Quick Answer: “States” is a reporting verb used to introduce information from a source. Top alternatives include: notes, observes, reports, explains, argues, asserts, points out, mentions, describes, and outlines.
Have you ever read a paragraph where “states” appears in every other sentence? If so, you are not alone. This reporting verb is one of the most common choices in academic writing, yet it is also one of the easiest to overuse, which makes essays feel repetitive and mechanical.
English learners and professionals often rely on “states” because it is neutral and safe. However, learning alternatives to “states” helps you introduce sources in English with more precision, nuance, and academic credibility, while also showing your stance on the material.
Knowing other ways to say “states” gives you options for every citation context. For example, you can use a neutral verb when reporting facts, a stronger verb when presenting an argument, or a cautious verb when discussing uncertain findings. This guide gives you 30 practical alternatives with clear examples so you can use each one with confidence.
“The verb you choose tells your reader how to read the source.”
Quick Categories
Neutral alternatives to “States”
- Notes
- Observes
- Reports
- Mentions
- Describes
Pro Tips Box: Neutral alternatives suit straightforward factual reporting where you do not want to signal agreement or disagreement .
Stronger alternatives (signaling confidence)
- Argues
- Asserts
- Contends
- Maintains
- Insists
Pro Tips Box: Stronger alternatives work well when the source takes a clear position or when you want to emphasize the author’s conviction .
Analytical alternatives
- Explains
- Illustrates
- Demonstrates
- Shows
- Clarifies
Pro Tips Box: Analytical alternatives suit evidence-based writing where the source provides data, examples, or reasoning .
Cautious alternatives (signaling tentativeness)
- Suggests
- Proposes
- Hypothesizes
- Indicates
- Implies
Pro Tips Box: Cautious alternatives are ideal when the source is speculative, preliminary, or open to interpretation .
Common Mistakes
- Using “states” repeatedly in one paragraph
Example: “Smith states… Jones states… Brown states…” This makes your writing feel robotic and lacks analytical depth . - Using a strong verb for a weak claim
Example: “Smith proves that chocolate is delicious.” “Proves” is too strong for a subjective claim. - Using a neutral verb for a controversial argument
Example: “Smith notes that climate change is a hoax.” “Notes” understates the controversial nature of the claim. - Forgetting to match the verb to your own stance
Example: Using “admits” when you actually disagree with the source. “Admits” implies the author was reluctant to accept a truth. - Using informal verbs in academic writing
Example: “Smith talks about…” This is too casual for formal essays .
“Precision in reporting verbs is precision in academic thinking.”
What Does “States” Mean in an Essay?
“States” is a reporting verb used to introduce a claim, fact, or idea from a source. Specifically, it signals that you are presenting information neutrally, without indicating whether you agree, disagree, or doubt the source .
Example Sentence: “The author states that early intervention improves long-term outcomes.”
When to Use “States”
- When reporting a factual claim from a source
- When introducing a quotation neutrally
- When summarizing a source’s position
- When you do not want to signal your own stance
- When the source’s claim is straightforward and uncontroversial
Spoken vs Written: Primarily written academic English.
Formal vs Informal: Formal and neutral. It is standard in essays, reports, and research papers.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “States”?
Polite? Yes, it is neutral and respectful.
Professional? Yes, it is standard in academic writing, though overuse weakens its effectiveness.
Business-style example: “The report states that customer satisfaction has improved, which supports our current strategy.”
“Neutral reporting is useful, but variety is what keeps academic writing alive.”
Pros and Cons of Using “States”
Pros:
- Clear and neutral
- Widely understood
- Safe choice for most sources
- Appropriate for factual reporting
Cons:
- Overused in academic writing
- Lacks analytical nuance
- Can make your writing feel mechanical
- Does not signal your stance on the source
Other Ways to Say “States” (With Examples)
These alternatives will help you sound more fluent, confident, and natural in different situations. Use them according to tone, context, and audience to introduce sources, signal stance, or add analytical depth.
1. Phrase: Notes
Meaning: Reports something with slight caution.
Explanation: Neutral but implies the point is worth attention.
Example Sentence: “The author notes that further research is needed before drawing conclusions.”
Best Use: Cautious reporting
Worst Use: Strong arguments
Tone: Neutral, cautious, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic and professional contexts .
2. Phrase: Observes
Meaning: Reports something noticed or examined.
Explanation: Suggests careful attention.
Example Sentence: “Smith observes that the pattern has remained consistent for a decade.”
Best Use: Analytical writing
Worst Use: Quick summaries
Tone: Neutral, observant, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
3. Phrase: Reports
Meaning: Presents findings or information.
Explanation: Common for data and research.
Example Sentence: “The study reports a significant increase in retention rates.”
Best Use: Research findings
Worst Use: Theoretical arguments
Tone: Neutral, factual, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic and professional contexts .
4. Phrase: Mentions
Meaning: Refers to something briefly.
Explanation: Suggests the point is secondary.
Example Sentence: “The author mentions the policy only in passing.”
Best Use: Brief references
Worst Use: Central arguments
Tone: Neutral, brief, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
5. Phrase: Describes
Meaning: Explains the features of something.
Explanation: Focuses on detail and characterization.
Example Sentence: “The report describes the process in three distinct stages.”
Best Use: Explanatory writing
Worst Use: Argumentative claims
Tone: Neutral, descriptive, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
6. Phrase: Argues
Meaning: Presents a reasoned position.
Explanation: Signals a clear argument or debate.
Example Sentence: “Jones argues that current regulations are insufficient.”
Best Use: Argumentative essays
Worst Use: Factual reporting
Tone: Strong, persuasive, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
7. Phrase: Asserts
Meaning: States something confidently.
Explanation: Stronger than “states,” implies conviction.
Example Sentence: “The author asserts that the policy has failed.”
Best Use: Strong claims
Worst Use: Tentative findings
Tone: Strong, confident, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
8. Phrase: Contends
Meaning: Argues a point in a debate.
Explanation: Common in academic disagreement.
Example Sentence: “Brown contends that the evidence has been misinterpreted.”
Best Use: Debates and critiques
Worst Use: Neutral summaries
Tone: Strong, argumentative, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
9. Phrase: Maintains
Meaning: Holds a position consistently.
Explanation: Suggests the author has defended this view.
Example Sentence: “The researcher maintains that the method is reliable.”
Best Use: Defended positions
Worst Use: Brief mentions
Tone: Strong, consistent, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
10. Phrase: Insists
Meaning: Repeats a claim firmly.
Explanation: Implies the author has faced opposition.
Example Sentence: “The author insists that the findings remain valid despite criticism.”
Best Use: Contested claims
Worst Use: Neutral reporting
Tone: Strong, firm, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
11. Phrase: Explains
Meaning: Makes something clear.
Explanation: Focuses on reasoning and clarification.
Example Sentence: “The author explains why the two variables are connected.”
Best Use: Clarifying arguments
Worst Use: Simple statements
Tone: Analytical, clear, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
12. Phrase: Illustrates
Meaning: Provides examples or evidence.
Explanation: Common when sources use examples.
Example Sentence: “The report illustrates the problem with three case studies.”
Best Use: Evidence-based writing
Worst Use: Theoretical arguments
Tone: Analytical, demonstrative, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
13. Phrase: Demonstrates
Meaning: Shows clearly through evidence.
Explanation: Stronger than “shows,” implies proof.
Example Sentence: “The study demonstrates a clear link between the two factors.”
Best Use: Evidence-based claims
Worst Use: Opinions
Tone: Strong, evidential, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
14. Phrase: Shows
Meaning: Presents evidence or results.
Explanation: Direct and common in analysis.
Example Sentence: “The data shows a steady decline over five years.”
Best Use: Data reporting
Worst Use: Theoretical discussions
Tone: Neutral, evidential, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
15. Phrase: Clarifies
Meaning: Makes something easier to understand.
Explanation: Focuses on explanation.
Example Sentence: “The author clarifies the distinction between the two terms.”
Best Use: Conceptual writing
Worst Use: Data reporting
Tone: Analytical, clear, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
16. Phrase: Suggests
Meaning: Proposes something tentatively.
Explanation: Signals caution or indirect evidence.
Example Sentence: “The findings suggest that the policy may need revision.”
Best Use: Tentative conclusions
Worst Use: Strong claims
Tone: Cautious, tentative, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
17. Phrase: Proposes
Meaning: Puts forward an idea or plan.
Explanation: Common in theoretical writing.
Example Sentence: “The author proposes a new framework for analysis.”
Best Use: Theoretical writing
Worst Use: Factual reporting
Tone: Analytical, constructive, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
18. Phrase: Hypothesizes
Meaning: Suggests a possible explanation.
Explanation: Signals speculation or early-stage research.
Example Sentence: “The researcher hypothesizes that stress is a contributing factor.”
Best Use: Early-stage research
Worst Use: Confirmed findings
Tone: Cautious, speculative, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
19. Phrase: Indicates
Meaning: Points to something without stating it directly.
Explanation: Common for trends and implications.
Example Sentence: “The results indicate a need for further investigation.”
Best Use: Data interpretation
Worst Use: Direct claims
Tone: Neutral, indicative, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
20. Phrase: Implies
Meaning: Suggests something indirectly.
Explanation: Common in critical analysis.
Example Sentence: “The author implies that the system is fundamentally flawed.”
Best Use: Critical analysis
Worst Use: Direct statements
Tone: Analytical, indirect, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
21. Phrase: Points out
Meaning: Draws attention to a specific detail.
Explanation: Common in analysis and critique.
Example Sentence: “The author points out a gap in the existing literature.”
Best Use: Critical analysis
Worst Use: General summaries
Tone: Analytical, specific, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
22. Phrase: Highlights
Meaning: Emphasizes something important.
Explanation: Suggests the author wants attention drawn.
Example Sentence: “The report highlights the need for immediate action.”
Best Use: Emphatic reporting
Worst Use: Neutral summaries
Tone: Emphatic, analytical, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
23. Phrase: Acknowledges
Meaning: Admits or recognizes something.
Explanation: Often implies the author accepts a point.
Example Sentence: “The author acknowledges the limitations of the study.”
Best Use: Balanced reporting
Worst Use: Disagreement
Tone: Neutral, accepting, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
24. Phrase: Concedes
Meaning: Admits a point reluctantly.
Explanation: Suggests the author is giving ground.
Example Sentence: “The author concedes that the evidence is not conclusive.”
Best Use: Balanced debates
Worst Use: Strong claims
Tone: Cautious, accepting, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
25. Phrase: Claims
Meaning: States something without proof.
Explanation: Often signals skepticism from the writer.
Example Sentence: “The author claims that the method is universally applicable.”
Best Use: Critical reporting
Worst Use: Agreeing with the source
Tone: Skeptical, cautious, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
26. Phrase: Alleges
Meaning: Claims something without proof, often controversial.
Explanation: Strongly implies doubt.
Example Sentence: “The author alleges that the data was manipulated.”
Best Use: Controversial claims
Worst Use: Neutral reporting
Tone: Skeptical, critical, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
27. Phrase: Outlines
Meaning: Summarizes the main points.
Explanation: Common for structured arguments.
Example Sentence: “The report outlines three possible solutions.”
Best Use: Structured summaries
Worst Use: Detailed analysis
Tone: Neutral, structured, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
28. Phrase: Remarks
Meaning: Says something briefly.
Explanation: Suggests a casual or secondary comment.
Example Sentence: “The author remarks that the issue has been overlooked.”
Best Use: Brief observations
Worst Use: Central arguments
Tone: Neutral, brief, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
29. Phrase: Writes
Meaning: A simple alternative to “states.”
Explanation: Neutral and flexible.
Example Sentence: “As Smith writes, the problem requires a multidisciplinary approach.”
Best Use: General reporting
Worst Use: Strong arguments
Tone: Neutral, simple, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
30. Phrase: Articulates
Meaning: Expresses something clearly.
Explanation: Suggests the author has formulated the idea well.
Example Sentence: “The author articulates a compelling case for reform.”
Best Use: Praise for clarity
Worst Use: Neutral reporting
Tone: Analytical, appreciative, academic
Context Variability: Works in academic contexts .
“The right verb tells your reader not just what the source says, but how to read it.”
Mini Quiz / Self-Check
- Which verb is best for a factual report with no stance?
a) Claims
b) Reports
c) Insists - Which verb signals skepticism about the source?
a) Demonstrates
b) Claims
c) Explains - You want to show the author has defended a position. Which is best?
a) Mentions
b) Maintains
c) Notes - Which verb is best for tentative findings?
a) Proves
b) Suggests
c) Asserts
Answers: 1-b, 2-b, 3-b, 4-b
Comparison Table: Top Alternatives
| Phrase | Tone | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Notes | Neutral, cautious | Cautious reporting |
| Observes | Neutral, analytical | Analytical writing |
| Reports | Neutral, factual | Research findings |
| Argues | Strong, persuasive | Argumentative essays |
| Asserts | Strong, confident | Strong claims |
| Explains | Analytical, clear | Clarifying arguments |
| Illustrates | Analytical, demonstrative | Evidence-based writing |
| Suggests | Cautious, tentative | Tentative conclusions |
| Points out | Analytical, specific | Critical analysis |
| Claims | Skeptical, cautious | Critical reporting |
FAQs
1. What is another word for “states” in an essay?
Use “notes,” “observes,” “reports,” or “explains” for neutral alternatives. Use “argues” or “asserts” for stronger claims .
2. How can I avoid repeating “states” in my essay?
Vary your reporting verbs and match them to the source’s stance. Use neutral verbs for facts and strong verbs for arguments .
3. Is “states” formal enough for academic writing?
Yes, it is formal and neutral. However, overuse weakens your writing, so variety is essential .
4. What is the difference between “states” and “claims”?
“States” is neutral. “Claims” often implies skepticism or lack of proof from the writer’s perspective .
5. Which reporting verb shows I disagree with the source?
Use “claims,” “alleges,” or “asserts” to signal skepticism or distance from the source’s position .
Conclusion
Learning other ways to say “states” gives you the flexibility to introduce sources with precision, nuance, and academic credibility. Whether you need a neutral verb for factual reporting or a stronger verb for argumentative writing, the right choice strengthens your essay and shows your reader how to interpret the source.
Practice these alternatives daily and pay attention to tone awareness. The more you experiment with different reporting verbs, the more fluent and persuasive your academic writing will become.
CTA: Which verb will you try first? Share your favorite in the comments below.
See also:
- Other Ways to Say “This Is Important Because” (30+ Examples)
- Professional English Guide: How to Sound Confident at Work
Emma Writes is a passionate content writer at ResponsCraft.com, creating practical, well-researched articles that help readers make informed decisions. She enjoys turning complex topics into clear, engaging and easy-to-follow content.