20 Other Ways to Say “In the Text It States” (With Examples)

When referencing something that’s written in a document, article, or any piece of writing, it’s essential to be able to express this in various ways to keep the flow of your conversation or writing engaging.

List of All Synonyms

1. The Text Specifies
2. The Document Mentions
3. According to the Text
4. The Text Points Out
5. The Passage States
6. The Author Notes
7. The Text Highlights
8. The Document Indicates
9. The Text Reveals
10. The Passage Suggests
11. The Author Highlights
12. It Is Stated in the Text
13. The Text Mentions
14. As Mentioned in the Text
15. The Source States
16. The Text Clarifies
17. It Is Explained in the Text
18. The Text Demonstrates
19. The Document Outlines
20. The Text Describes

1. The Text Specifies

Introduction: This phrase is another formal way to indicate that something is clearly mentioned or detailed in the writing.
Definition: “Specifies” suggests that the text clearly identifies or points out a specific detail.
Meaning: It indicates that the text includes a precise and defined statement or piece of information.
Tone: Formal, clear.
Example: “The text specifies the exact requirements for the application process.”
Explanation: This phrase is perfect for legal, academic, or formal writing where precision matters.

2. The Document Mentions

Introduction: A simple and straightforward way to reference something in the written material.
Definition: “Mentions” refers to something being brought up or acknowledged in the text.
Meaning: It conveys that a certain point or fact is noted or referenced within the document.
Tone: Neutral, factual.
Example: “The document mentions the need for further research before proceeding.”
Explanation: Use this phrase when the information is casually or briefly introduced in the text.

3. According to the Text

Introduction: A more common and widely used way to refer to something written in the text.
Definition: “According to” suggests that the information is sourced directly from the text.
Meaning: It’s a way to attribute the information or opinion found in the text.
Tone: Neutral, formal.
Example: “According to the text, there are several potential solutions to the problem.”
Explanation: This is ideal when citing or referring to something specific within the writing.

4. The Text Points Out

Introduction: A phrase that emphasizes the act of drawing attention to something in the writing.
Definition: “Points out” means that the text draws attention to a particular fact or idea.
Meaning: It shows that the text highlights or indicates something important.
Tone: Informal, instructive.
Example: “The text points out the need for regular maintenance to prevent further issues.”
Explanation: A more casual and conversational way to reference content in the text.

5. The Passage States

Introduction: This is a variation of “in the text it states” and is often used in more formal writing.
Definition: “Passage” refers to a specific part or section of the text, and “states” means that something is clearly expressed.
Meaning: It indicates that a particular section of the text has made a clear statement.
Tone: Formal, scholarly.
Example: “The passage states that proper documentation is essential for the project.”
Explanation: Ideal for academic or literary contexts when referring to a specific part of a text.

6. The Author Notes

Introduction: A phrase that attributes information directly to the writer of the text.
Definition: “Notes” suggests that the author has pointed out or mentioned something.
Meaning: This phrase conveys that the writer has made a specific observation or comment within the text.
Tone: Authoritative, formal.
Example: “The author notes that the study’s results are preliminary and require further investigation.”
Explanation: Use this when citing the writer’s specific remarks or comments within the text.

7. The Text Highlights

Introduction: A way to say that something is emphasized or brought to attention in the writing.
Definition: “Highlights” means that something is emphasized or made prominent in the text.
Meaning: It suggests that the text has drawn attention to something noteworthy.
Tone: Emphasizing, formal.
Example: “The text highlights the importance of teamwork in achieving the project goals.”
Explanation: Great for referring to points that the text places emphasis on.

8. The Document Indicates

Introduction: A neutral phrase that’s often used in reports or formal writing.
Definition: “Indicates” refers to a statement or observation that points out something.
Meaning: It suggests that the document provides a clue or makes a reference to something specific.
Tone: Formal, neutral.
Example: “The document indicates that all participants must register by the deadline.”
Explanation: Suitable for professional or official documents.

9. The Text Reveals

Introduction: This phrase is useful when something is disclosed or unveiled within the text.
Definition: “Reveals” suggests that the text uncovers or makes something known that wasn’t previously clear.
Meaning: It indicates that the text presents new information or insights.
Tone: Formal, informative.
Example: “The text reveals the underlying causes of the issue, which had been previously overlooked.”
Explanation: This phrase works well when referencing new or unexpected information in a document.

10. The Passage Suggests

Introduction: A gentle way of saying that the text proposes an idea or implies something.
Definition: “Suggests” implies that the text offers a thought or recommendation without being too direct.
Meaning: It indicates that the text is putting forth an idea, though it may not be stated outright.
Tone: Neutral, considerate.
Example: “The passage suggests that further investigation is needed before making a decision.”
Explanation: Use this when the text proposes or hints at something.

11. The Author Highlights

Introduction: Similar to “the text highlights,” but with a direct focus on the writer’s intention to emphasize something.
Definition: “Highlights” means the author is actively bringing attention to an important idea or detail.
Meaning: It conveys that the author is intentionally focusing on a specific point in the writing.
Tone: Formal, focused.
Example: “The author highlights the key factors contributing to the overall success of the project.”
Explanation: Ideal for referring to the author’s main points or takeaways.

12. It Is Stated in the Text

Introduction: A simple and direct way to reference something in the writing.
Definition: This phrase is a straightforward way of saying that something is written or expressed in the text.
Meaning: It points out that a specific detail or fact can be found within the writing.
Tone: Neutral, factual.
Example: “It is stated in the text that all items must be returned in original condition.”
Explanation: A basic, no-frills alternative for referring to something in written material.

13. The Text Mentions

Introduction: A casual way to refer to something in the text, often used for less formal contexts.
Definition: “Mentions” implies a brief or indirect reference to something in the text.
Meaning: It means that the text includes a reference to a specific point.
Tone: Casual, neutral.
Example: “The text mentions the importance of maintaining ethical standards throughout the study.”
Explanation: Use this when referring to a text that makes a brief mention of something.

14. As Mentioned in the Text

Introduction: This phrase is useful for emphasizing something that has already been referenced in the writing.
Definition: “As mentioned” refers to a point that has already been made in the text.
Meaning: It reiterates a previously stated fact or idea within the text.
Tone: Neutral, reinforcing.
Example: “As mentioned in the text, all participants must complete the survey by Friday.”
Explanation: Ideal for reinforcing an earlier point made in the text.

15. The Source States

Introduction: A more formal way to cite information coming from a particular source.
Definition: “Source” refers to the original document or text being cited.
Meaning: It indicates that the information comes from a particular text or source.
Tone: Formal, academic.
Example: “The source states that the company’s growth has been steady over the last decade.”
Explanation: Suitable for academic, research, or formal citations.

16. The Text Clarifies

Introduction: This phrase is useful when referring to a part of the text that explains or makes something clear.
Definition: “Clarifies” suggests that the text provides further explanation or makes something understandable.
Meaning: It indicates that the text offers more detailed or precise information.
Tone: Informative, explanatory.
Example: “The text clarifies the roles of each team member in the project.”
Explanation: Ideal when the text is used to provide clarity or additional details.

17. It Is Explained in the Text

Introduction: A straightforward way to refer to something that has been explained or detailed within the writing.
Definition: “Explained” means that the text provides a detailed account or understanding of something.
Meaning: It suggests that the text provides a full explanation of a topic or concept.
Tone: Neutral, detailed.
Example: “It is explained in the text how the new policy will affect employees.”
Explanation: This is appropriate when referencing a detailed explanation provided in the writing.

18. The Text Demonstrates

Introduction: This phrase is often used when the text provides evidence or examples to support a point.
Definition: “Demonstrates” suggests that the text shows or proves something clearly through examples or evidence.
Meaning: It indicates that the text presents or illustrates something to make it clear.
Tone: Formal, evidence-based.
Example: “The text demonstrates how the new process improves efficiency in the workplace.”
Explanation: Great for highlighting instances where the text shows concrete examples or evidence.

19. The Document Outlines

Introduction: This phrase is commonly used when summarizing or giving a structured view of key points in a document.
Definition: “Outlines” refers to the text presenting the main points in a concise and organized way.
Meaning: It conveys that the document provides a structured description of key elements.
Tone: Formal, structured.
Example: “The document outlines the steps needed to complete the application.”
Explanation: This is ideal for summarizing key elements or processes in an official document.

20. The Text Describes

Introduction: A more detailed and descriptive way to refer to something within the text.
Definition: “Describes” suggests that the text goes into detail about a particular topic or concept.
Meaning: It means that the text provides a thorough depiction or explanation of something.
Tone: Informative, detailed.
Example: “The text describes the challenges faced by the team during the project.”
Explanation: Use this when the text provides a detailed or vivid portrayal of a situation or concept.

Conclusion

There are numerous ways to reference something that appears in the text, each serving a different tone and purpose depending on the context. By using these 20 alternatives, you can effectively vary your language and keep your writing engaging and diverse. Whether you’re writing informally or academically, you now have a wide range of expressions to choose from.

FAQs

1. Can these phrases be used in academic writing?
Yes, many of these alternatives, especially phrases like “the text specifies” or “the passage states,” are suitable for formal and academic writing.

2. Which phrase works best in a casual conversation?
For casual conversations or less formal writing, phrases like “the text mentions” or “you’ll find in the text” are more suitable.

3. Can I use these phrases in research papers?
Absolutely! Phrases like “according to the text” or “the document indicates” are common in research and scholarly work.

4. How do I choose which phrase to use?
Choose the phrase that best fits the formality of your writing or conversation. For more casual situations, use simpler phrases, and for formal writing, choose more authoritative expressions.