Introduction

There are many synonyms for the verbs ‘say’ and ‘show’ but not all of them are suitable for use in academic writing.

When looking at different verbs that mean ‘say’ and ‘show’, there are subtle differences in meaning – so it’s important to think about how we can use each word.

Here are some useful verbs for ‘saying’ and ‘showing’ that you might see in academic articles. Many of them have multiple meanings in non-academic settings, but here we’ll look at how they’d be used in academic writing.

Firstly, we can use these phrases to talk about things that have been believed or accepted (often for a long time):

• It is well-established that…
• It has long been held that…
• It is well-documented that…
• It is universally acknowledged/accepted that…

Language for ‘saying’

To suggest (meaning: to give an idea for others to think about)

The report tentatively suggests that mismanagement of public funds could be the root of the problem.

To suggest is often used with the following adverbs to give more information: initially, originally, tentatively, gently, strongly, rightly, wrongly

To report (meaning: to give information about something that has happened  – often in an official document produced after careful study of a specific topic)

The researchers reported a sudden fluctuation in results.

To clarify (meaning: to explain something so that it is clearer and easier to understand)

It is necessary to clarify what impact the change in material will have on the product’s durability.

To clarify is often used with the following adverbs to give more information: sufficiently, adequately, fully, precisely

To elucidate (meaning: to explain something and make it clearer – often by providing more information)

To elucidate the role of the nanotechnology in the process, we have provided a short animation.

To argue (meaning: to give reasons explaining why you believe something to be correct or true)

Based on the outcomes of recent independent studies, it is possible to argue that historic data is no longer reliable.

To assert (meaning: to say very strongly that you believe something is true)

Despite the large number of complaints, the manufacturer continues to assert that their product is not at fault.

You can use these adverbs with this word to give more information: firmly, repeatedly, strongly.

State (meaning: to say – particularly in a formal way)

The article clearly states that the outcomes of this treatment are not long-lasting.

You can use these adverbs with this word to give more information: clearly, specifically, consistently, accurately, incorrectly

To declare (meaning: to say something officially or publicly)

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

To maintain (meaning: to say that something is true – even when other people do not agree/believe you)

The authors maintained that the work was their own, despite multiple allegations of plagiarism.

To conclude (meaning: to say something is correct/true after considering all the available evidence)

The study concluded that the equipment was too sensitive to be used in the field.

Language for ‘showing’

To demonstrate (meaning: to show something clearly, to show something is true/correct)

In the experiment, we demonstrated the limitations of the current technology.

You can use these adverbs with this word to give more information: consistently, convincingly, successfully, effectively.

To exhibit (meaning: to show a reaction, ability or behaviour)

The test subjects exhibited no reaction to the treatment.

To present (one meaning: to offer something for others to judge or consider)

After presenting their findings at the conference, they were asked to complete two further studies on similar issues.

To present (alternative meaning: used in medical situations – when a patient shows symptoms)

Patients presenting with low blood pressure were not included in the study.

To show (meaning: to give proof that something is correct or true)

Having shown the effects on older patients, the next step is to explore how treatment affects younger patients.

You can use these adverbs with this word to give more information: previously, conclusively, clearly, consistently, repeatedly

To reveal (meaning: to show something that was not previously known)

The study reveals the inconsistencies in patient care across different regions of the same country.

You can use these adverbs with this word to give more information: clearly, plainly, methodically

Language for ‘saying’ and ‘showing’ extract

This extract from an article contains examples of some of the language covered in today’s lesson.

Today’s Quiz

Try today’s quiz below to test your understanding.