When I first began teaching writing, I saw how often students used the same phrasing, so I started showing them how Other Ways to Say “The Author States” (With Examples) helps them improve tone while keeping the meaning clear. I learned that choosing bold but smooth language makes the flow warmer, even when a source feels colder or mechanical. As I reviewed countless essays, I noticed how thoughtful shifts give writing a more compassionate and academically polished style, letting students communicate ideas with more emotion, attentive choices, and naturally crafted expression.
In class, students often ask for 30 substitutes, and I enjoy showing how a single intentional switch can transform a tired sentence. When I review their work, I see how stronger phrasing emphasizes meaning without losing clarity, especially when quoting, using paraphrases, or shaping the tone of essays. Through steady practice, they learn to vary patterns, move past repetitive structures, and use dynamic verbs that add depth. My peers and professors noticed the same thing when I was a student—small, precise variations always created stronger communication, and that’s why I teach these practical habits today.
I remind students that engaging writing doesn’t require dramatic changes—just deliberate choices that make sentences clearer and more compelling. When we explore active and passive phrasing, introduce ideas in more eloquent ways, or refine statements in research papers, their work becomes less dull and more polished. Reviewing drafts together helps them avoid overused expressions, breathe fresh life into arguments, and write with styles that readers trust. I’ve watched many learners reshape paragraphs, improve discussions of sources, and grow confident enough to capture ideas accurately, even when they feel stuck, and eventually their prose shines in both formal assignments and informal conversations.
What Does “The Author States” Mean?
“The author states” is a neutral, foundational academic phrase. It signals that you’re referencing something the original writer has claimed, explained, or written. It indicates that the next thought belongs to the author—not you.
This phrase is commonly used in:
- Research papers
- Academic essays
- Book analyses
- Literature discussions
- Critical commentary
- Article summaries
Its goal is clarity. It creates a clean line between the author’s ideas and your discussion—but sometimes, it sacrifices warmth and nuance.
When to Use “The Author States”
Use “the author states” when you want to:
- Maintain academic neutrality
- Present the author’s viewpoint without interpretation
- Maintain a clear, formal tone
- Signal that the following sentence is factual or quoted
- Keep your writing consistent and unbiased
- Provide structure in summaries or analyses
It’s a helpful phrase, but not always the most expressive—especially in empathetic, narrative, or emotional contexts.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “The Author States”?
Yes — the phrase is professional, polite, and widely accepted. However, it is:
- repetitive if used too often
- stiff in emotional writing
- overly formal in personal essays
- limiting for nuanced expression
That’s why alternatives are invaluable—they help you match your tone to your message.
Did You Know?
A study in linguistic psychology shows that even small changes in phrasing can shift how readers interpret tone. Phrases like “the author emphasizes,” “the author reveals,” or “the author reflects” can influence how readers emotionally receive the message—even when summarizing the same source.
This means the phrases you choose do more than inform; they affect how people feel, understand, and relate to your writing.
“The Author States”? Synonyms
- The author explains
- The author notes
- The author suggests
- The author points out
- The author emphasizes
- The author highlights
- The author argues
- The author observes
- The author asserts
- The author mentions
- The author clarifies
- The author reveals
- The author indicates
- The author expresses
- The author implies
- The author writes
- The author shares
- The author comments
- The author outlines
- The author discusses
- The author presents
- The author illustrates
- The author explores
- The author concludes
- The author communicates
- The author portrays
- The author reflects
- The author acknowledges
- The author describes
- The author conveys
1. The Author Explains
Definition: Used when the writer makes a concept easier to understand by breaking it down clearly.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase suggests the author is taking time to offer clarity, teaching the reader or guiding them through a concept with patience. It shows that the author is not merely stating information but unpacking it thoughtfully.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author explains how emotional boundaries can strengthen relationships by reducing unspoken tension.”
- “The author explains the steps involved in rebuilding self-confidence after personal setbacks.”
Worst Use: Using this when the author did not provide deeper insight — for example, when they simply listed facts without explanation.
Tone: Supportive, guiding, patient.
2. The Author Notes
Definition: Indicates that the author makes a point that is important but not central.
Deep Explanation: This phrase adds softness. It shows that the author is making an observation rather than delivering a major argument. It feels gentle and non-intrusive.
Examples:
- “The author notes that healing often begins quietly, before anyone else notices.”
- “The author notes that simple daily rituals can help ease anxiety.”
Worst Use: Not suitable when the author is making a bold or forceful claim.
Tone: Gentle, observant, balanced.
3. The Author Suggests
Definition: Shows the author is offering a possibility rather than a firm conclusion.
Explanation: This is ideal in moments of interpretation or in emotionally sensitive discussions. It creates room for nuance and acknowledges that the author’s idea may not be absolute.
Examples:
- “The author suggests that forgiveness often becomes easier when understood as a gradual process.”
- “The author suggests that vulnerability can act as a bridge between disconnected people.”
Worst Use: Avoid when the author is stating something factual or definite.
Tone: Thoughtful, careful, soft.
4. The Author Points Out
Definition: Indicates that the author draws attention to something important.
Explanation: This phrase carries more weight than “notes.” It shows intention and purpose — the author wants the reader to notice something.
Examples:
- “The author points out that burnout often begins long before symptoms appear.”
- “The author points out that addressing emotional wounds early can prevent deeper harm later.”
Worst Use: In minor, irrelevant details.
Tone: Clear, aware, slightly assertive.
5. The Author Emphasizes
Definition: Shows the author is placing strong importance on a point.
Explanation: This signals that the information matters deeply to the author and should matter to the reader.
Examples:
- “The author emphasizes that rest is not laziness but an essential part of healing.”
- “The author emphasizes the significance of compassionate listening in conflict resolution.”
Worst Use: Overused in texts where no idea is more important than others.
Tone: Strong, purposeful.
6. The Author Highlights
Definition: Shows the writer is bringing attention to a meaningful insight.
Explanation: Warmer and softer than “emphasizes,” this phrase feels illuminating rather than forceful.
Examples:
- “The author highlights the quiet power of small, daily acts of self-kindness.”
- “The author highlights how vulnerability can deepen intimacy.”
Worst Use: When the point being highlighted is minor or irrelevant.
Tone: Warm, intentional, encouraging.
7. The Author Argues
Definition: Shows the author is presenting a strong position or viewpoint.
Explanation: This suggests persuasion. The author is not just stating — they are defending a claim.
Examples:
- “The author argues that emotional intelligence should be prioritized in modern education.”
- “The author argues that boundaries are a form of respect, not rejection.”
Worst Use: In soft or emotional writing where the tone is not argumentative.
Tone: Firm, confident, logical.
8. The Author Observes
Definition: Indicates the author witnesses or thoughtfully notices something.
Explanation: Use when the writer is presenting insight gained from reflection rather than research or analysis.
Examples:
- “The author observes that people often heal when they feel genuinely supported.”
- “The author observes that silence in relationships is often misunderstood as disinterest.”
Worst Use: For strong claims or factual statements.
Tone: Insightful, quiet, reflective.
9. The Author Asserts
Definition: Shows that the author confidently declares something.
Explanation: Stronger than “states,” suggesting firmness and authority.
Examples:
- “The author asserts that honesty is the foundation of meaningful connection.”
- “The author asserts that change is possible at any stage of life.”
Worst Use: When discussing uncertainty or emotional nuance.
Tone: Confident, strong, decisive.
10. The Author Mentions
Definition: Indicates the author briefly references something.
Explanation: Good when the point isn’t central but still necessary.
Examples:
- “The author mentions that self-compassion takes practice.”
- “The author mentions that cultural upbringing often shapes emotional expression.”
Worst Use: When the point is critical to the argument.
Tone: Light, neutral.
11. The Author Clarifies
Definition:The author clarifies means the writer is making something clearer, removing ambiguity, or refining a previously stated idea.
Detailed Explanation:This phrasing signals that the author noticed potential confusion or complexity and deliberately provided more precise wording, definitions, or examples. It’s often used when an initial statement could be misinterpreted, when specialized terms need plain-language explanations, or when contrast between similar ideas must be made explicit. Using “clarifies” shows respect for the reader’s understanding and invites attention to nuance.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author clarifies that ‘self-care’ in this context refers to consistent, small actions rather than occasional indulgences.”
- “The author clarifies that the study’s sample consisted mostly of volunteers aged 25–40, which may affect generalizability.”
Worst Use:Don’t use “clarifies” when the author merely repeats the same vague idea without adding precision. Overusing it for statements that add no real clarity dilutes its meaning and can make writing seem patronizing (as if readers were expected to be confused when they aren’t). Also avoid it where the text is speculative or ambiguous — claiming clarification can falsely suggest certainty.
Tone:Helpful, patient, precise.
12. The Author Reveals
Definition:The author reveals indicates the writer discloses new information, insight, or an unexpected perspective.
Detailed Explanation:This verb is best when the text uncovers something — a hidden pattern, a personal confession, or results of research that change how we understand the subject. “Reveals” often carries a sense of discovery or unveiling; it’s more dramatic than “states” and implies the reader is being let in on something previously unknown.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author reveals that many survivors describe their recovery as nonlinear, with progress and setbacks intertwined.”
- “The author reveals internal survey results showing a larger-than-expected number of employees experiencing burnout.”
Worst Use:Avoid “reveals” when the information is neither new nor surprising — for instance, when the author lists commonly-known facts. Overuse can create sensationalism or mislead readers into expecting a major discovery. Also be cautious in academic contexts where “reveals” may sound informal or editorialized; prefer neutral alternatives for strictly technical disclosures.
Tone:Insightful, dramatic, revealing.
13. The Author Indicates
Definition:The author indicates implies that the author’s words suggest a direction, tendency, or implication without outright stating it.
Detailed Explanation:Use this when the author provides evidence or wording that points toward a conclusion but doesn’t say it explicitly. “Indicates” is subtler than “asserts” or “states” and is excellent for scholarly writing where conclusions are derived from evidence rather than declared. It acknowledges inference and supports prudent interpretation.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author indicates that patient outcomes improve when follow-up care includes emotional support.”
- “The author indicates a correlation between early intervention and long-term recovery rates.”
Worst Use:Don’t use “indicates” to paraphrase firm conclusions or direct quotations — doing so weakens the author’s intentional assertions. Using “indicates” when the author is explicit can mischaracterize the source as tentative, which may confuse readers or misrepresent authority. Likewise, avoid it when evidence is too thin to justify even a tentative implication — false precision is misleading.
Tone:Measured, cautious, analytical.
14. The Author Expresses
Definition:The author expresses that the writer is communicating feelings, opinions, or subjective views.
Detailed Explanation:This is particularly useful in contexts where the author reveals emotion or personal stance. “Expresses” acknowledges the human voice in the text and is a good fit for reflective essays, opinion pieces, personal narratives, and journalism where the author’s affect or moral stance matters.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author expresses deep concern about policy decisions that may marginalize vulnerable communities.”
- “The author expresses gratitude toward the community that supported the research.”
Worst Use:Avoid “expresses” for neutral data points, objective descriptions, or technical findings; it can be incorrectly read as injecting emotional bias. Also, don’t use it in place of “reports” or “documents” when the author’s words are clearly factual and not emotionally charged. Mislabeling factual statements as emotional can erode credibility.
Tone:Warm, candid, reflective.
15. The Author Implies
Definition:The author implies means the writing suggests something indirectly — the idea is present but not explicitly stated.
Detailed Explanation:Use this option when you want to capture nuance: the author’s phrasing, examples, or structure hint at a conclusion or belief. “Implies” is useful for literary analysis and close reading because it honors subtlety and interpretation rather than forcing definitive claims.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author implies that readers’ unspoken expectations contribute to recurring disappointments.”
- “The author implies a tension between tradition and innovation through recurring metaphors about roots and growth.”
Worst Use:Do not use “implies” when the author explicitly writes the idea. Over-attributing implication can underplay the author’s intent or unfairly make their argument seem tentative. Additionally, don’t leap from a single ambiguous line to sweeping implications — that’s speculative and academically weak.
Tone:Nuanced, interpretive, tentative.
16. The Author Writes
Definition:The author writes is a straightforward, neutral attribution for any written claim or passage.
Detailed Explanation:This is the most neutral and flexible alternative. It’s useful across contexts — from academic reporting to casual commentary — when you simply need to point to what was written without implying tone or strength. Because it’s plain, “writes” avoids editorializing.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author writes that gradual habit change is more sustainable than dramatic overhaul.”
- “The author writes that community support played a central role in recovery.”
Worst Use:While safe, “writes” can feel bland when you want to convey the author’s emotional investment or rhetorical strategy. Overreliance may make analysis seem perfunctory. Also avoid it when a more specific verb would capture the author’s rhetorical move (e.g., “argues,” “illustrates,” “emphasizes”).
Tone:Neutral, factual, versatile.
17. The Author Shares
Definition:The author shares suggests the writer is revealing something personal or conversational — an experience, insight, or anecdote.
Detailed Explanation:This is intimate and friendly. “Shares” is ideal for essays, personal journalism, and blog-style writing in which the author’s perspective is presented as a gift to the reader. It connotes trust and willingness to be vulnerable.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author shares a personal story about learning to set boundaries with a loved one.”
- “The author shares practical steps they used to reduce everyday stress.”
Worst Use:Avoid “shares” in strictly academic or formal research contexts where personal disclosure is irrelevant or improper. Using it for impersonal data or formal conclusions can inappropriately humanize or oversimplify professional findings.
Tone:Warm, intimate, inviting.
18. The Author Comments
Definition:The author comments indicates a brief or reflective remark, often more casual than sustained argument.
Detailed Explanation:This is useful when the writer adds an aside, observation, or short opinion to a larger discussion. “Comments” suggests brevity and a conversational tone, and is good for editorial pieces, introductions, and annotated documents.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author comments that cultural differences may explain divergent responses to the policy.”
- “The author comments on the importance of routine in maintaining mental health.”
Worst Use:Don’t use “comments” for sustained arguments, empirical results, or formal claims; it understates content that deserves fuller exposition. Likewise, using it to paraphrase a dense theoretical point can make the author seem dismissive or superficial.
Tone:Casual, observant, light.
19. The Author Outlines
Definition:The author outlines means the writer presents a structured plan, list, or set of steps.
Detailed Explanation:This is excellent for descriptive, instructional, or process-oriented passages. “Outlines” suggests organization and clarity — the author is guiding the reader through components of an idea in a systematic way.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author outlines five practical steps for rebuilding trust after conflict.”
- “The author outlines a research methodology involving interviews, surveys, and observational follow-up.”
Worst Use:Avoid “outlines” when the text is anecdotal, poetic, or discursive — using it there imposes a false structure. Also don’t employ it when the author is making a single, complex argument rather than enumerating parts; “outlines” implies a checklist or roadmap that may not exist.
Tone:Organized, instructive, clear.
20. The Author Discusses
Definition:The author discusses indicates a substantive, two-sided exploration of a topic.
Detailed Explanation:This is broader than “outlines” or “notes.” “Discusses” suggests engagement with multiple facets — evidence, counterpoints, implications — and works well in analytical and reflective writing where ideas are examined rather than merely mentioned.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author discusses how social support networks influence recovery trajectories.”
- “The author discusses competing theories of motivation, weighing pros and cons for each.”
Worst Use:Do not use “discusses” for passing references or single-sentence mentions; it overstates the depth of engagement. Likewise, avoid it when the passage is prescriptive or procedural — “discusses” implies deliberation rather than instruction.
Tone:Balanced, thoughtful, comprehensive.
21. The Author Presents
Definition:The author presents means the writer brings forward data, arguments, or perspectives for consideration.
Detailed Explanation:This is a formal, neutral verb that indicates an introduction of material — often used to signal the start of evidence or an argument. “Presents” carries an academic air and is useful when you want to be both respectful and clear about the author offering something for scrutiny.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author presents longitudinal evidence that therapy outcomes improve when family members are involved.”
- “The author presents a model for community-based interventions.”
Worst Use:Avoid “presents” when the author is narrating personal experiences — it can sound overly formal and distancing. Also don’t use it for emphatic claims where “argues” or “asserts” would better capture the author’s rhetorical posture.
Tone:Formal, presentational, objective.
22. The Author Illustrates
Definition:The author illustrates means the writer uses examples, anecdotes, or imagery to illuminate a point.
Detailed Explanation:This verb conveys that the author is showing rather than telling — using concrete examples, metaphors, or case studies to make abstract ideas tangible. It’s excellent for teaching, storytelling, and persuasive writing where vividness supports understanding.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author illustrates the concept of micro-affirmations with several workplace scenarios.”
- “The author illustrates the stages of grief through a composite character study.”
Worst Use:Do not use “illustrates” when the author provides no examples or imagery — it falsely implies the presence of concrete supports. Using it for purely statistical or theoretical sections can also feel incongruous; choose “presents” or “reports” instead.
Tone:Vivid, explanatory, engaging.
23. The Author Explores
Definition:The author explores indicates inquisitive examination rather than definitive proclamation.
Detailed Explanation:Use “explores” when the author surveys possibilities, asks questions, or investigates relationships without necessarily concluding. It communicates intellectual curiosity and is well-suited for literature reviews, think pieces, or early-stage research.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author explores how early childhood experiences may relate to adult coping styles.”
- “The author explores possible policy options for reducing systemic inequality.”
Worst Use:Avoid “explores” when the author is making a clear, evidence-backed claim; it softens what may be a strong conclusion. Also don’t rely on it in contexts requiring actionable recommendations — “explores” implies open-endedness, not prescription.
Tone:Curious, open-minded, investigative.
24. The Author Concludes
Definition:The author concludes signals that the writer is presenting an end point — a summary judgment or final idea based on prior discussion.
Detailed Explanation:This is used to mark the author’s final synthesis or takeaway. It’s powerful and should be used when the text ties together evidence and argument to reach a clear conclusion. Readers expect this phrase near endings or at the culmination of a logical sequence.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author concludes that community engagement is essential for lasting behavior change.”
- “The author concludes that while technology helps scale support, personal connection remains indispensable.”
Worst Use:Do not use “concludes” prematurely — applying it to non-final reflections can mislead readers. Also, avoid using it when the author is speculating rather than synthesizing evidence; labeling speculation as conclusion undermines credibility.
Tone:Authoritative, summarizing, decisive.
25. The Author Communicates
Definition:The author communicates suggests the writer conveys a message or intention, often with clarity and purpose.
Detailed Explanation:This is slightly broader than “states” — it captures not just content but also communication intent (how the message is meant to land). Use it to signal that the author is actively trying to send a meaningful message to readers, stakeholders, or participants.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author communicates a clear plea for more humane workplace policies.”
- “The author communicates the necessity of listening before acting.”
Worst Use:Don’t use “communicates” for passages that are merely descriptive or technical; it suggests deliberate messaging and may overstate rhetorical intent. Also avoid it when the author’s message is muddled — using “communicates” can imply clarity where none exists.
Tone:Intentional, clear, persuasive.
26. The Author Portrays
Definition:The author portrays indicates depiction — the author creates an image, character, or emotional scene for the reader.
Detailed Explanation:
This is ideal for literary analysis, biographies, or narrative non-fiction. “Portrays” emphasizes representation: how the author shapes a subject’s image, attributes, or emotional color through language or structure.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author portrays the protagonist as quietly resilient, using recurring motifs of light and repair.”
- “The author portrays the community as both flawed and hopeful, highlighting small acts of care.”
Worst Use:Avoid “portrays” for purely factual reporting or when you’re summarizing methodology. It carries an artistic connotation and may sound subjective in formal research contexts. Misusing it can create ambiguity about whether you’re analyzing style or reporting fact.
Tone:Artful, descriptive, interpretive.
27. The Author Reflects
Definition:The author reflects indicates thoughtful consideration, often personal or philosophical.
Detailed Explanation:This is used when the writer looks back on experiences, weighs implications, or offers contemplative insights. It’s perfect for memoir, reflective essays, and conclusion sections that connect evidence to meaning.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author reflects on the long-term effects of childhood encouragement on adult confidence.”
- “The author reflects that policy change needs both top-down leadership and grassroots action.”
Worst Use:Don’t use “reflects” for straightforward reporting or when the author is offering technical recommendations — it implies introspection, not instruction. Also avoid it when the author is primarily presenting data; applying “reflects” to data summaries can inappropriately humanize impersonal findings.
Tone:Contemplative, thoughtful, introspective.
28. The Author Acknowledges
Definition:The author acknowledges means the writer recognizes or admits a fact, limitation, or perspective.
Detailed Explanation:This is a respectful, often humble verb. It’s useful when the author wants to show awareness of complexity, exception, or alternative viewpoints — for instance, admitting limits of methodology or conceding contradictory evidence. “Acknowledges” signals intellectual honesty and empathy.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author acknowledges that cultural norms may influence responses to the intervention.”
- “The author acknowledges limitations in the study’s sample and calls for broader research.”
Worst Use:Avoid “acknowledges” when used as a perfunctory add-on that doesn’t genuinely address counter-evidence; it can become a rhetorical checkbox rather than meaningful transparency. Also don’t substitute it for stronger concessions—if the author substantially changes position, “acknowledges” may understate the shift.
Tone:Humble, responsible, respectful.
29. The Author Describes
Definition:The author indicates the writer gives detailed depiction, including sensory or factual detail.
Detailed Explanation:Use this verb when the author paints a picture through specifics — whether of events, settings, processes, or feelings. “Describes” is versatile and works in narrative, technical, and observational contexts.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author describes the clinic’s atmosphere as calm, with soft lighting and steady routines.”
- “The author describes the stages of skill acquisition with clear behavioral markers.”
Worst Use:Don’t use “describes” for abstract claims or arguments; it’s meant for detail-oriented passages. Overuse can make analysis feel merely ornamental rather than substantive. Also, using it to summarize complex reasoning risks flattening logical structure into imagery.
Tone:Descriptive, vivid, informative.
30. The Author Conveys
Definition:The author conveys suggests the writer transmits meaning, feeling, or perspective effectively.
Detailed Explanation:“Conveys” emphasizes how the reader is meant to receive the message — the impact, not just the content. It’s a graceful alternative when the author’s expression or emotional tone is central to understanding the passage.
Scenario Examples:
- “The author conveys a quiet optimism that small changes can lead to broader healing.”
- “The author conveys urgency through short, direct sentences and stark statistics.”
Worst Use:Avoid “conveys” when the passage is neutral or technical; it implies emotive or rhetorical force that may not exist. Overuse can also introduce interpretive bias: stating that an author “conveys” X might be read as your own interpretation if not clearly supported by text.
Tone:Expressive, intentional, impactful.
FAQs
1. Why should I avoid using “the author states” too often?
Using the same phrase repeatedly can make your writing sound dull or mechanical. Choosing different expressions keeps your work clear, engaging, and more professional.
2. What are some quick alternatives I can use?
Simple options include “the author explains,” “the author argues,” “the author suggests,” or “the author notes.” These help you match the tone of the source more precisely.
3. Do I use different phrases for quotes and paraphrases?
Yes. Direct quotes often work well with verbs like “writes” or “states,” while paraphrases sound smoother with verbs like “clarifies,” “indicates,” or “describes.”
4. Is it okay to repeat a phrase sometimes?
Absolutely. Variety is important, but clarity matters more. If the phrase fits the sentence best, you can use it—just avoid using it in back-to-back sentences.
5. How do I know which verb is the right choice?
Look at the author’s tone. Are they arguing, describing, questioning, or explaining? Choose a verb that reflects what they are actually doing.
6. Will changing these phrases improve my academic writing?
Yes. Even small adjustments make your writing sound more polished and thoughtful, and teachers or professors often notice this improvement.
Conclusion
Finding other ways to say “the author states” can transform your writing from repetitive to refined. By choosing phrases that better match the tone, purpose, and meaning of the source, you make your work clearer, more engaging, and more professional. With a little practice, these alternatives become natural tools that add flexibility, strength, and confidence to every paper you write.
