“In this guide on Other Ways to Say ‘The Text States’ (With Examples), you’ll find clear ideas to help your writing sound natural and engaging.” When I first started teaching writing, I often fell into the habit of repeating one phrase, but breaking free from that repetitive cycle added fresh energy to my work.Here, you’ll find empathetic and unique ways to express the same idea without relying on a single phrase.
Finding the right words can make a big difference when interpreting text or summarizing information, and I learned this while helping students revise their essays. Sometimes the original wording feels too formal, and choosing an alternative can make your message resonate on a more personal level.
Using examples and focusing on clarity helps your writing sound thoughtful, warm, and fully engaged.
What Does “The Text States” Mean?
“The text states” is a phrase used to point directly to the exact information written by the author, helping readers understand that your explanation is grounded in the original source. It shows that you’re not assuming or interpreting on your own—you’re referring to something clearly mentioned in the material. This phrase adds clarity, accuracy, and trust, especially when you want your message to feel thoughtful, reliable, and supported by evidence.
When to Use “The Text States”
- When writing in a formal or academic tone
- When summarizing or citing textual evidence
- When clarity matters more than emotion
- When presenting facts rather than interpretation
It works best in structured writing, but softer alternatives often work better in conversations or explanations.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “The Text States”?
Yes, it is completely professional and polite. However, it can come across as overly rigid depending on the situation. If your goal is emotional connection, smooth flow, or warmth, a gentler phrase is often more effective.
Pros or Cons of Saying “The Text States”
Pros
- Clear and straightforward
- Academically appropriate
- Leaves no ambiguity
Cons
- Feels rigid or formal
- Doesn’t match emotional or conversational tone
- Can sound repetitive in longer writing
“The Text States” Synonyms
- The text explains
- The text mentions
- The text highlights
- The text suggests
- The text points out
- The text reveals
- The text indicates
- The text outlines
- The text clarifies
- The text emphasizes
- The author writes
- The author explains
- The author notes
- The author discusses
- The passage states
- The passage explains
- The passage suggests
- The excerpt shows
- The excerpt reveals
- The material mentions
- The article states
- The article highlights
- The book explains
- The book describes
- The chapter reveals
- The chapter clarifies
- The source states
- The source indicates
- According to the text
- According to the author
1. The Text Explains
Definition: The text provides a clear or detailed description of a concept or idea.
Meaning: Used when the writing breaks something down or makes it easier to understand.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase works beautifully when the text is giving clarification rather than simply stating facts. It helps the reader understand that the information was laid out in a guided, structured, or explanatory way. It also adds warmth and helpfulness to your writing, making your message feel more supportive.
Scenario Example: “The text explains how emotional resilience can be developed over time.”
Worst Use: For brief facts that are not explained in detail.
Best Use: When the text provides steps, reasoning, or clarification.
Tone: Supportive and informative.
2. The Text Mentions
Definition: The text briefly refers to a point or idea.
Meaning: Used when the detail is included but not heavily emphasized.
Detailed Explanation: This is softer and more flexible than “states,” making it feel more conversational and less rigid. It is ideal when the text brings up a detail in passing or includes it without deep focus. It helps you guide the reader gently without overstating the importance of the information.
Scenario Example: “The text mentions that the main character once lived abroad.”
Worst Use: When the point is central or deeply explored.
Best Use: For small details or supporting information.
Tone: Light, neutral, and friendly.
3. The Text Highlights
Definition: The text places strong emphasis on a specific point.
Meaning: Used when the writer wants readers to focus attention on something important.
Detailed Explanation: This phrasing feels more intentional and powerful, signaling that the text deliberately draws attention to a key idea. It works well when you want readers to recognize importance, significance, or impact. It also strengthens the emotional weight of your interpretation.
Scenario Example: “The text highlights the importance of self-reflection in personal growth.”
Worst Use: For minor or irrelevant points.
Best Use: When the information is meant to stand out.
Tone: Confident and expressive.
4. The Text Suggests
Definition: The text implies something without directly stating it.
Meaning: Used when interpreting hints, themes, or underlying ideas.
Detailed Explanation: This alternative is perfect when analyzing deeper meaning or symbolic interpretation. It communicates careful reading and thoughtful understanding of the text’s subtle messages. It also adds emotional depth by recognizing nuanced or implied content.
Scenario Example: “The text suggests that the narrator is afraid of confronting the truth.”
Worst Use: For direct quotes or factual statements.
Best Use: When discussing implied meaning or themes.
Tone: Thoughtful and interpretive.
5. The Text Points Out
Definition: The text draws attention to a particular detail or fact.
Meaning: Used when the text directs the reader’s focus toward a specific element.
Detailed Explanation: This is a friendly and helpful phrase that signals clarity and support. It indicates that the text intentionally brings something to the reader’s awareness. It works well for guiding someone through important insights or observations.
Scenario Example: “The text points out that every choice shapes the character’s future.”
Worst Use: When the detail is implied rather than directly given.
Best Use: For clear, noticeable details.
Tone: Direct but warm.
6. The Text Reveals
Definition: The text uncovers or brings new information to light.
Meaning: Used when something previously unclear becomes known.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase works beautifully when the text unveils a surprising truth, hidden detail, or deeper meaning. It helps communicate that the information was not obvious at first but becomes clear through reading. It also adds dramatic weight and emotional depth to your interpretation.
Scenario Example: “The text reveals that the protagonist has been hiding her true identity.”
Worst Use: When the information is already obvious or repeated.
Best Use: For discoveries, secrets, or new insights.
Tone: Dramatic, impactful, and revealing.
7. The Text Indicates
Definition: The text shows evidence or signs of something.
Meaning: Used when information points toward a conclusion.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is especially effective in analytical or academic settings because it communicates clarity without emotional bias. It signals that the written evidence leads logically to an understanding. It helps the reader recognize that your conclusion is grounded in the text.
Scenario Example: “The text indicates a pattern of increasing conflict throughout the plot.”
Worst Use: For emotional, symbolic, or creative interpretations.
Best Use: For factual or evidence-based points.
Tone: Objective and scholarly.
8. The Text Outlines
Definition: The text provides a structured overview or breakdown.
Meaning: Used when the writing lists or organizes key points.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase works when the text presents ideas in a clear sequence, such as steps, stages, or processes. It helps the reader understand that the information is arranged logically and intentionally. It adds clarity and flow to explanatory writing.
Scenario Example: “The text outlines three major reasons behind the economic shift.”
Worst Use: For emotional or abstract concepts.
Best Use: For structured lists, summaries, or processes.
Tone: Organized and instructional.
9. The Text Clarifies
Definition: The text makes something easier to understand.
Meaning: Used when the writing removes confusion.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is helpful when the text provides explanation or resolves misunderstandings. It helps the reader feel supported and guided through complex ideas. It also strengthens comprehension by pointing out that the text simplifies rather than complicates information.
Scenario Example: “The text clarifies the reason behind the character’s sudden departure.”
Worst Use: When the text itself is unclear or vague.
Best Use: For explanations, resolutions, or definitions.
Tone: Supportive and clear.
10. The Text Emphasizes
Definition: The text strongly stresses a particular idea.
Meaning: Used when the writing gives importance or priority to something.
Detailed Explanation: This alternative shows that the text wants readers to focus closely on a message or detail. It works well for themes, lessons, or emotional moments that carry weight. It adds a sense of significance and intention to your interpretation.
Scenario Example: “The text emphasizes the importance of courage during difficult times.”
Worst Use: For minor or passing details.
Best Use: For major themes and key ideas.
Tone: Strong, serious, and intentional.
11. The Author Writes
Definition: Used to indicate the author’s direct words.
Meaning: Suitable for quotations or summarizing statements.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase feels more personal than “the text states” because it gives credit to the author rather than the text. It reminds the reader that a human wrote the content. It adds warmth, respect, and a touch of conversational tone.
Scenario Example: “The author writes that healing takes time and patience.”
Worst Use: When you are discussing the structure of a text rather than its writer.
Best Use: For direct quotes or author-focused commentary.
Tone: Personal and warm.
12. The Author Explains
Definition: The author provides clarification or understanding.
Meaning: Used when the writer breaks down a concept.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase works well when the writing includes guidance, teaching, or simplification. It acknowledges the author’s intention to help the reader understand something. It also adds a softer, more human touch to your explanation.
Scenario Example: “The author explains how consistent effort leads to growth.”
Worst Use: When quoting emotional or symbolic content.
Best Use: For instructional or explanatory passages.
Tone: Helpful and clear.
13. The Author Notes
Definition: The author mentions or observes something.
Meaning: Used when the point is acknowledged but not heavily emphasized.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase suggests a light, thoughtful reference from the author. It’s ideal for observations, small details, or side comments. It helps your writing feel calm, careful, and intentionally neutral.
Scenario Example: “The author notes that communication is often influenced by fear.”
Worst Use: When describing central themes or major claims.
Best Use: For subtle or secondary points.
Tone: Neutral, mild, and thoughtful.
14. The Author Discusses
Definition: The author talks about or examines a topic.
Meaning: Used when the writing provides conversation, details, or analysis.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase works beautifully when the author explores an idea rather than merely stating it. It suggests depth, conversation, and intellectual engagement. It also adds richness to your analysis by emphasizing exploration.
Scenario Example: “The author discusses the impact of forgiveness on emotional healing.”
Worst Use: For short or simple statements.
Best Use: For analytical or reflective sections.
Tone: Thoughtful and engaged.
15. The Passage States
Definition: The passage directly expresses certain information.
Meaning: Used when quoting or summarizing specific lines.
Detailed Explanation: This alternative feels slightly softer than “the text states” because it focuses on a smaller portion of the writing. It is ideal for close reading or analyzing a particular segment. It helps narrow attention without sounding overly formal.
Scenario Example: “The passage states that trust is earned slowly.”
Worst Use: When discussing the entire text or book.
Best Use: For smaller excerpts or sections.
Tone: Neutral and academic.
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16. The Passage Explains
Definition: The passage breaks down or clarifies a concept.
Meaning: Used when a specific section provides understanding.
Detailed Explanation: This is effective for detailed or teaching-focused parts of a text. It shows that the passage serves to help the reader grasp something important. It also adds structure and clarity to your analysis.
Scenario Example: “The passage explains why the character feels emotionally torn.”
Worst Use: For minor references.
Best Use: For explanations within a specific section.
Tone: Helpful and clear.
17. The Passage Suggests
Definition: The passage implies meaning without directly stating it.
Meaning: Used for interpretation or deeper analysis.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is perfect when the section hints at emotions, themes, motivations, or underlying ideas. It encourages readers to read between the lines. It adds depth, nuance, and interpretation to your writing.
Scenario Example: “The passage suggests that the family is slowly drifting apart.”
Worst Use: For factual or direct statements.
Best Use: For symbolism, tone, or emotional reading.
Tone: Interpretive and reflective.
18. The Excerpt Shows
Definition: The excerpt demonstrates or displays something.
Meaning: Used when a small part of the text illustrates a point.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is ideal when referencing shorter selections or quotes. It highlights evidence while sounding natural and clear. It’s especially useful in essays, articles, and literature analysis.
Scenario Example: “The excerpt shows how fear controls the narrator’s decisions.”
Worst Use: When referring to the entire text.
Best Use: For close reading and short selections.
Tone: Clear and evidence-based.
19. The Excerpt Reveals
Definition: The excerpt uncovers something meaningful.
Meaning: Used when a short section exposes a truth or insight.
Detailed Explanation: This alternative adds emotional weight, making it excellent for dramatic or meaningful discoveries within a short passage. It helps communicate importance and surprise.
Scenario Example: “The excerpt reveals that the character secretly regrets her decision.”
Worst Use: For factual or routine information.
Best Use: For emotional or plot-related discoveries.
Tone: Dramatic and expressive.
20. The Material Mentions
Definition: The material briefly refers to something.
Meaning: Used when referencing general content in the source.
Detailed Explanation: This is useful for summarizing or lightly discussing content from textbooks, guides, or instructional material. It is gentle and non-academic, making it useful for everyday explanation.
Scenario Example: “The material mentions the importance of setting clear goals.”
Worst Use: When discussing fiction or emotional writing.
Best Use: For practical or instructional content.
Tone: Neutral and simple.
21. The Article States
Definition: The article directly expresses information.
Meaning: Used when referencing formal or published articles.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is clear and professional, perfect for online articles, research reports, or news publications. It helps frame the source clearly while maintaining accuracy and directness.
Scenario Example: “The article states that online learning has increased significantly.”
Worst Use: For fiction or creative texts.
Best Use: For news, research, and online sources.
Tone: Professional and factual.
22. The Article Highlights
Definition: The article emphasizes a key point.
Meaning: Used when the article draws special attention to something.
Detailed Explanation: This alternative is great for summarizing the main message or central idea of informational pieces. It shows that the writer is pointing readers toward important insights or data.
Scenario Example: “The article highlights growing concerns around misinformation.”
Worst Use: For minor background information.
Best Use: For key arguments or major findings.
Tone: Strong and purposeful.
23. The Book Explains
Definition: The book provides detailed explanation or teaching.
Meaning: Used when referring to larger works.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase works for nonfiction, educational texts, or instructional books. It makes your writing feel grounded and respectful, acknowledging the broader context of the source.
Scenario Example: “The book explains how habits shape our identity.”
Worst Use: For short stories or poems.
Best Use: For nonfiction or self-help books.
Tone: Clear and educational.
24. The Book Describes
Definition: The book offers descriptive details.
Meaning: Used when the writing paints images or settings.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is ideal for novels, biographies, or narrative nonfiction. It helps the reader understand that the text is offering sensory or emotional description rather than pure fact.
Scenario Example: “The book describes the town as quiet and peaceful.”
Worst Use: For factual or analytical claims.
Best Use: For storytelling or imagery.
Tone: Descriptive and warm.
25. The Chapter Reveals
Definition: The chapter uncovers meaningful information.
Meaning: Used when a specific chapter introduces new insight.
Detailed Explanation: This alternative helps you pinpoint where information comes from, which is useful in structured writing. It also conveys the emotional impact and timing of the discovery.
Scenario Example: “The chapter reveals the truth about the family’s past.”
Worst Use: For minor details spread across multiple chapters.
Best Use: For important discoveries in long texts.
Tone: Dramatic and focused.
26. The Chapter Clarifies
Definition: The chapter makes something clear that was previously confusing.
Meaning: Used for explanations or resolutions.
Detailed Explanation: This works when new information finally makes sense of something that was unclear earlier in the book. It adds a sense of completion, understanding, and thoughtful analysis.
Scenario Example: “The chapter clarifies why the protagonist felt misunderstood.”
Worst Use: When the chapter introduces new confusion.
Best Use: For resolving questions or misunderstandings.
Tone: Supportive and explanatory.
27. The Source States
Definition: The source directly provides information.
Meaning: Used for formal or academic referencing.
Detailed Explanation: This is an excellent alternative when citing data, reports, or research materials. It keeps your writing professional while remaining neutral and precise.
Scenario Example: “The source states that 70% of participants reported improvement.”
Worst Use: For creative or literary discussions.
Best Use: For studies, data, or formal citations.
Tone: Formal and objective.
28. The Source Indicates
Definition: The source provides evidence toward a conclusion.
Meaning: Used when drawing logical meaning from written data.
Detailed Explanation: This alternative signals that the conclusion is not emotional but grounded in evidence. It works particularly well for scientific or statistical writing.
Scenario Example: “The source indicates a decline in customer satisfaction.”
Worst Use: For symbolic or fictional analysis.
Best Use: For research-based writing.
Tone: Analytical and factual.
29. According to the Text
Definition: The information comes directly from the text.
Meaning: Used for referencing ideas, facts, or quotes.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase softens the tone while still sounding clear and credible. It fits well in essays, explanations, and conversations because it’s straightforward but not overly formal.
Scenario Example: “According to the text, the main theme centers around acceptance.”
Worst Use: For deeply analytical interpretations.
Best Use: For summarizing or referencing.
Tone: Neutral and simple.
30. According to the Author
Definition: The information or message comes from the author.
Meaning: Used to acknowledge the writer’s viewpoint.
Detailed Explanation: This is a respectful and human-centered alternative that shifts focus from the text to the person behind it. It works well when discussing perspective, intention, or the author’s message.
Scenario Example: “According to the author, meaningful change begins with awareness.”
Worst Use: When discussing purely textual structure.
Best Use: For interpretation or author’s philosophy.
Tone: Warm, respectful, and thoughtful.
FAQs:
1. Why should I use alternatives to “the text states”?
Using the same phrase again and again can make your writing sound repetitive. Choosing different options helps your ideas feel clearer, fresher, and more engaging.
2. Are alternatives suitable for academic writing?
Yes, many alternatives sound professional and work well in essays, reports, and research. They help you present evidence smoothly without sounding robotic.
3. Can these alternatives fit informal writing too?
Absolutely. Options like “the author explains” or “the passage shows” work in everyday communication, emails, or study notes.
4. What if I’m unsure which alternative fits best?
Choose the phrase that matches what the text is doing—explaining, showing, suggesting, describing, arguing, or highlighting.
5. Can I use these alternatives when quoting directly?
Yes. Most alternatives work before or after a quote. Just make sure the phrase fits the tone of your writing.
Conclusion
Finding Other Ways to Say “The Text States” (With Examples) helps you write with more clarity, confidence, and style. By choosing phrases that match your purpose—whether you’re summarizing, analyzing, or explaining—you make your writing sound more thoughtful and personal. With the right words, your ideas stand out, your message becomes clearer, and your readers stay engaged from start to finish.
