15 Other Ways to Say “The Author States”

When writing academically or professionally, citing and referencing sources is crucial to supporting your arguments. However, overusing common phrases like “the author states” can make your writing sound repetitive and less engaging. To elevate your academic or professional writing, it’s helpful to mix things up with dynamic verbs and varied attributions.

Here, we will explore 15 alternative ways to say “the author states.” We’ll provide clear examples and scenarios, helping you understand how to incorporate these phrases into your writing smoothly and effectively. By the end of this post, you’ll have a range of expressions that will make your academic papers, work emails, or even casual communications more dynamic and engaging.

1. The Author Argues

When you want to highlight that an author is defending a particular viewpoint, using “the author argues” is an excellent alternative. This phrase suggests that the author has a strong stance on the issue, often engaging with other perspectives.

Example:

In an email response discussing a recent report on sustainability, you might say:
“In her recent article, Sarah argues that businesses must adopt eco-friendly practices to remain competitive in the global market.”

This conveys a stronger sense of assertion, as the author is actively defending a position.

2. The Author Claims

If you’re introducing a point that could be controversial or open to debate, “the author claims” is a great option. This suggests that the author is asserting something that others might challenge.

Example:

In a work-related email, when discussing a new research paper on climate change, you could write:
“John claims that the increase in global temperatures is directly linked to human activities, a point that will likely spark further discussion in the scientific community.”

Here, the word “claims” signals that the statement is a point of contention.

3. The Author Suggests

When the author presents a recommendation or hints at an idea rather than stating it explicitly, “the author suggests” works well. This implies a more nuanced, less direct assertion.

Example:

In a friendly email responding to a colleague’s new project proposal, you might say:
“As outlined in the proposal, Rachel suggests that we incorporate more team feedback to refine the strategy before the launch.”

This phrase works perfectly when the author’s idea is not a command but an invitation to consider possibilities.

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4. The Author Indicates

Use “the author indicates” when you want to convey that the author subtly points toward a conclusion or observation, without fully asserting it as a fact.

Example:

In a formal email summarizing a research study, you could write:
“In his analysis of urban development, Mark indicates that the integration of green spaces could significantly improve the quality of life in crowded cities.”

Here, “indicates” shows that the author is suggesting something based on evidence but not necessarily proving it as a concrete fact.

5. The Author Proposes

When the author introduces a new idea or solution, “the author proposes” can add a tone of innovation or suggestion.

Example:

In a work email responding to a new initiative, you could write:
“Tom proposes a new scheduling system that would allow employees to manage their work hours more flexibly.”

This phrase is often used when suggesting new methods or concepts, whether in research or professional settings.

6. The Author Observes

“The author observes” is a great way to introduce a more thoughtful or reflective comment made by the author. It suggests that the author has noticed something noteworthy.

Example:

In an academic discussion of a historical event, you could say:
“In his article on the French Revolution, David observes that the social unrest was a direct result of the growing economic disparity between the classes.”

This implies the author has drawn attention to a key point through careful observation.

More for you: 15 Other Ways to Say “Sorry to Hear That”

7. The Author Notes

A simple yet effective alternative, “the author notes” works well for introducing a point or observation made in the text.

Example:

When responding to a colleague’s email on a recent meeting, you might write:
“Jane notes that the client’s concerns about the budget were valid, and we should adjust our proposal accordingly.”

This phrase is perfect when referencing specific details the author has highlighted in their writing.

8. The Author Affirms

“The author affirms” conveys a sense of certainty and confirmation. It’s a strong choice when the author is reinforcing a position or statement.

Example:

In a formal email to a client about a legal report, you might say:
“As noted in the legal brief, Michael affirms that the contract terms are in full compliance with current regulations.”

This suggests that the author is standing by their statement or conclusion with confidence.

9. The Author Declares

Use “the author declares” when you want to introduce a bold or authoritative statement. It suggests that the author is making a clear, confident assertion.

Example:

In a work email confirming a decision, you could write:
“In her closing remarks, Sarah declares that the new policy will take effect starting next quarter.”

This phrase emphasizes the decisiveness of the author’s statement.

Check out this: 15 Other Ways to Say “Thinking of You”

10. The Author Points Out

When you want to highlight something important that the author has identified, “the author points out” is a good choice. It implies that the author is bringing attention to a specific fact or argument.

Example:

In an email summarizing a meeting discussion, you might write:
“Mark points out that the team’s productivity has increased significantly since the new process was introduced.”

This highlights the importance of the observation without overstating it.

11. The Author Contends

Use “the author contends” when the author is presenting an argument that may be controversial or in opposition to other viewpoints.

Example:

In a research paper discussing a controversial theory, you might write:
“The author contends that traditional models of economics are outdated and need to be replaced with more adaptive frameworks.”

This suggests that the author is actively defending their position against opposing views.

12. The Author Emphasizes

When the author is underscoring a particular point for greater importance, “the author emphasizes” works well.

Example:

In a reply to a client’s query, you could write:
“In the proposal, John emphasizes the importance of meeting the project deadline to ensure successful outcomes.”

This phrase highlights the significance of the point being made.

13. The Author Posits

“The author posits” is often used when the author introduces a theory or hypothesis that may not yet be proven.

Example:

In an email discussing a new business model, you could write:
“Jane posits that the key to growth in the next quarter lies in expanding our digital marketing efforts.”

This shows that the author is proposing an idea for consideration, without asserting it as fact.

14. The Author Asserts

Use “the author asserts” when you want to convey that the author is making a strong, confident statement, often with a sense of authority.

Example:

In a follow-up email on a policy update, you could write:
“David asserts that the new policy will provide long-term benefits by improving employee satisfaction.”

This phrase emphasizes the strength and confidence of the author’s statement.

For your interest: 15 Other Ways to Say “As You Can See”

15. The Author Highlights

“The author highlights” is a great way to show that the author is bringing attention to something significant or important.

Example:

In a work-related email summarizing a meeting, you might write:
“Sarah highlights the fact that the budget cuts will affect the department’s ability to expand in the coming year.”

This shows that the author is drawing attention to an important issue.

Table: Synonyms for “The Author States”

Synonym	Example
The author argues	“The author argues that…”
The author claims	“The author claims that…”
The author suggests	“The author suggests that…”
The author indicates	“The author indicates that…”
The author proposes	“The author proposes that…”
The author observes	“The author observes that…”
The author notes	“The author notes that…”
The author affirms	“The author affirms that…”
The author declares	“The author declares that…”
The author points out	“The author points out that…”
The author contends	“The author contends that…”
The author emphasizes	“The author emphasizes that…”
The author posits	“The author posits that…”
The author asserts	“The author asserts that…”
The author highlights	“The author highlights that…”

Conclusion

In academic and professional writing, variety is key to maintaining reader engagement and avoiding monotonous phrasing. By using alternative expressions like “the author argues,” “the author proposes,” or “the author contends,” you can add dynamism to your writing while still giving proper attribution to your sources. These varied phrases provide not only clarity but also convey the tone and context of the argument being presented.

Next time you sit down to write, whether it’s an email, research paper, or analytical critique, try incorporating these 15 alternatives. They’ll help you communicate more effectively, adding richness and precision to your language.