When it comes to writing, the way you present quotes can make all the difference. Relying on repetitive phrases like “this quote shows” can make your analysis feel dull and robotic. But there’s a simple solution: diversify your language! By swapping in fresh alternatives, you can bring a new energy and clarity to your writing. Whether you’re crafting an academic essay, writing a blog post, or analyzing literature, the right expression can elevate your argument and captivate your reader.
Here, we’ll walk through 15 compelling alternatives to “this quote shows.” From “this passage reveals” to “these words convey,” these phrases will help you express your ideas with greater variety and depth.
1. This Quotation Illustrates
When you want to emphasize that a quote provides a clear example or vivid depiction of a particular idea or point, saying “this quotation illustrates” is an effective choice.
Example (Email):
Subject: Insightful Quote About Teamwork
Hi John,
I wanted to share this quote from our last meeting: “Unity is our strength.” This quotation illustrates how vital it is for us to work together as a team. It highlights the idea that the combined effort of a group can overcome individual limitations.
Best,
Rachel
2. This Excerpt Demonstrates
Using “this excerpt demonstrates” is an excellent way to indicate that the quoted portion serves as evidence or proof of a larger argument or concept.
Example (Blog Post):
In her book on personal growth, Mary writes, “Every small act of kindness creates ripples.” This excerpt demonstrates the profound impact of even the tiniest gestures, showing that kindness can set off a chain reaction that changes lives.
3. The Passage Reveals
“The passage reveals” is perfect when the quote uncovers something deeper or brings a hidden truth to light.
Example (Email):
Subject: Reflecting on Forgiveness
Hey Tim,
I thought you’d appreciate this powerful passage I found in the article: “To forgive is to set a prisoner free, and discover the prisoner was you.” The passage reveals how forgiveness is not just about letting go of grudges but also about freeing ourselves from emotional burdens.
Talk soon,
Sandy
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4. This Citation Highlights
When you want to point out that a certain quote or excerpt draws attention to something important, “this citation highlights” is a great alternative.
Example (Report):
In his speech, the politician stated, “Action speaks louder than words.” This citation highlights the emphasis on not just talking about change but actively pursuing it, a sentiment that resonates with voters who want to see tangible results.
5. These Words Underscore
If you want to emphasize the importance of a particular quote, “these words underscore” is a powerful way to add weight to the message.
Example (Essay):
Dr. Smith’s final remark, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts,” these words underscore the significance of perseverance. They stress that both achievements and setbacks are temporary—what truly matters is the determination to keep moving forward.
6. This Statement Evidences
When a quote acts as proof of a larger argument or claim, you can say, “this statement evidences.”
Example (Study Analysis):
The professor claimed, “Resilience is the key to overcoming challenges.” This statement evidences the central theme of the study, which demonstrates how persistence in the face of adversity is a critical factor for success.
7. This Excerpt Exemplifies
Use “this excerpt exemplifies” to indicate that a portion of text serves as a perfect example of a larger concept or ideal.
Example (Blog Post):
“Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” This excerpt exemplifies the idea that individual actions can have a ripple effect, encouraging others to follow suit and contribute to positive societal change.
Check out this: 15 Other Ways to Say “Join Us”
8. The Quote Delineates
When you need to show that a quote clearly defines or outlines an idea, use “the quote delineates.”
Example (Professional Presentation):
The famous quote, “Knowledge is power,” the quote delineates the essential role that information plays in shaping decisions and empowering individuals to take control of their circumstances.
9. These Lines Indicate
“Indicates” suggests that the quote points to something, often in a subtle or indirect way. It’s useful for implying rather than stating directly.
Example (Book Review):
In the novel, the character reflects, “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” These lines indicate that the key to overcoming life’s challenges is to keep pushing forward, no matter how difficult the journey becomes.
10. This Snippet Reflects
When a quote mirrors or symbolizes a broader theme or situation, “this snippet reflects” works well.
Example (Email):
Subject: Thoughts on Our Recent Project
Hi Sarah,
I came across this line in an article, “Unity is our strength.” This snippet reflects our project’s spirit, where each team member’s contribution is vital to the success of the whole initiative.
Warmly,
Megan
11. This Quotation Represents
Use “this quotation represents” to highlight that the quote embodies or stands for something larger, such as an idea, theme, or value.
Example (Classroom Discussion):
In his speech, the leader said, “Together, we are stronger.” This quotation represents the collective power of a community, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in achieving common goals.
More for you: 15 Other Ways to Say “Please Confirm Receipt of This Email”
12. These Words Convey
“Conveys” is a perfect word to use when a quote communicates a deeper or more complex emotion or idea.
Example (Personal Email):
Subject: Weekend Thoughts
Hey Paul,
I’ve been thinking about this quote: “Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.” These words convey the unpredictability of life and how we can’t always control what happens, no matter how hard we try.
Best,
Lucy
13. This Quote Depicts
When a quote offers a visual or emotional picture, “this quote depicts” is a great alternative to “shows.”
Example (Short Story Analysis):
The line, “The sunset painted the sky with shades of orange and pink,” this quote depicts the serenity and beauty of nature, evoking a calm, peaceful mood that complements the protagonist’s reflective state.
14. The Passage Explains
If the quote clarifies or elaborates on something, you can say, “the passage explains.”
Example (Newsletter):
In his book, the author explains, “Success is not about how high you have climbed, but how you make a positive difference to the world.” The passage explains that true success is measured by the impact you have on others, rather than personal achievements alone.
For your interest: 15 Other Ways to Say “Get Well Soon”
15. These Lines Clarify
When a quote makes something clearer or more understandable, “these lines clarify” works perfectly.
Example (Blog Post):
In her latest interview, the actress said, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” These lines clarify the empowering message that we are the architects of our own destinies, and we have the power to shape the future.
Table of Synonyms for “This Quote Shows”
Expression | Example Sentence |
---|---|
This quotation illustrates | This quotation illustrates the importance of perseverance in achieving success. |
This excerpt demonstrates | This excerpt demonstrates how small acts of kindness can change lives. |
The passage reveals | The passage reveals the hidden strength of forgiveness. |
This citation highlights | This citation highlights the significance of teamwork in overcoming challenges. |
These words underscore | These words underscore the need for constant self-improvement. |
This statement evidences | This statement evidences the role of resilience in personal growth. |
This excerpt exemplifies | This excerpt exemplifies the power of personal responsibility in social change. |
The quote delineates | The quote delineates the value of knowledge in empowering individuals. |
These lines indicate | These lines indicate that the path to success requires perseverance. |
This snippet reflects | This snippet reflects the profound impact of kindness on our lives. |
This quotation represents | This quotation represents the collective power of the community. |
These words convey | These words convey the emotional weight of loss and recovery. |
This quote depicts | This quote depicts the beauty of the natural world and its calming effect. |
The passage explains | The passage explains the meaning of true success and personal fulfillment. |
These lines clarify | These lines clarify the importance of taking action in the face of adversity. |
Conclusion
Incorporating varied expressions can significantly improve the way you present quotes. By avoiding repetitive phrases, you can create a more engaging and thoughtful analysis. This small change will elevate your writing and keep your audience hooked.
So, next time you’re discussing a quote, try using one of these alternatives. They’ll bring clarity and creativity to your work while keeping the reader interested.
Kyren Paul is an experienced blogger and the creative mind behind “Grammar Vibe.” With a passion for the nuances of English grammar, he brings clarity and insight to everyday language topics, making grammar accessible and engaging for readers of all levels.