The Text States When writing about books, articles, or stories, we often use the phrase “the text states” to explain what the author is saying. While it’s clear and correct, repeating the same phrase can make your writing sound dull or robotic.
To make your writing more interesting and smooth, it’s helpful to use different ways to say the same thing. In this article, you’ll find 20 useful alternatives to “the text states,” along with simple examples for each one. These phrases will help your writing feel more natural, professional, and fun to read whether you’re a student or a writer.
Is It Professional to Say “the Text States”?
Using the same phrase, like “the text states,” too many times in academic writing is not considered professional. While this phrase is clear for introducing quotes or sources, repeating it constantly can make your writing sound basic and repetitive. In formal essays or research papers, your writing should reflect clarity, depth, and variety.
That’s why it’s better to use a range of academic expressions when text states referring to the source material. Phrases such as “according to the author” or “as the passage suggests” sound more advanced and help your ideas flow naturally. These alternatives improve sentence structure, enhance readability, and keep your writing interesting for the reader.
Using diverse vocabulary also helps to maintain reader engagement, especially when analyzing or summarizing a long text. While using “the text states” once in a while is fine, relying on it too much weakens the overall quality of your academic tone. Strong writing shows that the writer can integrate quotes and references smoothly.
To create high-quality academic content, you must avoid robotic patterns. Choose from a variety of synonyms and sentence starters to present your arguments with confidence. This not only boosts your professionalism but also helps in ranking your content better for educational searches and readers looking for essay writing tips.
Repetitive Example:
In the passage about sea turtles, the text states that they have lived for over 100 million years. The text states they migrate long distances to nest. The text states they face dangers from humans, like pollution. The text states six of seven turtle species are endangered.
Pros
- Clearly credits the original source
- Keeps quotes and evidence structured
Cons
- Sounds monotonous and repetitive
- Lacks variety and depth in language
What to Say Instead of “the text states”
The document asserts
The passage claims
The article articulates
The writing specifies
The section mentions
The manuscript declares
The narrative describes
The content reveals
The excerpt indicates
The piece conveys
The document asserts
“The document asserts” is a formal phrase used to show that a text is making a strong statement or taking a clear position. It suggests that the source is credible, confident, and based on solid evidence.(text states)
This phrase is often used in academic essays, research papers, or professional reports when discussing trustworthy information or well-documented studies.(text states)
Example:
In her detailed climate report, the document asserts that global temperatures have increased by 1.5°C in the last 100 years, underlining the critical need for environmental action.
The passage claims
“The passage claims” is a helpful phrase used when a specific part of a text states presents an opinion or theory that may be open to analysis or discussion. It’s often used in academic writing, especially when referring to literature, essays, or argumentative articles that express a particular belief or perspective.
This phrase is great for exploring text states subjective viewpoints or highlighting debatable ideas in a source.(text states)
Example:
In the conversation about clean energy, the passage claims that solar technology could power the entire planet, pointing to the importance of funding sustainable energy projects.
The article articulates
“The article articulates” is a strong phrase that means the writer clearly explains an idea, opinion, or fact with clarity and impact. It’s perfect for evaluating well-structured content, especially when the piece is persuasive, insightful, and logically presented.
This expression works well when referring to informative blog posts, editorials, or research-based content that communicates its message with purpose and precision.
Example:
The article articulates the importance of inclusive workplace policies, explaining that diversity boosts innovation and is essential for both ethical growth and business success.
The writing specifies
“The writing specifies” is used when a text provides clear and detailed information or instructions. This phrase is especially relevant in manuals, technical writing, or legal documents, where accuracy and clarity are essential for effective communication.
It’s ideal for contexts that require precise guidelines or step-by-step directions.
Example:
In the user manual, the writing specifies the exact procedures for operating the equipment safely, ensuring that users can follow the steps without confusion.
The section mentions
“The section mentions” is a more informal expression used when a part of the text briefly references or acknowledges an idea without going into deep detail. It’s ideal for highlighting when a topic or concept is introduced in a wider discussion.
This phrase is commonly used when overviewing subjects or touching on relevant points without extensive elaboration.
Example:
In the overview of sustainable farming, the section mentions the importance of organic farming in enhancing soil quality and promoting biodiversity, but it doesn’t explore the topic in depth.
The manuscript declares
“The manuscript declares” is a formal expression that conveys a strong statement or announcement in a document, often used to emphasize important findings, proclamations, or key declarations in academic or literary works.
This phrase is typically used when the text makes a definitive statement that carries weight and significance in the context of the narrative or research.
Example:
In his latest novel, the manuscript declares the protagonist’s unshakable determination to face challenges, setting up a powerful story about resilience and overcoming adversity.
The narrative describes
“The narrative describes” is a phrase that indicates the story or account provides vivid, detailed imagery, offering a comprehensive portrayal of events, settings, or characters. It’s especially useful in literary analysis or when discussing storytelling techniques.
This expression is perfect for when a text offers rich descriptions that allow readers to immerse themselves in the scene or plot.
Example:
The narrative describes the bustling streets of Paris in the 1920s with such clarity that readers feel like they are walking through the city, absorbing its dynamic culture and energetic atmosphere.
The content reveals
“The content reveals” suggests that the text unveils or exposes information, often shedding light on something that was not immediately visible or previously understood. It’s a powerful way to discuss insightful texts that bring new knowledge, uncover hidden truths, or highlight emerging findings.
This phrase works well when referring to documents that enlighten readers with important discoveries or critical revelations.
Example:
The Text States the documentary’s script, the content reveals, the devastating effects of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems, presenting a clear view of the environmental crisis affecting the oceans.
The excerpt indicates
“The excerpt indicates” is used when a specific part of the text suggests or points to a larger idea, theme, or conclusion. It’s helpful for highlighting evidence or clues within a document that contribute to supporting a broader argument or theoretical concept.
This expression is ideal for drawing attention to key passages that hint at deeper insights or future discussions.
Example:
The excerpt indicates that the author’s perspective on democracy was deeply shaped by his international experiences, suggesting a broader exploration of political ideologies throughout the entire work.
The piece conveys
“The piece conveys” refers to the core message or emotion that a piece of writing communicates to its audience. It’s a strong phrase for analyzing the impact, tone, or underlying themes in a work of writing.
This expression is perfect for discussing how a text elicits emotional reactions or communicates a specific atmosphere.
Example:
Through its emotional narrative, the piece conveys a profound sense of longing and nostalgia, stirring powerful emotional responses in its readers.
FAQs
What does “The document asserts” mean in academic writing?
“The document asserts” is used to make a strong statement or declaration, often conveying authoritative information or a clear viewpoint.
How can “The passage claims” be used in a literary analysis?
“The passage claims” suggests that a specific section of text presents an argument or perspective, supporting a broader interpretation of the work.
Why is “The article articulates” effective for scholarly writing?
“The article articulates” clearly expresses an idea or position, helping to highlight the main arguments or key findings within the document.
When is “The writing specifies” most useful in technical texts?
“The writing specifies” is used when providing clear instructions or detailed information, ensuring precision in manuals and guidelines.
How does “The content reveals” contribute to a deeper understanding?
“The content reveals” uncovers hidden truths or insights, offering new perspectives or key findings that drive the main argument forward.
Conclusion
In conclusion, varying the phrases you use to introduce quotes and references, like “the document asserts” or “the excerpt indicates,” can make your writing more engaging and professional. It helps avoid repetition and adds depth to your arguments, making your analysis more compelling.
By incorporating a variety of expressive phrases, you not only improve the flow of your writing but also demonstrate your linguistic versatility. This approach ensures that your work remains dynamic and keeps your audience interested, ultimately strengthening the quality of your academic or professional writing.
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