedures.
- Spoken: This confirms that our original decision was correct.
7. This Proves That
Meaning: Establishes something as true through sufficient evidence.
Explanation: Use this stronger expression only when the available evidence genuinely establishes the claim.
Example Sentence: The repeated experiments prove that the material can withstand extreme temperatures.
Best Use: Strong evidence
Worst Use: Speculation
Tone: Direct, assertive, conclusive
Context Variability:
- Casual: This proves that practice makes a difference.
- Professional: The verified results prove that the proposed method meets the required standard.
- Spoken: This proves that hard work pays off.
8. This Illustrates That
Meaning: Explains an idea through an example or specific situation.
Explanation: Use it when a particular example makes a broader point easier to understand.
Example Sentence: The company’s rapid growth illustrates that customer satisfaction can support long-term success.
Best Use: Educational writing
Worst Use: Unrelated examples
Tone: Educational, explanatory, formal
Context Variability:
- Casual: This illustrates how things can change.
- Professional: This case illustrates that clear communication reduces misunderstandings.
- Spoken: This illustrates why preparation matters.
9. This Makes It Clear That
Meaning: Emphasizes that a conclusion is easy to understand.
Explanation: Use it when information makes a particular point especially obvious.
Example Sentence: The repeated delays make it clear that the current schedule is unrealistic.
Best Use: Clear explanations
Worst Use: Ambiguous evidence
Tone: Direct, confident, conversational
Context Variability:
- Casual: This makes it clear that we need help.
- Professional: The findings make it clear that additional training is necessary.
- Spoken: This makes it clear that we need another solution.
10. This Points to the Fact That
Meaning: Directs attention toward a particular fact or conclusion.
Explanation: Use this expression when available information supports a specific observation.
Example Sentence: The consistent improvement in sales points to the fact that the new strategy is effective.
Best Use: Analytical discussions
Worst Use: Concise headlines
Tone: Explanatory, neutral, analytical
Context Variability:
- Casual: This points to the fact that something has changed.
- Professional: The findings point to the fact that customer expectations are evolving.
- Spoken: This points to the fact that we need better planning.
11. This Establishes That
Meaning: Provides a basis for accepting something as true.
Explanation: Use it when evidence or an argument firmly supports a conclusion.
Example Sentence: The documented results establish that the new procedure meets industry requirements.
Best Use: Formal arguments
Worst Use: Weak assumptions
Tone: Formal, authoritative, precise
Context Variability:
- Casual: This establishes that we have a starting point.
- Professional: The findings establish that the revised policy meets the necessary standards.
- Spoken: This establishes that we have enough information to move forward.
12. This Demonstrates the Fact That
Meaning: Emphasizes that evidence supports a particular statement.
Explanation: It provides a formal way to introduce a conclusion, although the shorter “this demonstrates that” is usually more concise.
Example Sentence: The study demonstrates the fact that consistent practice improves learning outcomes.
Best Use: Formal explanations
Worst Use: Concise writing
Tone: Formal, explanatory, emphatic
Context Variability:
- Casual: This demonstrates the fact that preparation matters.
- Professional: The findings demonstrate the fact that customer expectations have changed.
- Spoken: This demonstrates the fact that teamwork makes a difference.
13. This Underscores That
Meaning: Emphasizes the importance of a particular point.
Explanation: Use it when you want to stress the significance of a finding or observation.
Example Sentence: The growing demand for digital services underscores that businesses must adapt to changing customer needs.
Best Use: Strategic reports
Worst Use: Casual chats
Tone: Sophisticated, formal, emphatic
Context Variability:
- Casual: This underscores how important the decision is.
- Professional: The latest findings underscore that employee development should remain a priority.
- Spoken: This underscores why we need to take action.
14. This Suggests the Possibility That
Meaning: Introduces a potential explanation or outcome.
Explanation: Use it when the evidence points toward something that has not yet been established.
Example Sentence: The unexpected decline in demand suggests the possibility that customer preferences are changing.
Best Use: Research discussions
Worst Use: Certain conclusions
Tone: Cautious, analytical, formal
Context Variability:
- Casual: This suggests the possibility that we missed something.
- Professional: The available evidence suggests the possibility that additional investment may be required.
- Spoken: This suggests the possibility that we should explore other options.
15. This Reflects That
Meaning: Communicates that something represents or mirrors a particular situation.
Explanation: Use this construction carefully when describing how evidence or behavior reflects a broader condition.
Example Sentence: The improvement in employee retention reflects that the company has made progress in creating a supportive workplace.
Best Use: Workplace analysis
Worst Use: Unrelated conclusions
Tone: Professional, reflective, analytical
Context Variability:
- Casual: This reflects how much things have changed.
- Professional: The improved retention rate reflects that workplace conditions have become more supportive.
- Spoken: This reflects how far we have come.
16. This Demonstrates the Importance of
Meaning: Shows why a particular factor or action matters.
Explanation: Use it when the main purpose is to emphasize the value of something rather than simply state a conclusion.
Example Sentence: The successful project demonstrates the importance of communication and cooperation.
Best Use: Educational writing
Worst Use: Unrelated observations
Tone: Educational, professional, persuasive
Context Variability:
- Casual: This demonstrates the importance of being prepared.
- Professional: The results demonstrate the importance of investing in employee training.
- Spoken: This demonstrates the importance of working together.
17. This Provides Evidence That
Meaning: Introduces information that supports a particular conclusion.
Explanation: Use it when referring to research, statistics, observations, or documented findings.
Example Sentence: The latest customer survey provides evidence that satisfaction levels are improving.
Best Use: Research papers
Worst Use: Unsupported opinions
Tone: Academic, objective, evidence-based
Context Variability:
- Casual: This provides evidence that our plan is working.
- Professional: The performance data provides evidence that the revised process is delivering better results.
- Spoken: This provides evidence that we’re moving in the right direction.
18. This Serves as an Indication That
Meaning: Acts as a sign or signal of a particular situation.
Explanation: Use it when an observation provides an indication of a wider trend or condition.
Example Sentence: The increase in repeat purchases serves as an indication that customer loyalty is improving.
Best Use: Business analysis
Worst Use: Casual conversation
Tone: Formal, analytical, objective
Context Variability:
- Casual: This serves as an indication that things are improving.
- Professional: The lower employee turnover serves as an indication that workplace satisfaction has increased.
- Spoken: This serves as an indication that our efforts are working.
19. This Makes Evident That
Meaning: Expresses that something has become apparent or recognizable.
Explanation: It is a formal construction, but “this makes it evident that” is generally more natural and grammatically complete.
Example Sentence: The consistent results make it evident that the revised approach is effective.
Best Use: Formal analysis
Worst Use: Casual speaking
Tone: Formal, precise, analytical
Context Variability:
- Casual: This makes it evident that we need a change.
- Professional: The findings make it evident that additional resources are required.
- Spoken: This makes it evident that our original plan needs improvement.
20. This Demonstrates the Need for
Meaning: Shows why a particular action, change, or resource is necessary.
Explanation: Use it when evidence points toward a requirement or practical solution.
Example Sentence: The rising number of customer complaints demonstrates the need for better support services.
Best Use: Business proposals
Worst Use: Unrelated facts
Tone: Professional, persuasive, practical
Context Variability:
- Casual: This demonstrates the need for a better plan.
- Professional: The recent findings demonstrate the need for additional employee training.
- Spoken: This demonstrates the need for more careful planning.
21. This Is Indicative of
Meaning: Suggests that something is a sign of a particular condition or development.
Explanation: Use it to connect an observation with a wider trend or situation.
Example Sentence: The steady increase in subscriptions is indicative of growing market demand.
Best Use: Analytical reports
Worst Use: Simple conversations
Tone: Formal, analytical, sophisticated
Context Variability:
- Casual: This is indicative of a positive change.
- Professional: The improved retention rate is indicative of stronger employee engagement.
- Spoken: This is indicative of progress.
22. This Brings to Light That
Meaning: Introduces information that makes an issue or fact more noticeable.
Explanation: Use it when a discussion or investigation draws attention to something previously overlooked.
Example Sentence: The internal review brings to light that several communication issues remain unresolved.
Best Use: Investigative writing
Worst Use: Obvious facts
Tone: Explanatory, formal, revealing
Context Variability:
- Casual: This brings to light something important.
- Professional: The assessment brings to light that several operational improvements are necessary.
- Spoken: This brings to light a problem we hadn’t considered.
23. This Is a Sign That
Meaning: Identifies something as an indication of a particular development.
Explanation: Use it when an event or observation suggests that something is happening.
Example Sentence: The increase in customer referrals is a sign that people trust the brand.
Best Use: Everyday explanations
Worst Use: Technical conclusions
Tone: Natural, neutral, explanatory
Context Variability:
- Casual: This is a sign that things are getting better.
- Professional: The growing number of referrals is a sign that customer confidence is improving.
- Spoken: This is a sign that we’re doing something right.
24. This Goes to Show That
Meaning: Emphasizes a lesson or conclusion drawn from an experience or situation.
Explanation: Use it in conversational writing when you want to reinforce what an example demonstrates.
Example Sentence: Their successful partnership goes to show that mutual trust is essential for long-term success.
Best Use: Informal explanations
Worst Use: Academic reports
Tone: Conversational, emphatic, reflective
Context Variability:
- Casual: This goes to show that patience pays off.
- Professional: This example goes to show that effective collaboration can produce positive results.
- Spoken: This goes to show that practice really matters.
25. This Establishes the Point That
Meaning: Reinforces a particular argument or observation.
Explanation: Use it when connecting evidence to a central point in a discussion.
Example Sentence: The repeated findings establish the point that consistency is essential for long-term improvement.
Best Use: Argumentative writing
Worst Use: Short messages
Tone: Formal, persuasive, structured
Context Variability:
- Casual: This establishes the point that we need consistency.
- Professional: The results establish the point that regular evaluation is necessary.
- Spoken: This establishes the point that planning makes a difference.
26. This Emphasizes That
Meaning: Gives special importance to a particular fact or conclusion.
Explanation: Use it when you want readers or listeners to focus on an important aspect of your message.
Example Sentence: The customer feedback emphasizes that timely communication is essential.
Best Use: Presentations
Worst Use: Minor details
Tone: Direct, professional, emphatic
Context Variability:
- Casual: This emphasizes that we should stay focused.
- Professional: The assessment emphasizes that employee well-being must remain a priority.
- Spoken: This emphasizes how important our next decision is.
27. This Is Proof That
Meaning: Presents something as evidence supporting a particular claim.
Explanation: Use it when a result or observation provides strong support for a conclusion.
Example Sentence: The successful launch is proof that careful planning can make a significant difference.
Best Use: Strong examples
Worst Use: Unverified claims
Tone: Assertive, confident, persuasive
Context Variability:
- Casual: This is proof that we can do it.
- Professional: The verified results are proof that the revised process has improved efficiency.
- Spoken: This is proof that hard work pays off.
28. This Sheds Light on
Meaning: Helps explain or clarify a subject that was previously unclear.
Explanation: Use it when new information provides a better understanding of a situation.
Example Sentence: The latest research sheds light on the factors influencing consumer behavior.
Best Use: Research discussions
Worst Use: Unrelated statements
Tone: Informative, analytical, sophisticated
Context Variability:
- Casual: This sheds light on what happened.
- Professional: The assessment sheds light on the reasons behind declining productivity.
- Spoken: This sheds light on why the problem occurred.
29. This Reinforces the Idea That
Meaning: Provides additional support for an existing argument or belief.
Explanation: Use it when new information strengthens a point that has already been introduced.
Example Sentence: The latest findings reinforce the idea that employee recognition improves workplace motivation.
Best Use: Persuasive writing
Worst Use: New unrelated topics
Tone: Formal, persuasive, analytical
Context Variability:
- Casual: This reinforces the idea that we should keep trying.
- Professional: The survey results reinforce the idea that flexible working arrangements improve employee satisfaction.
- Spoken: This reinforces the idea that teamwork is important.
30. This Demonstrates a Clear Connection Between
Meaning: Identifies a relationship between two or more factors.
Explanation: Use it when evidence establishes or supports a relationship between different variables or ideas.
Example Sentence: The research demonstrates a clear connection between regular exercise and improved cardiovascular fitness.
Best Use: Research analysis
Worst Use: Unrelated comparisons
Tone: Academic, analytical, informative
Context Variability:
- Casual: This demonstrates a clear connection between effort and results.
- Professional: The findings demonstrate a clear connection between employee training and improved performance.
- Spoken: This demonstrates a clear connection between preparation and success.
Pull Quotes: Key Lessons for Better English
Choose “this demonstrates that” when evidence strongly supports your conclusion.
Use “this suggests that” when presenting an interpretation rather than an established fact.
Professional writing becomes clearer when your vocabulary reflects the strength of your evidence.
Avoid complicated expressions when a simple, direct sentence communicates the idea more effectively.
Mini Quiz: Test Your Understanding
Check how well you can choose the right expression for different situations.
Question 1: Academic Writing
You are discussing research results that strongly support a conclusion. Which expression is most appropriate?
A. This goes to show that
B. This demonstrates that
C. This means that
D. This makes it clear that
Correct Answer: B. This demonstrates that
Explanation: It is a strong formal expression suitable for presenting well-supported research findings.
Question 2: Uncertain Findings
A survey suggests that customers might prefer online shopping, but the results are not conclusive. Which phrase should you use?
A. This proves that
B. This confirms that
C. This suggests that
D. This establishes that
Correct Answer: C. This suggests that
Explanation: It communicates a possible conclusion without presenting it as an established fact.
Question 3: Professional Communication
You are writing a business report about an important issue that requires attention. Which alternative is suitable?
A. This highlights that
B. This goes to show that
C. This is proof that
D. This tells us that
Correct Answer: A. This highlights that
Explanation: It draws professional attention to an important finding.
Question 4: Everyday Conversation
Your friend has worked consistently and finally achieved a difficult goal. Which expression sounds natural?
A. This establishes that
B. This goes to show that
C. This is indicative of
D. This provides evidence that
Correct Answer: B. This goes to show that
Explanation: It is a natural conversational expression used to emphasize a lesson or observation.
Comparison Table: Top 10 Alternatives
The following table summarizes ten useful expressions and their best applications.
| Phrase | Tone | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| This demonstrates that | Formal | Academic writing |
| This indicates that | Analytical | Research reports |
| This suggests that | Neutral | Uncertain findings |
| This highlights that | Professional | Business reports |
| This reveals that | Analytical | New discoveries |
| This confirms that | Confident | Verified results |
| This illustrates that | Educational | Examples and explanations |
| This makes it clear that | Conversational | Everyday explanations |
| This provides evidence that | Academic | Research discussions |
| This underscores that | Formal | Emphasizing importance |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best alternatives to “this shows that”?
Some of the best alternatives include “this demonstrates that,” “this indicates that,” “this suggests that,” “this reveals that,” and “this highlights that.” Choose according to your evidence and intended meaning.
2. How can I avoid repeating “this shows that” in an essay?
Replace repeated expressions with suitable alternatives such as “the findings indicate,” “the evidence demonstrates,” and “the results suggest.” You can also restructure sentences to communicate conclusions more directly.
3. What is a more professional way to say “this shows that”?
“This demonstrates that” and “this indicates that” are excellent professional alternatives. For research and business reports, “the findings suggest that” is also useful when the evidence is not conclusive.
4. Is “this suggests that” the same as “this shows that”?
Not exactly. “This shows that” generally presents something as demonstrated, while “this suggests that” introduces a possible interpretation. The latter communicates greater uncertainty.
5. Can I use “this demonstrates that” in academic writing?
Yes. It is a suitable academic expression when evidence or examples provide strong support for your argument. Avoid using it when the available information only suggests a possibility.
Conclusion
Learning different alternatives to “this shows that” can make your English more varied, natural, and professional. Expressions such as “this demonstrates that,” “this indicates that,” and “this suggests that” help you communicate evidence and conclusions with greater accuracy. They are especially useful in academic writing, professional reports, presentations, and everyday discussions.
The best way to improve is to practice using these expressions in your own sentences. Pay attention to their meanings, tones, and levels of certainty before choosing one. Start with a few alternatives, use them regularly, and gradually build a stronger vocabulary for confident English communication.
