Beyond “This Shows”: Diverse Ways to Express Demonstration
The phrase “this shows” is a common way to indicate that evidence supports a particular conclusion. However, relying on this phrase repeatedly can make your writing or speech sound monotonous and less impactful.
Mastering alternative expressions not only enhances the clarity and sophistication of your communication but also allows you to tailor your language to specific contexts, making your arguments more persuasive and engaging. Whether you are an academic writer, a student, or anyone seeking to improve their English proficiency, this article provides a comprehensive guide to diverse and effective ways to express demonstration.
This article covers a wide range of expressions and grammatical structures that can replace “this shows,” providing examples and usage rules to help you understand and apply them correctly. By exploring these alternatives, you will be able to vary your language, strengthen your arguments, and communicate more effectively in both formal and informal settings.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition: Expressing Demonstration
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of Expressions
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition: Expressing Demonstration
Expressing demonstration involves indicating that a particular piece of evidence, observation, or fact supports a specific conclusion or argument. It is a crucial element in academic writing, persuasive speech, and everyday communication.
The phrase “this shows” serves this purpose but can often be replaced with more sophisticated and precise language.
Demonstration can be achieved through various grammatical structures, including verbs, adverbs, and complex sentence constructions. The key is to select the expression that best fits the context and accurately conveys the relationship between the evidence and the conclusion.
Effective demonstration strengthens arguments and enhances the credibility of the speaker or writer.
Function: The primary function of expressing demonstration is to establish a logical connection between evidence and a conclusion. This helps to clarify the reasoning process and make the argument more convincing. By clearly demonstrating the link between evidence and conclusion, communicators can persuade their audience to accept their viewpoint.
Structural Breakdown
The expressions used to demonstrate a point can be broken down into several structural components. These components include demonstrative pronouns, verbs of demonstration, adverbial phrases, prepositional phrases, and complex sentence structures.
- Demonstrative Pronouns and Adjectives: Words like this, that, these, and those can be used to refer to specific pieces of evidence. When used as adjectives, they modify nouns to highlight specific examples.
- Verbs of Demonstration: Verbs such as indicates, proves, suggests, reveals, highlights, and illustrates directly show the relationship between evidence and conclusion.
- Adverbial Phrases: Phrases like therefore, consequently, as a result, and thus can be used to introduce the conclusion that follows from the evidence.
- Prepositional Phrases: Phrases such as in light of, based on, and according to can be used to frame the evidence and its implications.
- Complex Sentences: Using clauses introduced by conjunctions like since, because, and as can effectively link evidence and conclusion within a single sentence.
Types and Categories of Expressions
There are several types of expressions you can use instead of “this shows,” each with its own nuances and applications. These can be broadly categorized as follows:
Demonstrative Pronouns and Adjectives
Demonstrative pronouns (this, that, these, those) and adjectives are used to point out specific items or pieces of information. They establish a direct link between the evidence and the conclusion.
Verbs of Demonstration
Verbs like indicates, proves, suggests, reveals, highlights, and illustrates are powerful tools for explicitly stating the relationship between evidence and conclusion. They leave no room for ambiguity.
Adverbial Phrases
Adverbial phrases such as therefore, consequently, as a result, thus, and hence provide a clear transition from the evidence to the conclusion. They emphasize the logical connection between the two.
Prepositional Phrases
Prepositional phrases like in light of, based on, according to, and in view of provide context for the evidence and explain how it supports the conclusion. They add depth to the argument.
Complex Sentences
Complex sentences, using conjunctions such as because, since, as, and given that, integrate the evidence and conclusion into a single, cohesive statement. This approach can create a stronger and more seamless argument.
Examples
Here are several examples of alternative ways to express demonstration, categorized by the type of expression used.
Demonstrative Pronouns and Adjectives Examples
The following examples demonstrate how demonstrative pronouns and adjectives can be used to replace “this shows”.
| Original Sentence | Alternative Sentence |
|---|---|
| This shows that the experiment was successful. | This indicates that the experiment was successful. |
| This shows the importance of regular exercise. | This highlights the importance of regular exercise. |
| This shows a clear correlation between diet and health. | This reveals a clear correlation between diet and health. |
| This shows the effectiveness of the new treatment. | This demonstrates the effectiveness of the new treatment. |
| This shows the complexity of the issue. | This illustrates the complexity of the issue. |
| That shows the need for further research. | That suggests the need for further research. |
| Those show the long-term effects of pollution. | Those indicate the long-term effects of pollution. |
| These show the benefits of early intervention. | These highlight the benefits of early intervention. |
| This discovery shows a new avenue for exploration. | This discovery points to a new avenue for exploration. |
| This study shows the impact of social media. | This study reveals the impact of social media. |
| This report shows a rise in unemployment. | This report indicates a rise in unemployment. |
| This data shows a significant trend. | This data suggests a significant trend. |
| This evidence shows the suspect’s involvement. | This evidence proves the suspect’s involvement. |
| This example shows the principle in action. | This example illustrates the principle in action. |
| This graph shows the growth rate over time. | This graph demonstrates the growth rate over time. |
| This statistic shows the scale of the problem. | This statistic highlights the scale of the problem. |
| This analysis shows the underlying factors. | This analysis reveals the underlying factors. |
| This experiment shows the cause-and-effect relationship. | This experiment demonstrates the cause-and-effect relationship. |
| This observation shows a potential solution. | This observation suggests a potential solution. |
| This finding shows the importance of teamwork. | This finding underscores the importance of teamwork. |
Verbs of Demonstration Examples
The following examples illustrate the use of different verbs to express demonstration.
| Original Sentence | Alternative Sentence |
|---|---|
| This shows that the hypothesis is correct. | This proves that the hypothesis is correct. |
| This shows the potential benefits of the policy. | This highlights the potential benefits of the policy. |
| This shows a significant increase in sales. | This indicates a significant increase in sales. |
| This shows the complexity of the issue. | This illustrates the complexity of the issue. |
| This shows a possible explanation for the phenomenon. | This suggests a possible explanation for the phenomenon. |
| The data shows a clear trend. | The data reveals a clear trend. |
| The experiment shows the effectiveness of the treatment. | The experiment demonstrates the effectiveness of the treatment. |
| The study shows the impact of climate change. | The study underscores the impact of climate change. |
| The results show a positive outcome. | The results confirm a positive outcome. |
| The evidence shows his guilt. | The evidence establishes his guilt. |
| This situation shows the need for change. | This situation necessitates the need for change. |
| The survey shows high levels of satisfaction. | The survey reflects high levels of satisfaction. |
| The analysis shows the underlying causes. | The analysis elucidates the underlying causes. |
| The discovery shows a new path forward. | The discovery presents a new path forward. |
| The pattern shows a recurring theme. | The pattern evinces a recurring theme. |
| The correlation shows a relationship between the variables. | The correlation implies a relationship between the variables. |
| This incident shows a lack of communication. | This incident exemplifies a lack of communication. |
| The research shows the importance of education. | The research emphasizes the importance of education. |
| The statistics show a decline in poverty. | The statistics indicate a decline in poverty. |
| The investigation shows a link to organized crime. | The investigation uncovers a link to organized crime. |
Adverbial Phrases Examples
The following examples show how adverbial phrases can effectively replace “this shows”.
| Original Sentence | Alternative Sentence |
|---|---|
| This shows a clear link between smoking and cancer. | This demonstrates a clear link between smoking and cancer; therefore, smoking should be avoided. |
| This shows the impact of deforestation on climate change. | This illustrates the impact of deforestation on climate change; consequently, reforestation efforts are crucial. |
| This shows an increase in global temperatures. | This indicates an increase in global temperatures; as a result, climate change policies must be implemented. |
| This shows the effectiveness of the new drug. | This proves the effectiveness of the new drug; thus, it should be made available to patients. |
| This shows the importance of education. | This highlights the importance of education; hence, investing in education is essential. |
| The data shows a decline in unemployment. | The data reveals a decline in unemployment; accordingly, current economic policies are working. |
| The experiment shows a positive outcome. | The experiment confirms a positive outcome; subsequently, further research is warranted. |
| The study shows the benefits of exercise. | The study underscores the benefits of exercise; for this reason, people should incorporate exercise into their daily routines. |
| The analysis shows the underlying causes of poverty. | The analysis elucidates the underlying causes of poverty; in consequence, targeted interventions are necessary. |
| The research shows the impact of social media. | The research emphasizes the impact of social media; wherefore, its effects must be carefully monitored. |
| This shows the need for better infrastructure. | This reveals the need for better infrastructure; in that case, investment is clearly needed. |
| This shows the importance of early detection. | This underscores the importance of early detection; in effect, screening programs are highly beneficial. |
| This shows the connection between diet and health. | This highlights the connection between diet and health; on that account, healthy eating should be promoted. |
| This shows the value of renewable energy. | This demonstrates the value of renewable energy; on this basis, further development is encouraged. |
| This shows the decline of biodiversity. | This indicates the decline of biodiversity; owing to this, conservation efforts are urgently needed. |
| This shows the effectiveness of the new program. | This validates the effectiveness of the new program; by implication, the program should be expanded. |
| This shows the necessity for collaboration. | This emphasizes the necessity for collaboration; as such, partnerships should be fostered. |
| This shows the problem’s complexity. | This illustrates the problem’s complexity; as a necessary consequence, a multi-faceted approach is required. |
| This shows the high cost of inaction. | This reveals the high cost of inaction; given this, immediate steps are imperative. |
| This shows the potential for growth. | This suggests the potential for growth; concordantly, strategic investments should be pursued. |
Prepositional Phrases Examples
The following examples demonstrate the use of prepositional phrases as alternatives to “this shows”.
| Original Sentence | Alternative Sentence |
|---|---|
| This shows a clear link between exercise and mental health. | In light of this evidence, there is a clear link between exercise and mental health. |
| This shows the effectiveness of the new teaching method. | Based on this data, the new teaching method is effective. |
| This shows the importance of early childhood education. | According to this research, early childhood education is crucial. |
| This shows the impact of social media on teenagers. | In view of these findings, the impact of social media on teenagers is significant. |
| This shows the decline in bee populations. | Given this decline in bee populations, conservation efforts are urgently needed. |
| This shows the correlation between diet and disease. | Considering this correlation, diet and disease are closely related. |
| This shows the benefits of renewable energy. | With regard to these benefits, renewable energy is a viable alternative. |
| This shows the need for stricter regulations. | In consideration of these facts, stricter regulations are necessary. |
| This shows the potential for economic growth. | In the context of this potential, economic growth is promising. |
| This shows the impact of climate change on coastal regions. | In relation to this impact, climate change poses a threat to coastal regions. |
| This shows the necessity of teamwork. | In accordance with this necessity, teamwork is essential. |
| This shows the role of genetics in disease. | In terms of the genetics involved, genetics play a role in disease. |
| This shows the effect of pollution on air quality. | With respect to the effect of pollution, air quality is affected. |
| This shows the importance of water conservation. | In connection with this importance, water conservation is critical. |
| This shows the link between stress and health issues. | With reference to this link, stress and health issues are connected. |
| This shows the value of diversity in the workplace. | In the light of this value, diversity in the workplace is advantageous. |
| This shows the significance of mental health support. | In view of this significance, mental health support is crucial. |
| This shows the benefit of continuous learning. | Based upon this benefit, continuous learning is recommended. |
| This shows the impact of technology on society. | Considering this impact, technology’s effect on society is noteworthy. |
| This shows the urgency of climate action. | Given this urgency, climate action is imperative. |
Complex Sentences Examples
The following examples demonstrate how complex sentences can be used to express demonstration.
| Original Sentence | Alternative Sentence |
|---|---|
| This shows that the treatment is effective. | Because the data indicates a positive outcome, the treatment is effective. |
| This shows the need for further research. | Since this study raises new questions, further research is needed. |
| This shows the impact of exercise on health. | As this evidence demonstrates the benefits of exercise, it is recommended for improving health. |
| This shows the correlation between poverty and crime. | Given that the statistics reveal a strong correlation, poverty and crime are interconnected. |
| This shows the importance of education. | As the research underscores the importance of education, investing in it is crucial. |
| This shows the benefits of renewable energy. | Because the data highlights the advantages of renewable energy, it should be adopted more widely. |
| This shows the need for environmental protection. | Since this evidence demonstrates the impact of pollution, environmental protection is necessary. |
| This shows the effectiveness of the new policy. | As the results indicate a positive outcome, the new policy is effective. |
| This shows the importance of early intervention. | Because the study shows the benefits of early intervention, it should be implemented more widely. |
| This shows the impact of social media on society. | Since this research demonstrates the pervasive influence of social media, its effects must be carefully monitored. |
| This shows the significance of mental health support. | Given that the evidence emphasizes the importance of mental health support, it should be prioritized. |
| This shows the urgency of addressing climate change. | As the data reveals the severity of climate change impacts, immediate action is required. |
| This shows the necessity of international cooperation. | Because this challenge requires a global response, international cooperation is essential. |
| This shows the value of cultural diversity. | As the research indicates the benefits of cultural diversity, it should be promoted. |
| This shows the effectiveness of vaccination programs. | Since the statistics demonstrate the success of vaccination programs, they should be supported. |
| This shows the importance of healthy eating habits. | As this evidence highlights the connection between diet and health, healthy eating habits are crucial. |
| This shows the impact of technology on education. | Because this study reveals the transformative potential of technology, it should be integrated into education. |
| This shows the need for sustainable development. | Since this evidence highlights the environmental costs of unsustainable practices, sustainable development is essential. |
| This shows the benefits of lifelong learning. | As the research underscores the value of lifelong learning, it should be encouraged. |
| This shows the link between physical activity and longevity. | Because the data reveals a positive correlation, physical activity is linked to longevity. |
Usage Rules
When choosing an alternative to “this shows,” consider the following usage rules:
- Clarity: Ensure the chosen expression clearly conveys the relationship between evidence and conclusion.
- Context: Select an expression that is appropriate for the context, whether formal or informal.
- Precision: Use a word or phrase that accurately reflects the strength of the evidence and the certainty of the conclusion. For example, “proves” is stronger than “suggests.”
- Variety: Avoid overusing any single alternative to “this shows.” Vary your language to keep your writing or speech engaging.
- Grammar: Ensure that the chosen expression fits grammatically within the sentence.
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using alternatives to “this shows”:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| This demonstrates of the problem. | This demonstrates the problem. | The verb “demonstrates” should be followed directly by the object. |
| Therefore, this shows the result. | Therefore, this indicates the result. | Avoid using “this shows” in conjunction with other demonstrative adverbs. |
| Based from this data… | Based on this data… | The correct preposition to use is “on,” not “from.” |
| This suggests to the need for change. | This suggests the need for change. | The verb “suggests” does not require the preposition “to.” |
| Because this shows the importance… | Because this highlights the importance… | Avoid redundancy by replacing “this shows” with a more concise verb. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with these practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with an appropriate alternative to “this shows.”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| The data _______ a clear correlation between diet and health. | reveals |
| This _______ the importance of regular exercise. | highlights |
| _______ this evidence, we can conclude that the experiment was successful. | Based on |
| The study _______ the long-term effects of pollution. | indicates |
| _______ the new findings, further research is warranted. | Given |
| The results _______ a positive outcome. | confirm |
| This _______ the complexity of the issue. | illustrates |
| The experiment _______ the effectiveness of the treatment. | demonstrates |
| This _______ the need for change. | necessitates |
| _______, we can see that the policy has been successful. | Therefore |
Exercise 2: Sentence Transformation
Rewrite the following sentences using an alternative to “this shows.”
| Original Sentence | Alternative Sentence |
|---|---|
| This shows that the hypothesis is correct. | This proves that the hypothesis is correct. |
| This shows the potential benefits of the policy. | This highlights the potential benefits of the policy. |
| This shows a significant increase in sales. | This indicates a significant increase in sales. |
| This shows the complexity of the issue. | This illustrates the complexity of the issue. |
| This shows a possible explanation for the phenomenon. | This suggests a possible explanation for the phenomenon. |
| The data shows a clear trend. | The data reveals a clear trend. |
| The experiment shows the effectiveness of the treatment. | The experiment demonstrates the effectiveness of the treatment. |
| The study shows the impact of climate change. | The study underscores the impact of climate change. |
| The results show a positive outcome. | The results confirm a positive outcome. |
| The evidence shows his guilt. | The evidence establishes his guilt. |
Exercise 3: Error Correction
Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences.
| Incorrect Sentence | Correct Sentence |
|---|---|
| This demonstrates of the problem. | This demonstrates the problem. |
| Therefore, this shows the result. | Therefore, this indicates the result. |
| Based from this data… | Based on this data… |
| This suggests to the need for change. | This suggests the need for change. |
| Because this shows the importance… | Because this highlights the importance… |
| In regarding to the evidence… | Regarding the evidence… |
| This proves of the success of the project. | This proves the success of the project. |
| According this study… | According to this study… |
| Given to the circumstances… | Given the circumstances… |
| This emphasizes to the need for collaboration. | This emphasizes the need for collaboration. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, consider exploring more nuanced ways to express demonstration, such as using hedging language to soften claims or employing rhetorical devices to strengthen arguments. Additionally, analyze how different disciplines use specific demonstration techniques in their writing and communication.
Hedging Language: Using words like “may,” “might,” “could,” and “seems” can soften the strength of a claim, making it more palatable to an audience. This is particularly useful when the evidence is not conclusive.
Rhetorical Devices: Employing rhetorical devices such as metaphors, analogies, and anecdotes can make your arguments more persuasive and memorable. These devices can help to illustrate the connection between evidence and conclusion in a more engaging way.
Disciplinary Variations: Different academic disciplines often have their own preferred methods for expressing demonstration. For example, scientific writing tends to be more direct and explicit, while humanities writing may be more nuanced and interpretive.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about expressing demonstration.
- Why is it important to use alternatives to “this shows”?
Using a variety of expressions makes your writing more engaging and sophisticated. It also allows you to choose the word or phrase that best fits the context and accurately conveys the strength of your argument.
- When should I use a stronger verb like “proves” instead of a weaker verb like “suggests”?
Use a stronger verb when the evidence is conclusive and leaves little room for doubt. Use a weaker verb when the evidence is suggestive but not definitive.
- How can I avoid overusing any single alternative to “this shows”?
Keep a list of different expressions handy and consciously vary your language. Pay attention to the context and choose the expression that best fits the situation.
- Are there any situations where “this shows” is the best option?
While it’s generally good to vary your language, “this shows” can be appropriate in informal settings or when you want to keep your language simple and direct.
- How do I know if I’m using the right expression?
Consider the strength of the evidence and the certainty of the conclusion. If you’re unsure, consult a dictionary or thesaurus to find the most appropriate word or phrase.
- Can I use multiple expressions of demonstration in one paragraph?
Yes, you can, but be mindful of readability. Ensure that using multiple expressions enhances clarity rather than creating redundancy or confusion. Each expression should serve a distinct purpose in advancing your argument.
- Are there any expressions that should be avoided in formal writing?
Avoid overly informal or colloquial expressions. Stick to more formal and precise language, such as “demonstrates,” “indicates,” or “establishes,” in academic or professional contexts.
- How can I improve my ability to use these alternative expressions effectively?
Practice is key. Read widely and pay attention to how different writers use these expressions. Try incorporating them into your own writing and speaking, and ask for feedback from others.
Conclusion
Mastering alternatives to “this shows” is essential for effective communication. By expanding your vocabulary and understanding the nuances of different expressions, you can enhance the clarity, sophistication, and persuasiveness of your writing and speech.
Remember to consider the context, strength of evidence, and desired impact when choosing an alternative. With practice, you can confidently and effectively demonstrate your points, making your arguments more compelling and credible.
By incorporating the techniques and examples discussed in this article, you can elevate your English proficiency and communicate with greater precision and impact. Continue to explore different expressions and usage rules to further refine your language skills and become a more effective communicator.
Remember, the key to mastering any language skill is consistent practice and a willingness to learn and adapt.
