Beyond ‘Research Shows’: Diverse Ways to Express Findings

Effectively communicating research findings is crucial in academic writing, reports, and presentations. Over-relying on the phrase “research shows” can make your writing monotonous.

This article explores a variety of alternative phrases and expressions to convey research results with greater precision, clarity, and impact. Understanding these alternatives will enhance your ability to articulate findings accurately and engage your audience more effectively.

This guide is perfect for students, researchers, writers, and anyone looking to improve their communication skills.

By mastering these diverse expressions, you’ll be able to present information in a more nuanced and compelling manner, making your work stand out and resonate more deeply with your readers or listeners. Let’s delve into the world of alternative phrases to “research shows” and discover how to use them effectively.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Definition and Context
3. Structural Breakdown
4. Types and Categories of Alternatives
   • Reporting Verbs
   • Attributive Phrases
   • Nominalizations
   • Modal Verbs
   • Impersonal Constructions
5. Examples
   • Reporting Verbs Examples
   • Attributive Phrases Examples
   • Nominalizations Examples
   • Modal Verbs Examples
   • Impersonal Constructions Examples
6. Usage Rules
7. Common Mistakes
8. Practice Exercises
9. Advanced Topics
10. FAQ
11. Conclusion

Definition and Context

The phrase “research shows” is a common way to introduce findings or results obtained through systematic investigation. It signals that the information presented is based on empirical evidence and not mere opinion or speculation.

While straightforward and easily understood, its frequent repetition can lead to stylistic monotony. Therefore, it is essential to explore alternative ways to express similar meanings while maintaining accuracy and clarity.

In academic writing, it is particularly important to use precise language to convey the strength and nature of the evidence. Different phrases can suggest varying degrees of certainty, methodological rigor, or interpretative perspective.

Choosing the most appropriate alternative allows you to present your research findings in a nuanced and impactful way. The context of the research, the intended audience, and the specific findings all influence the best alternative to use.

Understanding the nuances of each alternative phrase will help you to communicate your research more effectively.

Structural Breakdown

The basic structure “research shows” typically follows a subject-verb-object pattern, where “research” functions as the subject, “shows” as the verb, and the finding or result as the object (often introduced by “that”). Alternatives often maintain this basic structure but replace the verb “shows” with a more descriptive or precise verb.

For instance, “Research indicates that…” follows the same pattern but uses a different verb to convey a similar meaning.

Other alternatives might involve restructuring the sentence entirely. Instead of directly stating what the research shows, you could focus on the researchers, the methodology, or the implications of the findings.

For example, “The study revealed…” shifts the focus from the general concept of research to the specific study conducted. Similarly, “These findings suggest…” emphasizes the interpretative aspect of the results.

The choice of structure depends on the specific message you want to convey and the desired level of formality. By understanding the underlying structure, you can effectively manipulate the sentence to highlight different aspects of the research and create a more engaging and informative presentation.

Types and Categories of Alternatives

There are several categories of alternatives to “research shows,” each with its own nuances and applications. These include reporting verbs, attributive phrases, nominalizations, modal verbs, and impersonal constructions.

Understanding these categories allows you to choose the most appropriate alternative based on the context and the specific message you want to convey.

Reporting Verbs

Reporting verbs are verbs that introduce reported speech or findings. They are a direct replacement for the verb “shows” and can add nuance to the way you present the research results. Common reporting verbs include indicates, suggests, demonstrates, reveals, confirms, supports, finds, observes, notes, argues, concludes, and establishes. The choice of verb can reflect the strength of the evidence and the certainty of the findings. For example, “Research confirms” suggests a higher degree of certainty than “Research suggests.”

Attributive Phrases

Attributive phrases attribute the findings to a specific source or study. These phrases often include the name of the researcher or the journal in which the study was published.

Examples include “According to [Researcher’s Name],” “[Journal Name] reports that,” or “In their study, [Researchers] found that.” These phrases add credibility to the findings and provide context for the reader.

Nominalizations

Nominalizations are nouns formed from verbs or adjectives. They can be used to rephrase sentences and shift the emphasis from the action of “showing” to the findings themselves. Examples include “An analysis of the data,” “The investigation revealed,” or “The evidence suggests.” Nominalizations often create a more formal and objective tone.

Modal Verbs

Modal verbs express possibility, necessity, or certainty. They can be used to qualify the findings and indicate the degree of confidence in the results. Common modal verbs include may, might, could, can, and must. For example, “The findings may indicate” suggests a possibility, while “The findings must indicate” suggests a stronger conclusion.

Impersonal Constructions

Impersonal constructions avoid explicitly stating who is performing the action. They often use phrases like “It is found that,” “It is observed that,” or “It is clear that.” These constructions create a more objective and detached tone, emphasizing the findings themselves rather than the researchers who discovered them.

Examples

This section provides extensive examples of alternative phrases to “research shows,” organized by category. Each category includes a table with multiple examples to illustrate the different ways these phrases can be used in context.

These examples will help you understand the nuances of each alternative and choose the most appropriate one for your specific needs.

Reporting Verbs Examples

The following table provides examples of sentences using various reporting verbs instead of “research shows.” Each example demonstrates how the choice of verb can subtly alter the meaning and impact of the sentence. Notice how some verbs convey stronger certainty than others.

Reporting Verb	Example Sentence
Indicates	Research indicates that regular exercise improves cognitive function.
Suggests	The study suggests a correlation between sleep duration and academic performance.
Demonstrates	The experiment demonstrates the effectiveness of the new drug.
Reveals	The survey reveals a significant increase in customer satisfaction.
Confirms	The data confirms the initial hypothesis.
Supports	The evidence supports the claim that early intervention is crucial.
Finds	The analysis finds a strong relationship between income and education.
Observes	The study observes that participants in the treatment group showed significant improvement.
Notes	The author notes the limitations of the current research.
Argues	Smith argues that the current policies are ineffective.
Concludes	The report concludes that further investigation is needed.
Establishes	This experiment establishes a causal link between the two variables.
Highlights	The report highlights the need for increased funding in healthcare.
Identifies	The study identifies several key factors influencing consumer behavior.
Proves	While difficult to do definitively, the evidence strongly proves the theory.
Determines	The investigation determines the cause of the accident.
Clarifies	The analysis clarifies the complex relationship between these variables.
Illustrates	This case study illustrates the challenges faced by small businesses.
Indicates	The data clearly indicates a positive trend in renewable energy adoption.
Posits	The author posits that cultural factors play a significant role.
Ascertains	The research ascertains the extent of the problem.
Affirms	The results affirm the validity of the previous findings.
Assesses	The study assesses the impact of the new policy.
Corroborates	New evidence corroborates the earlier findings.
Delineates	The report delineates the key issues in the debate.
Discloses	The investigation discloses some disturbing facts.
Evidences	The increasing number of publications evidences the growing interest in the field.
Implies	The data implies a connection between these two variables.

Attributive Phrases Examples

This table showcases how to attribute findings to specific sources using various attributive phrases. These phrases add credibility and provide context for the reader.

Note the different ways to reference researchers, journals, and reports.

Attributive Phrase	Example Sentence
According to Smith (2020),	According to Smith (2020), regular meditation reduces stress levels.
In their study, Jones et al. found that	In their study, Jones et al. found that a plant-based diet improves cardiovascular health.
The Journal of Medicine reports that	The Journal of Medicine reports that a new vaccine is highly effective.
As stated in the report,	As stated in the report, the economy is showing signs of recovery.
Researchers have discovered that	Researchers have discovered that the human brain is more complex than previously thought.
A recent study indicates that	A recent study indicates that climate change is accelerating.
The authors conclude that	The authors conclude that further research is needed in this area.
Dr. Lee’s research demonstrates that	Dr. Lee’s research demonstrates that early childhood education has long-term benefits.
Published in Nature, the article reveals that	Published in Nature, the article reveals that a new species of bacteria has been discovered.
The government report suggests that	The government report suggests that investment in infrastructure is essential.
Experts in the field have noted that	Experts in the field have noted that the technology is rapidly evolving.
Recent findings suggest that	Recent findings suggest that the problem is more widespread than initially believed.
Analyses performed by XZY Corporation indicate that	Analyses performed by XZY Corporation indicate that sales have increased dramatically.
A groundbreaking study by Professor Davis reveals that	A groundbreaking study by Professor Davis reveals that a new treatment for cancer is promising.
According to data from the World Bank,	According to data from the World Bank, poverty rates are declining globally.
Based on observations made by Thompson,	Based on observations made by Thompson, animal behavior is influenced by environmental factors.
The consensus among scientists is that	The consensus among scientists is that global warming is a serious threat.
As highlighted in the latest IPCC report,	As highlighted in the latest IPCC report, the effects of climate change are becoming more severe.
Findings presented at the conference suggest that	Findings presented at the conference suggest that a new approach is needed.
The research team discovered that	The research team discovered that a new enzyme is crucial for this process.
Data collected indicates that	Data collected indicates that there is a strong correlation.
Evidence gathered supports the idea that	Evidence gathered supports the idea that this phenomenon is widespread.
The investigative report reveals that	The investigative report reveals that there were serious ethical violations.
Analyses conducted by the Bureau of Statistics indicate that	Analyses conducted by the Bureau of Statistics indicate that employment rates have increased.
In his seminal work, Einstein proposed that	In his seminal work, Einstein proposed that the speed of light is constant.
The survey results suggest that	The survey results suggest that a majority of people support the policy.
The experimental evidence demonstrates that	The experimental evidence demonstrates that the new technique is effective.

Nominalizations Examples

This table illustrates the use of nominalizations to express research findings. Nominalizations can make your writing more formal and objective.

Pay attention to how the verb is transformed into a noun and how the sentence structure changes.

Nominalization	Example Sentence
Analysis	An analysis of the data reveals a significant trend.
Investigation	The investigation revealed several inconsistencies.
Evidence	The evidence suggests a link between the two factors.
Findings	The findings of the study are inconclusive.
Results	The results indicate a positive outcome.
Observation	The observation of the phenomenon led to a new theory.
Assessment	The assessment of the risks is crucial for decision-making.
Examination	The examination of the samples revealed the presence of contaminants.
Discovery	The discovery of the new species was a major breakthrough.
Demonstration	The demonstration of the technology was impressive.
Conclusion	The conclusion of the report is that more research is needed.
Determination	The determination of the cause of the failure is essential.
Evaluation	The evaluation of the program showed significant improvements.
Identification	The identification of the key issues is the first step.
Validation	The validation of the model confirms its accuracy.
Confirmation	The confirmation of the theory was a major achievement.
Recognition	The recognition of the problem is the first step towards solving it.
Realization	The realization of the potential benefits is exciting.
Revelation	The revelation of the truth was shocking.
Documentation	The documentation of the process is thorough.
Illustration	The illustration of the concept was helpful.
Ascertainment	The ascertainment of the facts is crucial.
Corroboration	The corroboration of the evidence strengthens the case.
Delineation	The delineation of the issues is clear.
Disclosure	The disclosure of the information was necessary.
Implication	The implication of the findings is significant.
Postulation	The postulation of the theory sparked debate.

Modal Verbs Examples

This table demonstrates how modal verbs can be used to express different degrees of certainty or possibility regarding research findings. Modal verbs add nuance and precision to your statements.

Modal Verb	Example Sentence
May	The findings may indicate a potential risk.
Might	The results might suggest a different interpretation.
Could	The data could imply a causal relationship.
Can	This approach can lead to improved outcomes.
Must	The evidence must indicate a serious problem.
Should	The researchers should consider alternative explanations.
Would	This method would likely produce similar results.
Will	Further investigation will likely confirm these findings.
Can	This technique can be used to address the issue.
Should	These results should be interpreted with caution.
Could	The observed effects could be attributed to other factors.
May	The study may have been influenced by bias.
Might	The intervention might not be effective for all patients.
Must	The observed pattern must have a logical explanation.
Will	Further research will be needed to validate these results.
Would	This approach would be useful in a different context.
Can	The technology can provide valuable insights.
Should	The findings should be replicated by other researchers.
Could	The observed differences could be due to chance.
May	The sample size may have affected the results.
Might	The treatment might have side effects.
Must	There must be a reason for this discrepancy.
Will	These findings will have significant implications.
Would	The alternative method would be more costly.
Can	The data can be analyzed in different ways.
Should	The limitations of the study should be acknowledged.

Impersonal Constructions Examples

This table provides examples of impersonal constructions, which avoid explicitly stating who is performing the action. These constructions create a more objective and detached tone.

Impersonal Construction	Example Sentence
It is found that	It is found that regular exercise improves health.
It is observed that	It is observed that the phenomenon occurs frequently.
It is clear that	It is clear that more research is needed.
It is evident that	It is evident that the situation is worsening.
It is apparent that	It is apparent that the policy is ineffective.
It is suggested that	It is suggested that the problem is widespread.
It is believed that	It is believed that the theory is correct.
It is assumed that	It is assumed that the conditions are optimal.
It is understood that	It is understood that the process is complex.
It has been shown that	It has been shown that the treatment is effective.
It has been demonstrated that	It has been demonstrated that the technology works.
It has been proven that	It has been proven that the law holds true.
It has been established that	It has been established that certain factors are critical.
It has been determined that	It has been determined that the cause was negligence.
It can be concluded that	It can be concluded that the intervention was successful.
It can be inferred that	It can be inferred that the situation is improving.
It can be seen that	It can be seen that the trend is upward.
It can be argued that	It can be argued that the approach is justified.
It seems that	It seems that the problem is more complex than initially thought.
It appears that	It appears that the situation is stabilizing.
It is likely that	It is likely that the trend will continue.
It is possible that	It is possible that other factors are involved.
It is unlikely that	It is unlikely that the problem will resolve itself.
It is noteworthy that	It is noteworthy that the findings are consistent.
It is important to note that	It is important to note that the study has limitations.
It is worth mentioning that	It is worth mentioning that the results are preliminary.

Usage Rules

When choosing an alternative to “research shows,” consider the following rules:

• Clarity: The alternative should be as clear and easy to understand as “research shows.” Avoid overly complex or ambiguous language.
• Accuracy: The alternative should accurately reflect the strength and nature of the evidence. Choose verbs and phrases that convey the appropriate level of certainty.
• Context: The alternative should be appropriate for the context. Formal academic writing may require different language than a casual presentation.
• Variety: Use a variety of alternatives to avoid repetition and maintain reader engagement.
• Audience: Consider your audience. Use language that is appropriate for their level of understanding.

It’s important to maintain a consistent tone and style throughout your writing. If you start with formal language, stick with it.

Similarly, if you’re writing for a general audience, avoid jargon and technical terms.

Common Mistakes

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using alternatives to “research shows”:

• Overstating the evidence: Avoid using strong verbs like “proves” or “establishes” if the evidence is not conclusive.
• Using ambiguous language: Ensure that the alternative is clear and unambiguous. Avoid phrases that could be misinterpreted.
• Misattributing findings: Always attribute findings to the correct source. Double-check your references and citations.
• Inconsistent tone: Maintain a consistent tone and style throughout your writing.
• Overusing one alternative: Avoid repeatedly using the same alternative phrase. Vary your language to maintain reader engagement.

Here are some examples of correct and incorrect usage:

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
Research proves that…	Research suggests that…	“Proves” implies absolute certainty, which is rare in research.
The study shows stuff.	The study reveals key findings.	“Stuff” is vague. “Key findings” is more specific and professional.
According to me, research shows…	According to Smith (2020), research shows…	Findings should be attributed to their original source, not yourself.
It is found that… (without context)	It is found that regular exercise improves health.	Impersonal constructions need context to be meaningful.

Practice Exercises

Complete the following sentences using appropriate alternatives to “research shows.”

Question	Answer
1. Recent ___________ that climate change is accelerating.	1. Recent studies indicate that climate change is accelerating.
2. __________ to Smith (2018), regular exercise improves cognitive function.	2. According to Smith (2018), regular exercise improves cognitive function.
3. The ___________ of the data reveals a significant trend.	3. The analysis of the data reveals a significant trend.
4. The findings ___________ a potential risk.	4. The findings may indicate a potential risk.
5. __________ that more research is needed.	5. It is clear that more research is needed.
6. The experiment __________ the effectiveness of the new treatment.	6. The experiment demonstrates the effectiveness of the new treatment.
7. In their study, Jones et al. __________ that a plant-based diet improves cardiovascular health.	7. In their study, Jones et al. found that a plant-based diet improves cardiovascular health.
8. The __________ suggests a link between the two factors.	8. The evidence suggests a link between the two factors.
9. The results __________ a positive outcome.	9. The results indicate a positive outcome.
10. The report __________ that further investigation is needed.	10. The report concludes that further investigation is needed.

More Challenging Exercises

Rewrite the following sentences using more sophisticated alternatives to “research shows.”

Question	Answer
1. Research shows that social media can have negative effects on mental health.	1. Studies suggest that excessive social media use is correlated with diminished mental well-being.
2. Research shows that early childhood education is beneficial.	2. Evidence supports the assertion that early childhood education yields significant long-term advantages.
3. Research shows that climate change is a serious threat.	3. The scientific consensus affirms that climate change poses a grave threat to global ecosystems.
4. Research shows that regular exercise can reduce stress.	4. Investigations reveal that consistent physical activity correlates with reduced stress levels.
5. Research shows that sleep deprivation can impair cognitive function.	5. Data indicates that insufficient sleep significantly impairs cognitive performance.
6. Research shows that a healthy diet is essential for overall well-being.	6. Empirical findings underscore the importance of a balanced diet for maintaining optimal health.
7. Research shows that technology is rapidly evolving.	7. Observations suggest that technological advancements are occurring at an accelerating pace.
8. Research shows that investment in infrastructure is crucial for economic growth.	8. Analysis suggests that strategic investments in infrastructure are essential for fostering sustained economic growth.
9. Research shows that poverty rates are declining globally.	9. Global data indicates a gradual decline in poverty rates across various regions.
10. Research shows that animal behavior is influenced by environmental factors.	10. Studies demonstrate that environmental variables significantly impact animal behavioral patterns.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, consider exploring the following topics:

• Meta-analysis: How to report the findings of a meta-analysis, which is a statistical analysis that combines the results of multiple studies.
• Systematic reviews: How to report the findings of a systematic review, which is a comprehensive review of all relevant studies on a particular topic.
• Bayesian statistics: How to use Bayesian statistics to express uncertainty and confidence in research findings.
• Qualitative research: How to report the findings of qualitative research, which often involves interviews, focus groups, and observations.
• Mixed methods research: How to integrate the findings of quantitative and qualitative research.

Understanding these advanced topics will allow you to communicate research findings with even greater precision and sophistication. It will also help you critically evaluate the research of others.

FAQ

1. Q: Why is it important to use alternatives to “research shows”?
2. A: Using alternatives to “research shows” makes your writing more engaging, precise, and sophisticated. It also helps you to avoid repetition and maintain reader interest.
3. Q: How do I choose the best alternative phrase?
4. A: Consider the context, the strength of the evidence, your audience, and the specific message you want to convey. Choose a phrase that accurately reflects the research findings and is appropriate for your intended audience.
5. Q: What is the difference between “suggests” and “demonstrates”?
6. A: “Suggests” implies a possibility or indication, while “demonstrates” implies a stronger level of evidence and certainty. Use “demonstrates” when the evidence is conclusive and “suggests” when the evidence is less definitive.
7. Q: How can I avoid overstating the evidence?
8.