9 Synonyms for 'Shows' in an Essay with Examples

In academic writing, utilizing a varied vocabulary is essential to maintain reader engagement and convey your ideas effectively. The word shows is commonly used in essays and papers to demonstrate evidence, arguments, or findings. However, over-reliance on this term can make your writing repetitive. Here, we provide nine synonyms for 'shows' that can add variety and depth to your writing:

  1. Illustrates
  2. Demonstrates
  3. Represents
  4. Exhibits
  5. Reveals
  6. Indicates
  7. Depicts
  8. Presents
  9. Manifests

Now lets delve into each synonym with examples to understand their appropriate usage in an academic context:

1. Illustrates

To illustrate means to clarify or explain with examples or evidence. This synonym can be useful when you want to emphasize the explanatory function of your content.

Example:

The data illustrates the significant growth in the economy following the policy change, underscoring the impact of regulatory adjustments.

2. Demonstrates

Demonstrate implies proving or showing evidence that confirms an argument or hypothesis. It's typically used in contexts where the relationship or causation between elements is clear.

Example:

This study demonstrates the efficacy of the new teaching methodology through improved student outcomes.

3. Represents

Represents involves serving as a sign or symbol of something, often used when discussing symbols, figures, or abstract ideas.

Example:

The graph represents the decline in local wildlife populations over the past century, highlighting environmental concerns.

4. Exhibits

To exhibit means to clearly display or make something apparent, generally used when discussing characteristics or behavior.

Example:

The experiment exhibits predictable patterns of chemical reactions under varying conditions.

5. Reveals

Reveal suggests uncovering or making something previously hidden known, and it's effective for discussing findings or disclosures.

Example:

The findings reveal a surprising correlation between diet and cognitive function.

6. Indicates

Indicate implies pointing out or presenting an underlying fact or trend, often used for data and statistics interpretation.

Example:

The survey results indicate a growing dissatisfaction with current political leadership.

7. Depicts

Depict means to describe or portray something in a detailed manner, often used in describing artistic or narrative styles.

Example:

The novel depicts the complexities of human relationships with nuanced character development.

8. Presents

Present involves showing or offering something for others to consider, useful in formal writing and presentations.

Example:

The article presents compelling evidence supporting the theory of evolution through natural selection.

9. Manifests

Manifests refers to showing something clearly through outward or visible signs, often used when discussing emotions or broader trends.

Example:

The study manifests the societal changes resulting from technological advancements.

By using these synonyms for 'shows,' you can enhance the clarity, precision, and variety in your essay, ensuring a more engaging and professional presentation of your ideas.


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