Finding the right words can make business communication sound clearer, more confident, and more professional. If you often write “this shows” in emails, reports, presentations, or workplace messages, you may want a more precise alternative.
The phrase “this shows” usually means that something provides evidence, demonstrates a fact, or makes a particular point clear. While it is perfectly correct, repeating it can make professional writing sound basic or predictable. Choosing a more specific expression can help you communicate your point with greater accuracy.
This guide covers formal synonyms for this shows, including professional, polite, friendly, and email-ready alternatives. You will find examples for workplace communication, client emails, customer service, networking, reports, presentations, and everyday business writing.
Whether you need a professional way to say “this shows”, a formal alternative for a report, or a natural phrase for an email, the options below can help.
What Does “This Shows” Mean?
Literal Meaning
“This shows” means that something demonstrates, indicates, reveals, proves, or makes something clear.
For example:
“This shows that the team completed the project on time.”
The sentence means that the information or evidence demonstrates the team’s successful completion of the project.
The best synonym depends on exactly what you want to communicate.
Tone of “This Shows”
“This shows” has a neutral and straightforward tone. It works well in everyday communication, but some situations call for a more precise expression.
For example:
- This shows — neutral
- This demonstrates — professional
- This indicates — formal and analytical
- This confirms — confident and evidence-based
- This highlights — useful when emphasizing an important point
- This suggests — cautious
- This illustrates — useful when explaining an example or concept
Purpose of the Phrase
You might use “this shows” to:
- Explain evidence
- Interpret data
- Support an argument
- Point out an important result
- Explain a customer’s response
- Describe a business outcome
- Connect evidence with a conclusion
- Emphasize a particular fact
Emotional Context
“This shows” can sound positive, negative, or neutral depending on what follows it.
Positive:
“This shows how committed the team is to customer satisfaction.”
Neutral:
“This shows a change in customer behavior.”
Negative:
“This shows that we need to improve our response time.”
30 Formal Synonyms for “This Shows”
1. This Demonstrates
Tone: Professional and confident
Best use: Reports, presentations, business emails, performance reviews
“This demonstrates” is one of the strongest formal alternatives to “this shows.”
Example:
“This demonstrates our commitment to delivering high-quality service.”
Use it when the evidence clearly supports the statement.
2. This Indicates
Tone: Formal and analytical
Best use: Reports, data analysis, research, business communication
“This indicates” works particularly well when discussing facts, numbers, trends, or evidence.
Example:
“The increase in customer retention indicates that the new strategy is working.”
It sounds more analytical than “this shows.”
3. This Illustrates
Tone: Formal and explanatory
Best use: Presentations, reports, educational writing
Use “this illustrates” when something provides a clear example of an idea.
Example:
“This illustrates the importance of responding to customers promptly.”
4. This Confirms
Tone: Professional and confident
Best use: Emails, reports, business discussions
“This confirms” suggests that available information supports something already suspected or expected.
Example:
“The latest report confirms that sales have improved since January.”
Avoid using it when the evidence only suggests something rather than establishing it clearly.
5. This Highlights
Tone: Professional and engaging
Best use: Emails, reports, presentations, workplace discussions
“This highlights” is useful when you want to draw attention to an important point.
Example:
“This highlights the need for better communication between departments.”
6. This Reveals
Tone: Formal and analytical
Best use: Reports, research, investigations, data analysis
Use “this reveals” when information brings something previously unclear to light.
Example:
“The survey results reveal a growing demand for flexible work options.”
7. This Suggests
Tone: Cautious and professional
Best use: Reports, research, analysis, business emails
“This suggests” is appropriate when the evidence points toward a conclusion without proving it completely.
Example:
“The feedback suggests that customers prefer the updated design.”
This is a useful choice when you want to avoid sounding overly certain.
8. This Reflects
Tone: Professional and polished
Best use: Workplace communication, performance reviews, business reports
“This reflects” works well when something represents a quality, situation, trend, or attitude.
Example:
“This reflects our continued commitment to improving customer service.”
9. This Establishes
Tone: Formal and authoritative
Best use: Reports, formal documents, business analysis
“This establishes” suggests that evidence creates a clear basis for a conclusion.
Example:
“This establishes a clear connection between customer satisfaction and response time.”
10. This Supports
Tone: Professional and neutral
Best use: Reports, proposals, presentations
Use this phrase when evidence strengthens an argument or conclusion.
Example:
“The survey results support our decision to expand the service.”
11. This Provides Evidence That
Tone: Formal and objective
Best use: Reports, research, formal business writing
This phrase clearly connects information with supporting evidence.
Example:
“The latest figures provide evidence that customer demand is increasing.”
12. This Serves as Evidence That
Tone: Highly formal
Best use: Reports, proposals, formal correspondence
This is a strong alternative when you want to emphasize evidence.
Example:
“The successful launch serves as evidence that the new strategy can deliver results.”
13. This Demonstrates That
Tone: Professional and direct
Best use: Business emails, reports, presentations
Adding “that” allows you to introduce a complete conclusion.
Example:
“This demonstrates that our current process can handle higher demand.”
14. This Indicates That
Tone: Formal and analytical
Best use: Reports, emails, data discussions
Example:
“The results indicate that customers value faster response times.”
15. This Makes Clear That
Tone: Professional and direct
Best use: Emails, workplace communication, reports
Use this when the evidence makes a conclusion easy to understand.
Example:
“The latest feedback makes clear that customers expect more frequent updates.”
16. This Makes It Clear That
Tone: Polite and conversational-professional
Best use: Emails and workplace messages
This option sounds slightly less formal than “this establishes.”
Example:
“The recent results make it clear that we need to adjust our approach.”
17. This Points to
Tone: Professional and concise
Best use: Reports, meetings, analysis
Example:
“The data points to a significant improvement in customer engagement.”
This works particularly well when evidence suggests a direction.
18. This Points Toward
Tone: Analytical and cautious
Best use: Research, reports, strategic discussions
Example:
“The latest figures point toward stronger demand during the next quarter.”
19. This Underscores
Tone: Formal and polished
Best use: Reports, presentations, executive communication
“Underscores” means that something emphasizes or reinforces an important point.
Example:
“This underscores the importance of maintaining clear communication with clients.”
20. This Emphasizes
Tone: Professional
Best use: Presentations, reports, emails
Example:
“This emphasizes the value of providing timely customer support.”
21. This Demonstrates the Importance of
Tone: Formal and persuasive
Best use: Reports, proposals, presentations
Example:
“This demonstrates the importance of setting clear expectations from the beginning.”
22. This Serves to Demonstrate
Tone: Formal
Best use: Business reports and formal documents
Example:
“The case study serves to demonstrate the benefits of a customer-focused approach.”
This phrase is more formal than everyday workplace speech, so use it selectively.
23. This Provides a Clear Indication That
Tone: Highly professional
Best use: Reports, analysis, formal emails
Example:
“The latest survey provides a clear indication that customer expectations have changed.”
24. This Is Indicative of
Tone: Formal and analytical
Best use: Reports, research, executive writing
Example:
“The increase in repeat purchases is indicative of stronger customer loyalty.”
This is formal but can sound less natural in casual workplace emails.
25. This Is Evidence of
Tone: Formal and objective
Best use: Reports, business analysis
Example:
“The improved retention rate is evidence of stronger customer engagement.”
26. This Reflects the Fact That
Tone: Professional
Best use: Reports, explanations, business correspondence
Example:
“This reflects the fact that customer expectations have evolved over time.”
27. This Demonstrates Our Commitment to
Tone: Professional and positive
Best use: Client emails, company communication, proposals
Example:
“This demonstrates our commitment to providing reliable support.”
28. This Highlights the Need for
Tone: Professional and action-oriented
Best use: Workplace communication, reports, management emails
Example:
“This highlights the need for additional training.”
29. This Reinforces
Tone: Professional and confident
Best use: Reports, presentations, workplace discussions
Use “this reinforces” when new information strengthens an existing idea.
Example:
“The positive customer feedback reinforces the value of our current approach.”
30. This Gives Us a Clear Indication
Tone: Professional and natural
Best use: Business emails, meetings, workplace discussions
Example:
“The latest feedback gives us a clear indication of what our customers expect.”
This is a useful choice when you want to sound professional without becoming overly formal.
Quick Comparison Table
| Alternative | Tone | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| This demonstrates | Professional | Reports and emails |
| This indicates | Formal | Data and analysis |
| This illustrates | Formal | Examples and presentations |
| This confirms | Confident | Verified information |
| This highlights | Professional | Important points |
| This reveals | Analytical | New findings |
| This suggests | Cautious | Uncertain conclusions |
| This reflects | Polished | Workplace communication |
| This establishes | Formal | Strong evidence |
| This supports | Neutral | Arguments and proposals |
| This underscores | Formal | Important conclusions |
| This emphasizes | Professional | Presentations |
| This points to | Analytical | Trends |
| This reinforces | Professional | Supporting evidence |
| This makes clear that | Direct | Emails and explanations |
| This provides evidence that | Formal | Reports |
| This is evidence of | Formal | Business analysis |
| This indicates that | Formal | Data-driven writing |
| This demonstrates that | Professional | Conclusions |
| This highlights the need for | Action-oriented | Workplace issues |
How to Use “This Shows” Alternatives Professionally
In Emails
For everyday business emails, choose natural expressions such as:
- This demonstrates…
- This indicates…
- This highlights…
- This confirms…
- This reflects…
Example:
“The positive feedback demonstrates that the new process is working well.”
Instead of:
“This shows that the new process is working well.”
Both are correct, but “demonstrates” sounds more polished.
In the Workplace
In workplace communication, clarity matters more than complicated vocabulary.
Example:
“This highlights the need for clearer communication between the two teams.”
This works well in a message to a manager or colleague.
Another option:
“The recent results indicate that we should review the current process.”
With Clients
When communicating with clients, use confident but accurate language.
Example:
“This demonstrates our commitment to meeting your requirements.”
Or:
“The results confirm that the revised process has improved turnaround times.”
Avoid making claims stronger than the evidence supports.
In Networking
Networking communication usually benefits from a friendly professional tone.
Example:
“Your experience in this area demonstrates the value of combining technical knowledge with strong communication skills.”
A simpler version might be:
“Your experience clearly highlights the importance of practical industry knowledge.”
In Customer Service
Customer-facing communication should remain clear and respectful.
Example:
“Your feedback highlights the importance of providing faster updates.”
Or:
“This feedback helps us understand where we can improve our service.”
The second option sounds especially customer-friendly.
Email Examples
1. Client Email
“The successful completion of this phase demonstrates our commitment to meeting the agreed timeline.”
This sounds professional and reassuring.
2. Email to a Manager
“The recent performance figures indicate that the new workflow has improved productivity.”
This works well when discussing measurable results.
3. Email to a Colleague
“The feedback highlights the areas we should address before the next meeting.”
This is direct without sounding harsh.
4. Customer Email
“Your comments highlight the importance of providing clearer instructions.”
This acknowledges customer feedback professionally.
5. Networking Email
“Your experience in project management demonstrates the value of strong cross-functional collaboration.”
This works well when discussing someone’s professional background.
6. Meeting Follow-Up
“Our discussion highlighted the need to establish clearer responsibilities for the next stage.”
This is a natural way to summarize a meeting outcome.
Common Mistakes When Replacing “This Shows”
1. Choosing a Synonym That Is Too Strong
Not every piece of evidence proves something.
For example:
“The survey suggests that customers prefer the new design.”
is more accurate than:
“The survey proves that customers prefer the new design.”
Use suggests when the evidence is limited.
2. Using “Confirms” Without Confirmation
“Confirms” implies that the information validates something.
If the evidence only points toward a possibility, use:
“This suggests…”
rather than:
“This confirms…”
3. Making Every Sentence Formal
Professional communication does not require complicated vocabulary.
Instead of writing:
“This provides a clear indication that our organizational framework requires modification.”
you could simply write:
“This indicates that we need to change our current process.”
Clear writing usually works better.
4. Repeating the Same Alternative
Replacing “this shows” with “this demonstrates” in every paragraph does not solve repetition.
Mix your wording:
- This indicates…
- This highlights…
- This suggests…
- This reflects…
- This demonstrates…
Choose based on meaning rather than simply looking for a synonym.
5. Ignoring the Evidence
The verb should match the strength of your evidence.
| Evidence Strength | Useful Phrase |
|---|---|
| Strong | This confirms |
| Strong | This establishes |
| Clear | This demonstrates |
| Moderate | This indicates |
| Possible | This suggests |
| Emphasis | This highlights |
| Representation | This reflects |
This approach makes your professional communication more precise.
Related Business Phrases
Here are 15 useful expressions related to “this shows”:
1. This demonstrates
Means the evidence clearly supports a point.
“This demonstrates our commitment to quality.”
2. This indicates
Means the evidence points toward a conclusion.
“This indicates a change in customer demand.”
3. This suggests
Means the evidence gives you a reasonable possibility.
“This suggests that customers value convenience.”
4. This confirms
Means the information validates something.
“This confirms the original findings.”
5. This highlights
Means the information draws attention to something.
“This highlights the need for better planning.”
6. This reflects
Means the information represents a situation or quality.
“This reflects our focus on customer service.”
7. This reinforces
Means the information strengthens an existing idea.
“This reinforces the importance of teamwork.”
8. This underscores
Means the information strongly emphasizes a point.
“This underscores the need for timely action.”
9. This illustrates
Means the information provides an example.
“This illustrates the benefits of early planning.”
10. This reveals
Means the information makes something previously unclear visible.
“The research reveals a significant trend.”
11. This supports
Means the evidence strengthens a conclusion.
“The results support our recommendation.”
12. This establishes
Means the evidence creates a firm basis for something.
“This establishes a clear link between the two factors.”
13. This points to
Means the evidence suggests a direction or conclusion.
“The data points to a gradual improvement.”
14. This makes clear that
Means the evidence makes something easier to understand.
“The results make clear that customers expect faster responses.”
15. This provides evidence that
Means the information supports a particular conclusion.
“The survey provides evidence that the new policy is effective.”
“This Shows” vs. Professional Alternatives
| Phrase | Formality | Tone | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| This shows | Neutral | Simple | General communication |
| This demonstrates | High | Confident | Business writing |
| This indicates | High | Analytical | Reports and data |
| This suggests | Medium-high | Cautious | Analysis |
| This confirms | High | Certain | Verified findings |
| This highlights | Medium-high | Emphatic | Important points |
| This reflects | Medium-high | Polished | Workplace writing |
| This illustrates | High | Explanatory | Examples |
| This reinforces | High | Confident | Supporting ideas |
| This underscores | High | Emphatic | Formal reports |
| This reveals | High | Analytical | Findings |
| This supports | Medium-high | Neutral | Proposals and arguments |
| This establishes | High | Authoritative | Strong evidence |
Which One Should You Choose?
The best formal alternative to “this shows” depends on what you mean.
Use “this demonstrates” when something clearly proves or displays a quality.
Use “this indicates” when discussing data or evidence.
Use “this suggests” when you want to remain cautious.
Use “this confirms” when the evidence verifies something.
Use “this highlights” when you want to emphasize an important issue.
Use “this reflects” when something represents a broader quality or situation.
Use “this illustrates” when you are giving an example.
Cultural and Professional Usage
US English
In American business communication, direct and clear expressions such as “this demonstrates,” “this indicates,” “this highlights,” and “this confirms” work well.
Business emails generally favor concise language.
Example:
“The results indicate that we should revise the current process.”
UK English
British professional communication also commonly uses expressions such as:
- This demonstrates
- This indicates
- This highlights
- This suggests
- This reflects
The main difference usually comes from broader differences in business style rather than the phrase itself. In more formal British writing, expressions such as “this illustrates” and “this underscores” may fit naturally.
Corporate Communication
Corporate writing often needs precise language because employees may use statements in reports, presentations, and official documents.
For example:
“The latest figures demonstrate the effectiveness of the revised strategy.”
This sounds more precise than repeatedly saying:
“The latest figures show the effectiveness…”
Customer Service
Customer service writing should remain professional without sounding overly academic.
Instead of:
“This evidences our commitment to your satisfaction.”
a more natural option is:
“This demonstrates our commitment to your satisfaction.”
Clear, familiar language usually creates a better customer experience.
Networking
Networking communication benefits from warmth and professionalism.
Instead of:
“This shows you have excellent leadership skills.”
consider:
“This demonstrates your strong leadership experience.”
The second version sounds more polished while remaining positive.
FAQs About Formal Synonyms for “This Shows”
1. What is a professional way to say “this shows”?
The most useful professional alternatives include “this demonstrates,” “this indicates,” “this highlights,” “this confirms,” and “this reflects.” Choose the phrase based on the strength and purpose of your evidence.
2. What is a formal alternative to “this shows”?
“This demonstrates” is one of the most natural formal alternatives. Other choices include “this indicates,” “this establishes,” “this illustrates,” and “this provides evidence that.”
3. What is another word for “shows” in business writing?
Depending on the context, you can use demonstrates, indicates, illustrates, confirms, highlights, reveals, reflects, suggests, establishes, or supports.
4. Is “this demonstrates” more formal than “this shows”?
Yes. “This demonstrates” generally sounds more polished and professional than “this shows,” although both phrases are grammatically correct.
5. Can I use “this indicates” in an email?
Yes. “This indicates” works well in professional emails, especially when discussing data, results, trends, or evidence.
Example:
“The latest figures indicate that we are on track to meet our target.”
6. Is “this suggests” formal?
Yes. “This suggests” is professional and particularly useful when you do not want to make an overly certain claim.
7. What is the best alternative to “this shows” in a report?
“This demonstrates,” “this indicates,” “this suggests,” and “this establishes” are strong choices. The correct option depends on how certain the evidence is.
8. What should I use instead of “this shows” in a formal email?
Try:
- This demonstrates…
- This indicates…
- This highlights…
- This confirms…
- This reflects…
For most business emails, “this demonstrates” and “this indicates” sound natural and professional.
9. What is a polite alternative to “this shows”?
“This highlights” and “this reflects” can sound polite and neutral.
For example:
“This highlights the importance of keeping our clients informed.”
10. Can “this shows” sound unprofessional?
Not necessarily. “This shows” is grammatically correct and widely understood. However, repeated use can make formal writing sound less varied or precise. A more specific verb can make your message stronger and clearer.
Final Summary
The phrase “this shows” is simple, correct, and useful, but professional writing often benefits from more precise alternatives. “This demonstrates” works well when evidence clearly supports a conclusion, while “this indicates” suits data and analysis. Use “this suggests” for cautious conclusions, “this confirms” for verified information, “this highlights” for important points, and “this reflects” when describing what something represents.
For formal reports, consider “this establishes,” “this underscores,” or “this provides evidence that.” For everyday business emails, choose natural expressions that keep your message clear. The strongest business email phrases are not always the most complicated—they are the ones that accurately match your meaning, tone, and audience.
