Ever find yourself stuck in a rut, using the same old phrase to introduce quotes? You’re not alone. “This quote shows” is a classic go-to, but it can get stale fast. Let’s shake things up and explore some fresh alternatives that’ll make your writing pop.
Think about it. When you’re reading an essay or article, don’t you perk up when the author uses an unexpected turn of phrase? It’s like a little jolt of caffeine for your brain. That’s what we’re aiming for here – to keep your readers on their toes and engaged with your words.
Is It Professionally Good to Use “This Quote Shows”?
Now, you might be wondering if it’s okay to ditch “this quote shows” in professional writing. The short answer? Absolutely. In fact, mixing up your language can make your work sound more polished and thoughtful. It shows you’ve put effort into your word choice, which readers (and bosses) appreciate.
But here’s the catch – you’ve got to use these alternatives thoughtfully. Don’t just swap in a fancy phrase for the sake of it. Make sure it fits the tone and context of your writing. After all, the goal is to sound natural, not like you swallowed a thesaurus.
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20 Ways to Say “This Quote Shows”
- The Quotation Illustrates
- This Excerpt Demonstrates
- This Passage Reveals
- This Citation Highlights
- These Words Underscore
- This Statement Evidences
- This Excerpt Exemplifies
- This Quote Delineates
- These Lines Indicate
- This Snippet Reflects
- This excerpt encapsulates
- The quote epitomizes
- This passage illuminates
- The citation underscores
- These words crystallize
- The snippet captures
- This statement elucidates
- The quote depicts
- This excerpt conveys
- The passage articulates
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1. The Quotation Illustrates
When you want to paint a picture with words, “the quotation illustrates” is your go-to phrase. It’s like saying, “Hey, check out this verbal snapshot!”
Example in a Literary Analysis
“In ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ the quotation illustrates Scout’s growing understanding of injustice: ‘I think there’s just one kind of folks. Folks.’ This simple statement reveals her dawning realization that artificial barriers between people are just that – artificial.”
Example in a Business Email
Subject: Team Culture Insight
Hi Sarah,
I wanted to share a comment from our latest employee survey. The quotation illustrates the positive impact of our recent team-building efforts:
“I feel more connected to my colleagues now. It’s like we’re not just coworkers, but a real team.”
This feedback suggests our investments in team cohesion are paying off.
Best, Alex
2. This Excerpt Demonstrates
When you want to zoom in on a specific part of a larger text, “this excerpt demonstrates” is your best friend. It’s like using a magnifying glass to focus on a key detail.
Example in a Movie Review
“In ‘The Godfather,’ this excerpt demonstrates Michael Corleone’s transformation into a ruthless leader: ‘It’s not personal, Sonny. It’s strictly business.’ These cold words showcase his embrace of the family’s criminal empire.”
Example in a Research Paper
“Darwin’s theory of evolution wasn’t immediately accepted. This excerpt demonstrates the initial skepticism he faced:
‘When we descend to details, we can prove that no one species has changed… nor can we prove that the supposed changes are beneficial, which is the groundwork of the theory.’
This criticism from Louis Agassiz highlights the uphill battle Darwin’s ideas initially faced.”
3. This Passage Reveals
When you want to uncover something hidden or not immediately obvious, “this passage reveals” is your secret weapon. It’s like you’re lifting a curtain to show what’s backstage.
Example in a Historical Analysis
“While many view the American Revolution as a unified effort, this passage reveals the internal conflicts:
‘There were, at least, two parties in Congress, very nearly of equal strength — the one attached to state rights and local interests, the other advocating a strong central government.’
This excerpt from John Marshall’s writings shows that the birth of the United States was far from a smooth process.”
Example in a Character Analysis
“In ‘Pride and Prejudice,’ this passage reveals Elizabeth Bennet’s growing affection for Mr. Darcy:
‘She began now to comprehend that he was exactly the man who, in disposition and talents, would most suit her.’
Here, we see Elizabeth’s prejudice melting away, replaced by a deeper understanding and appreciation of Darcy’s character.”
4. This Citation Highlights
When you want to emphasize a key point or bring attention to an important idea, “this citation highlights” is your spotlight. It’s like you’re saying, “Hey, pay extra attention to this part!”
Example in an Academic Paper
“The impact of social media on mental health has been a topic of increasing concern. This citation highlights the gravity of the situation:
‘A 2018 British study tied social media use to decreased, disrupted, and delayed sleep, which is associated with depression, memory loss, and poor academic performance.’
This finding underscores the need for further research and potential interventions.”
Example in a Company Newsletter
“Our commitment to sustainability isn’t just talk. This citation highlights our progress:
‘In the past year, our company has reduced its carbon footprint by 30%, surpassing our initial goal of 20%.’
This achievement reflects our dedication to environmental responsibility and sets a new benchmark for our future efforts.”
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5. These Words Underscore
When you want to reinforce a point or draw attention to the fundamental essence of an idea, “these words underscore” is your go-to phrase. It’s like you’re drawing a line under the most important part of a sentence.
Example in a Political Speech
“In his farewell address, President Eisenhower warned of the military-industrial complex. These words underscore his concern:
‘We must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military-industrial complex.’
This caution remains relevant in today’s geopolitical landscape.”
Example in a Book Review
“In ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ Atticus Finch’s words to his daughter Scout resonate beyond the pages. These words underscore the novel’s central theme:
‘You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.’
Harper Lee’s emphasis on empathy and understanding continues to touch readers decades after publication.”
6. This Statement Evidences
When you want to provide proof or support for an argument, “this statement evidences” is your solid ground. It’s like you’re presenting a piece of evidence in a courtroom.
Example in a Scientific Paper
“The impact of climate change on marine ecosystems is becoming increasingly apparent. This statement evidences the urgency of the situation:
‘Coral reefs are projected to decline by a further 70–90% at 1.5°C warming, with larger losses (>99%) at 2°C warming.’
This projection from the IPCC report underscores the critical need for immediate action to mitigate climate change.”
Example in a Performance Review
“Jane’s contributions to the team have been exceptional this year. This statement evidences her impact:
‘Jane’s innovative approach to client onboarding has reduced our processing time by 40%, resulting in significantly improved customer satisfaction scores.’
This achievement demonstrates Jane’s value to our organization and her potential for future growth.”
7. This Excerpt Exemplifies
When you want to provide a perfect example of something, “this excerpt exemplifies” is your ace in the hole. It’s like saying, “If you want to know what I’m talking about, here’s the perfect example.”
Example in a Music Review
“Taylor Swift’s songwriting often blends personal experiences with universal themes. This excerpt exemplifies her skill:
‘And I can see you years from now in a bar, talking over a football game with that same big loud opinion but nobody’s listening.’
These lines from ‘All Too Well’ showcase Swift’s ability to paint vivid, relatable scenes with her lyrics.”
Example in a Business Case Study
“Amazon’s customer-centric approach has been key to its success. This excerpt exemplifies their philosophy:
‘We see our customers as invited guests to a party, and we are the hosts. It’s our job every day to make every important aspect of the customer experience a little bit better.’
Jeff Bezos’s words highlight the company’s unwavering focus on customer satisfaction.”
8. This Quote Delineates
When you want to define or describe something clearly, “this quote delineates” is your precision tool. It’s like drawing a clear line around an idea to separate it from others.
Example in a Legal Document
“The First Amendment protects freedom of speech, but there are limits. This quote delineates one such boundary:
‘The most stringent protection of free speech would not protect a man in falsely shouting fire in a theatre and causing a panic.’
Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes’s words clarify that freedom of speech doesn’t extend to causing immediate danger.”
Example in a Marketing Strategy Presentation
“Our brand identity is more than just a logo or slogan. This quote delineates our core values:
‘We believe in pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and always putting our customers first.’
This statement serves as a guidepost for all our marketing efforts, ensuring consistency across all channels.”
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9. These Lines Indicate
When you want to point out a trend or direction, “these lines indicate” is your compass. It’s like you’re reading a map and showing which way things are heading.
Example in a Financial Report
“Our company’s growth trajectory has been impressive. These lines indicate our upward trend:
‘Revenue has increased by 15% year-over-year for the past five consecutive quarters, with profit margins expanding from 10% to 15% in the same period.’
This data suggests our strategic initiatives are yielding positive results.”
Example in a Literary Analysis
“In ‘The Great Gatsby,’ Fitzgerald’s description of the green light is laden with symbolism. These lines indicate its significance:
‘Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that’s no matter—tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther….’
The green light represents Gatsby’s dreams and the elusive nature of the American Dream itself.”
10. This Snippet Reflects
When you want to show how a small piece captures a bigger picture, “this snippet reflects” is your mirror. It’s like holding up a shard of a broken mirror – even in that small piece, you can see a reflection of the whole room.
Example in a Film Critique
“Christopher Nolan’s ‘Inception’ is a mind-bending exploration of reality and dreams. This snippet reflects the film’s central question:
‘An idea is like a virus. Resilient. Highly contagious. And even the smallest seed of an idea can grow. It can grow to define or destroy you.’
These lines encapsulate the power and danger of ideas that the film grapples with throughout its narrative.”
Example in a Tech Blog Post
“The rapid evolution of AI is both exciting and concerning. This snippet reflects the current debate:
‘The development of full artificial intelligence could spell the end of the human race.’
Stephen Hawking’s warning highlights the potential risks associated with unchecked AI advancement, a topic hotly debated in tech circles.”
11. This Excerpt Encapsulates
When you want to show how a small piece captures the essence of a larger idea, “this excerpt encapsulates” is your go-to phrase. It’s like distilling a complex concept into a single, potent drop.
Example in a Philosophy Essay
“Existentialism’s core tenets can be difficult to grasp, but this excerpt encapsulates its essence:
‘Man is nothing else but what he makes of himself.’
Jean-Paul Sartre’s words highlight the fundamental existentialist belief in radical freedom and self-creation.”
Example in a Company Vision Statement
“Our commitment to innovation isn’t just about technology. This excerpt encapsulates our broader mission:
‘We’re here to put a dent in the universe. Otherwise, why else even be here?’
Steve Jobs’ iconic statement reflects our ambition to make a lasting impact on the world through our products and services.”
12. The Quote Epitomizes
When you want to show that something is a perfect example or embodiment of an idea, “the quote epitomizes” is your ideal choice. It’s like pointing to the quintessential example of a concept.
Example in a Political Science Paper
“The idea of civil disobedience has a long history, but the quote epitomizes its modern conception:
‘One has a moral responsibility to disobey unjust laws.’
Martin Luther King Jr.’s words capture the essence of peaceful resistance against systemic injustice.”
Example in a Tech Industry Analysis
“The rapid pace of technological change can be dizzying. The quote epitomizes this reality:
‘We always overestimate the change that will occur in the next two years and underestimate the change that will occur in the next ten.’
Bill Gates’ observation highlights the challenge of accurate long-term predictions in the tech world.”
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13. This Passage Illuminates
When you want to shed light on a complex idea or situation, “this passage illuminates” is your flashlight in the dark. It’s like suddenly turning on a light in a dim room, revealing details you couldn’t see before.
Example in a Scientific Paper
“The concept of quantum entanglement can be mind-boggling. This passage illuminates its strange nature:
‘I cannot seriously believe in [quantum theory] because it cannot be reconciled with the idea that physics should represent a reality in time and space, free from spooky actions at a distance.’
Einstein’s words, while expressing skepticism, highlight the counterintuitive aspects of quantum mechanics that continue to challenge our understanding of reality.”
Example in a Historical Analysis
“The motivations behind the French Revolution were complex. This passage illuminates one key factor:
‘Let them eat cake.’
While likely apocryphal, this quote attributed to Marie Antoinette reflects the perceived disconnect between the ruling class and the common people, which fueled revolutionary sentiments.”
14. The Citation Underscores
When you want to emphasize or reinforce a point, “the citation underscores” is your highlighter. It’s like drawing a bold line under the most crucial part of an argument.
Example in an Environmental Report
“The urgency of climate action cannot be overstated. The citation underscores this reality:
‘We are the first generation to feel the effect of climate change and the last generation who can do something about it.’
Barack Obama’s statement emphasizes the critical timing of our current environmental challenges.”
Example in a Gender Studies Paper
“The struggle for gender equality has made progress, but challenges remain. The citation underscores this ongoing battle:
‘No country in the world can yet say they have achieved gender equality.’
This assertion from UN Women highlights the universal nature of gender disparity and the work still to be done.”
15. These Words Crystallize
When you want to express how an idea becomes clear and defined, “these words crystallize” is your clarifying agent. It’s like watching sugar solution form into clear, defined crystals.
Example in a Philosophical Debate
“The nature of knowledge has been debated for centuries. These words crystallize a key epistemological stance:
‘I think, therefore I am.’
Descartes’ famous statement distills the foundation of rationalist philosophy, asserting the certainty of one’s own existence through the act of thinking.”
Example in a Leadership Seminar
“Effective leadership often comes down to inspiration. These words crystallize this concept:
‘Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.’
Peter Drucker’s distinction clarifies the essential difference between management and leadership, emphasizing the visionary aspect of leading.”
16. The Snippet Captures
When you want to show how a small piece of text embodies a larger idea, “the snippet captures” is your snapshot. It’s like taking a photo that perfectly encapsulates a moment or feeling.
Example in a Psychology Textbook
“The complexity of human motivation is a central theme in psychology. The snippet captures this idea succinctly:
‘People don’t buy products; they buy better versions of themselves.’
This marketing insight reflects the deeper psychological drivers behind consumer behavior.”
Example in a Sports Commentary
“The essence of teamwork in sports goes beyond individual talent. The snippet captures this philosophy:
‘Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.’
Michael Jordan’s words highlight the crucial role of collaboration in achieving the highest levels of success in sports.”
17. This Statement Elucidates
When you want to explain or clarify a complex idea, “this statement elucidates” is your explainer-in-chief. It’s like turning on a powerful searchlight to illuminate every corner of a concept.
Example in a Quantum Physics Lecture
“The counterintuitive nature of quantum mechanics challenges our everyday understanding. This statement elucidates one of its key principles:
‘Everything we call real is made of things that cannot be regarded as real.’
Niels Bohr’s words shed light on the paradoxical nature of quantum reality, where particles exist in multiple states until observed.”
Example in a Social Media Marketing Guide
“The power of social media lies in its ability to foster connections. This statement elucidates the core strategy:
‘Social media is about the people! Not about your business. Provide for the people and the people will provide for you.’
Matt Goulart’s insight clarifies the user-centric approach necessary for successful social media marketing.”
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18. The Quote Depicts
When you want to paint a vivid picture with words, “the quote depicts” is your verbal paintbrush. It’s like creating a detailed illustration using only language.
Example in a Travel Blog
“The allure of travel lies in its ability to transform us. The quote depicts this transformative power:
‘Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.’
Mark Twain’s words paint a picture of the broadening effect that exposure to different cultures and perspectives can have.”
Example in an Economic Analysis
“The unpredictability of financial markets is a constant challenge. The quote depicts this reality:
‘The market can remain irrational longer than you can remain solvent.’
John Maynard Keynes’ observation illustrates the potential disconnect between market behavior and individual financial capacity.”
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19. This Excerpt Conveys
When you want to communicate an idea or feeling effectively, “this excerpt conveys” is your messenger. It’s like sending a carefully crafted letter that perfectly expresses your thoughts.
Example in a Film Studies Essay
“The power of cinema lies in its ability to evoke emotion. This excerpt conveys the medium’s potential:
‘The cinema is truth 24 frames per second.’
Jean-Luc Godard’s statement communicates the raw, unfiltered nature of film as a reflection of reality.”
20. The Passage Articulates
When you want to express an idea clearly and effectively, “the passage articulates” is your eloquent spokesperson. It’s like having a skilled orator deliver your message with precision and impact.
Example in a Political Science Dissertation
“The concept of democracy is complex and multifaceted. The passage articulates its fundamental principle:
‘Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, for the people.’
Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address expresses the essence of democratic governance, emphasizing the role of citizens in their own rule.”
Example in a Motivational Speech
“Success often requires perseverance in the face of adversity. The passage articulates this truth:
‘Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.’
Winston Churchill’s words clearly state the importance of resilience in the pursuit of one’s goals.”
Wrap-up: Elevating Your Writing
There you have it – twenty dynamic alternatives to “this quote shows.” Each option brings its own flavor to your writing, allowing you to convey nuance and maintain reader interest. Remember, the key is to use these phrases thoughtfully, matching them to the context and tone of your work.
By varying your language, you’re not just avoiding repetition; you’re enhancing clarity and engagement. You’re guiding your readers through your thoughts, helping them see the connections you’re making, and inviting them to think more deeply about the material.
So next time you’re about to write “this quote shows,” pause for a moment. Consider the point you’re trying to make. Is it illustrating an idea? Revealing a hidden truth? Providing evidence for an argument? Choose the phrase that best fits your purpose, and watch your writing come alive.
After all, good writing isn’t just about what you say – it’s about how you say it. So go ahead, give these alternatives a spin. Your readers (and your writing) will thank you for it.
Brad Hook is the insightful admin and writer who brings depth and clarity to the world of synonyms. With a talent for making words accessible and engaging, he inspires readers to expand their vocabulary and explore language’s nuances. Brad’s writing helps others communicate more effectively and creatively every day.