Ever feel stuck using the same boring phrase over and over? You’re not alone. Most writers fall into this trap, especially when citing academic sources or presenting evidence in essays. The phrase “the text states” becomes a crutch we lean on too heavily.
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to sound repetitive anymore. This guide reveals 20 fresh alternatives to the text states that’ll transform your writing from bland to brilliant. Each alternative comes with real-world examples you can use immediately.
Whether you’re crafting emails to professors, writing research papers, or preparing business reports, these scholarly writing expressions will elevate your communication. Let’s dive into the alternatives that’ll make your academic discourse vocabulary shine.
Is It Professionally Good to Use “The Text States”?
Before exploring our alternatives, let’s address the elephant in the room. Is “the text states” professionally acceptable? Absolutely yes – but there’s a catch.
While this phrase works perfectly in formal essay writing, overusing it creates problems. Your writing sounds robotic. Readers notice the repetition. You appear to have limited vocabulary skills.
Academic writing improvement demands variety. When you use different synonyms for the text states, you demonstrate language mastery. Professors notice this sophistication. Colleagues respect your communication skills.
Think about it this way: would you eat the same meal every day? Of course not. Your writing deserves the same variety. The Purdue Online Writing Lab emphasizes this principle in their academic writing guide.
Professional writing style requires flexibility. Each alternative phrase carries subtle differences in meaning. Some suggest certainty. Others imply interpretation. Learning these nuances elevates your scholarly communication.
| Usage Level | Appropriateness | Reader Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Occasional | Excellent | Professional |
| Frequent | Good | Acceptable |
| Constant | Poor | Repetitive |
The solution? Mix things up with our comprehensive list of alternatives.
Comprehensive List of Alternatives to “The Text States”
Here’s your complete toolkit of better words for the text states. Each phrase offers unique benefits for different writing contexts. Bookmark this list for quick reference during your next writing session.
Quick Reference Table:
| Alternative | Best Context | Formality Level |
|---|---|---|
| The passage claims | Argumentative writing | Medium-High |
| The article articulates | Clear explanations | High |
| The writing specifies | Precise details | High |
| The section mentions | Partial references | Medium |
| The author asserts | Strong statements | High |
| The document highlights | Key points | Medium-High |
| The excerpt reveals | Discoveries | Medium |
| The text indicates | Implications | Medium-High |
| The passage demonstrates | Evidence | High |
| The source argues | Main arguments | High |
Now let’s explore each alternative with detailed examples and usage contexts.
1. The Passage Claims

When to use it: This alternative works perfectly when introducing quotes in writing that present arguments or assertions. It suggests the text is making a specific claim rather than stating absolute fact.
Example: Email to a Professor
Subject: Analysis of Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18 – New Perspective
Dear Professor Johnson,
I’ve discovered something fascinating in my research on Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18. The passage claims that comparing the subject to a summer’s day isn’t mere flattery. Instead, it’s commentary on art’s lasting power.
This interpretation transforms our understanding completely. The sonnet becomes less about romance and more about artistic immortality. What are your thoughts on this perspective?
Best regards, Emily Chen
Why this works: The phrase “claims” acknowledges interpretation while maintaining academic credibility. It’s perfect for scholarly communication where different viewpoints exist.
2. The Article Articulates
This phrase excels when the source material presents ideas clearly and expressively. It suggests sophisticated communication and thorough explanation.
Example: Book Review
Title: “The Hidden Language of Trees” – Revolutionary Forest Science
Dr. Suzanne Simard challenges everything we know about forests. The article articulates a complex underground network where trees communicate through fungal connections. This discovery revolutionizes our understanding of forest ecosystems.
The research reveals how trees share nutrients, warn each other about dangers, and support struggling neighbors. Communication between trees happens constantly beneath our feet. This changes how we view plant intelligence forever.
Context benefit: “Articulates” implies clarity and sophistication – perfect for academic writing improvement in scientific contexts.
3. The Writing Specifies
Use this alternative when the text provides detailed, precise information. It’s ideal for legal document analysis and technical writing where accuracy matters most.
Example: Legal Document Analysis
Memo: Contract Clause 7.3 Review
Team,
I’ve examined the disputed intellectual property clause carefully. The writing specifies that all creations during the project timeline become joint property of both parties. This detail changes our negotiation strategy completely.
Intellectual property rights issues often hinge on such specific language. We need to address this before moving forward.
Regards, Mark Daniels, Legal Counsel
Strategic advantage: “Specifies” emphasizes precision – crucial for professional writing alternatives in legal contexts.
4. The Section Mentions

Perfect for referencing specific parts of longer texts. This phrase works beautifully in research paper expressions where you’re citing particular segments.
Example: Research Paper Citation
Climate change impacts on marine life demand immediate attention. The section mentions significant coral reef biodiversity decline over the past decade. These findings underscore the urgency of conservation efforts.
Coral reef biodiversity serves as an early warning system for ocean health. When reefs suffer, entire marine ecosystems face collapse. The research provides compelling evidence for immediate action.
Usage tip: This alternative helps you avoid repetition in essays while maintaining academic credibility.
5. The Author Asserts
This phrase implies strong, confident statements from the writer. It’s excellent for literary criticism and argumentative contexts.
Example: Literary Criticism
Professor Maria Garcia offers fresh insights into To Kill a Mockingbird. The author asserts that Atticus Finch represents passive resistance to racism – a stance that ultimately maintains existing power structures.
This controversial perspective challenges traditional interpretations. Instead of heroic figure, Garcia sees Atticus as well-meaning but ultimately ineffective advocate for change.
Academic impact: “Asserts” suggests confidence and conviction – perfect for strong academic expressions.
6. The Document Highlights
Ideal when texts emphasize or draw attention to particular points. This alternative works wonderfully in business strategy memo contexts.
Example: Company Report Analysis
To: Executive Team Subject: Q3 Financial Performance Key Insights
Team,
Our quarterly review reveals encouraging trends. The document highlights a 15% revenue increase from our new product line. This success validates our recent marketing investments completely.
E-commerce growth continues driving these positive results. Customer acquisition costs dropped while retention rates improved significantly. The numbers tell a compelling success story.
Best, Sarah Lee, CFO
Professional benefit: “Highlights” suggests important, emphasized information – perfect for effective paraphrasing in business contexts.
7. The Excerpt Reveals
This alternative excels when introducing surprising or significant information. It creates intrigue and emphasizes discovery.
Example: Historical Document Analysis
Declassified government files yield shocking discoveries. The excerpt reveals that officials knew about nuclear testing environmental risks as early as 1954 – decades before public disclosure.
This information changes our understanding of government transparency during the Cold War era. The cover-up lasted much longer than previously thought.
Dramatic impact: “Reveals” creates suspense and emphasizes the significance of findings.
8. The Text Indicates
Perfect when information is inferred or deduced rather than explicitly stated. This phrase works beautifully in scientific contexts.
Example: Scientific Paper Discussion
Exoplanet research reaches exciting new frontiers. The text indicates that specific atmospheric gases could serve as reliable biomarkers for detecting extraterrestrial life.
These findings indicate potential breakthrough moments in astrobiology. We’re closer than ever to answering humanity’s biggest question: are we alone?
Scientific precision: “Indicates” suggests careful inference – ideal for reporting verbs in research contexts.
9. The Passage Demonstrates

Use this when texts provide clear evidence or examples supporting their points. It’s perfect for expressing evidence in writing.
Example: Art History Essay
Caravaggio revolutionized Baroque painting through innovative techniques. The passage demonstrates how his chiaroscuro method created dramatic light-dark contrasts that conveyed deep psychological themes.
This technique influenced countless artists for centuries. The visual impact remains stunning even today.
Evidence emphasis: “Demonstrates” suggests proof and clear examples – excellent for academic vocabulary expansion.
10. The Source Argues
This alternative presents main arguments or thesis statements effectively. It’s ideal for political science paper contexts.
Example: Political Science Paper
Dr. Amina Khoury challenges conventional wisdom about democratization. The source argues that economic development doesn’t automatically lead to democratic governance – contradicting decades of political theory.
This perspective forces scholars to reconsider fundamental assumptions about political transitions. The implications extend far beyond academic circles.
Argumentative strength: “Argues” suggests main thesis presentation – perfect for citing academic sources.
11. The Passage Suggests
Excellent when texts imply something without direct statement. This phrase captures subtle implications beautifully.
Example: Literary Analysis Essay
Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway operates on multiple levels simultaneously. The passage suggests that Clarissa’s internal monologue reflects broader post-war societal anxieties and cultural shifts.
This interpretation adds depth to Woolf’s narrative technique. The psychological realism becomes social commentary.
Subtle interpretation: “Suggests” acknowledges implied meaning – ideal for language variety in writing.
12. The Literature Emphasizes
Perfect for referencing multiple sources that stress particular points. This alternative works wonderfully in research proposal contexts.
Example: Research Proposal
Cognitive psychology research reveals fascinating sleep-memory connections. The literature emphasizes sleep’s crucial role in memory consolidation processes. This consensus supports our proposed learning efficiency study.
Multiple studies confirm these findings across different populations and age groups.
Academic authority: “Emphasizes” suggests scholarly consensus – excellent for precise academic language.
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13. The Document Outlines
Ideal for texts that provide structured overviews or detailed plans. This phrase works perfectly in business contexts.
Example: Business Strategy Memo
To: Marketing Team Subject: Q4 Campaign Strategy Framework
Team,
Our comprehensive campaign proposal is ready for review. The document outlines a multi-channel approach leveraging social media, influencer partnerships, and targeted email campaigns for maximum reach.
Each channel receives specific budget allocations and success metrics. The integrated approach maximizes our marketing investment efficiency.
Best, Alex Rodriguez, Marketing Director
Strategic clarity: “Outlines” suggests organized, systematic presentation – perfect for professional writing style.
14. The Analysis Proposes
Use this when presenting hypotheses or action suggestions. It’s excellent for policy and research contexts.
Example: Environmental Policy Paper
Urban air pollution demands comprehensive solutions. The analysis proposes combining increased public transportation investment with stricter vehicle emissions standards for maximum environmental impact.
This multi-faceted approach addresses root causes rather than symptoms. The strategy promises measurable air quality improvements within five years.
Solution focus: “Proposes” suggests actionable recommendations – ideal for language for academic success.
15. The Report Illustrates

Perfect when texts provide examples or data supporting their points. This alternative excels in business and research contexts.
Example: Economic Forecast Presentation
Our quarterly economic analysis identifies significant market trends. The report illustrates e-commerce’s growing impact on traditional retail through compelling charts and detailed case studies.
Consumer behavior patterns shifted dramatically over the past year. Online shopping preferences appear permanent rather than temporary pandemic responses.
Data emphasis: “Illustrates” suggests visual evidence and examples – excellent for expressing ideas in essays.
16. The Findings Indicate
Ideal for discussing research results or investigation conclusions. This phrase works beautifully in scientific contexts.
Example: Scientific Research Summary
Marine biology research yields surprising coral resilience discoveries. The findings indicate that certain coral species adapt to warmer ocean temperatures faster than previously thought. This offers hope for reef conservation efforts.
These adaptations might help coral reefs survive climate change impacts. The research opens new conservation strategy possibilities.
Scientific credibility: “Findings indicate” suggests research-based conclusions – perfect for avoiding repetition in essays.
17. The Narrative Conveys
This alternative works wonderfully when discussing overall messages or feelings in texts. It’s perfect for literary analysis.
Example: Film Review Essay
Kazuo Ishiguro’s latest novel explores memory and identity masterfully. The narrative conveys melancholy and longing through fragmented recollections that mirror human experiences of confronting the past.
The storytelling technique creates emotional resonance with readers. Memory becomes both blessing and burden in Ishiguro’s capable hands.
Emotional depth: “Conveys” suggests feeling and atmosphere – ideal for better ways to phrase quotes.
18. The Discourse Presents
Perfect for ongoing academic discussions or field-wide conversations. This phrase works beautifully in scholarly contexts.
Example: Sociology Seminar Presentation
Contemporary gender studies evolve rapidly. The discourse presents nuanced identity understanding that moves beyond binary categories toward recognizing gender expression spectrums.
This shift transforms how we study identity formation and social relationships. Academic conversations reflect broader cultural changes.
Academic sophistication: “Discourse presents” suggests scholarly conversation – excellent for improving scholarly writing.
19. The Extract Delineates
Use this when texts clearly define concepts or set boundaries. It’s perfect for legal and technical writing.
Example: Legal Brief
Intellectual property law requires careful distinction-making. The extract delineates differences between copyright, trademark, and patent protections clearly. These distinctions prove crucial for our software design case.
Each protection type offers different benefits and limitations. Understanding these nuances determines legal strategy success.
Technical precision: “Delineates” suggests clear boundaries – ideal for formal writing alternatives.
20. The Commentary Posits

Perfect for introducing main arguments or hypotheses, especially in advanced academic writing.
Example: Philosophy Essay
Heidegger’s Being and Time challenges traditional metaphysical thinking fundamentally. The commentary posits that our existence understanding depends entirely on temporal experience – revolutionizing philosophical approaches to ontology.
This perspective transforms how we consider human consciousness and reality itself. The implications extend across multiple philosophical disciplines.
Philosophical depth: “Posits” suggests theoretical positioning – excellent for academic writing guide contexts.
FAQ’s
How do you say the text states in different ways?
The most versatile alternatives include “the passage claims,” “the author asserts,” “the document highlights,” and “the source argues” – choose based on your specific context and formality needs.
What can I say instead of the text says?
Use articulates, specifies, mentions, asserts, highlights, reveals, indicates, demonstrates, argues, suggests, emphasizes, outlines, proposes, illustrates, conveys, presents, delineates, or posits based on your writing context.
What is another phrase for in the text it states?
Transform it into sophisticated expressions like “the passage demonstrates,” “the document outlines,” or “the excerpt reveals” for more professional communication.
What is another way to say it states?
Replace with action-oriented alternatives: claims, articulates, specifies, mentions, asserts, highlights, reveals, indicates, demonstrates, argues, suggests, emphasizes, outlines, proposes, illustrates, conveys, presents, delineates, or posits.
Conclusion
Finding other ways to say “the text states” makes your writing smoother. It helps avoid repeating the same phrase again and again. Clear variety also keeps your reader more engaged. Simple changes can make a big difference.
Using these 20 alternatives will build stronger writing skills. You’ll sound more natural in essays, reports, and daily work. Practice with the examples to get comfortable. Soon, choosing the right phrase will feel easy.

Flairsy is the word expert behind Englishfixerr.com, helping readers find the perfect synonyms and simple word choices. With a love for clarity and creativity, Flairsy makes English easy and stylish. From tricky terms to everyday phrases, he turns confusion into confidence.