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- 40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays
To be truly brilliant, an essay needs to utilise the right language. You could make a great point, but if it’s not intelligently articulated, you almost needn’t have bothered.
Developing the language skills to build an argument and to write persuasively is crucial if you’re to write outstanding essays every time. In this article, we’re going to equip you with the words and phrases you need to write a top-notch essay, along with examples of how to utilise them.
It’s by no means an exhaustive list, and there will often be other ways of using the words and phrases we describe that we won’t have room to include, but there should be more than enough below to help you make an instant improvement to your essay-writing skills.
If you’re interested in developing your language and persuasive skills, Oxford Royale offers summer courses at its Oxford Summer School , Cambridge Summer School , London Summer School , San Francisco Summer School and Yale Summer School . You can study courses to learn english , prepare for careers in law , medicine , business , engineering and leadership.
General explaining
Let’s start by looking at language for general explanations of complex points.
1. In order to
Usage: “In order to” can be used to introduce an explanation for the purpose of an argument. Example: “In order to understand X, we need first to understand Y.”
2. In other words
Usage: Use “in other words” when you want to express something in a different way (more simply), to make it easier to understand, or to emphasise or expand on a point. Example: “Frogs are amphibians. In other words, they live on the land and in the water.”
3. To put it another way
Usage: This phrase is another way of saying “in other words”, and can be used in particularly complex points, when you feel that an alternative way of wording a problem may help the reader achieve a better understanding of its significance. Example: “Plants rely on photosynthesis. To put it another way, they will die without the sun.”
4. That is to say
Usage: “That is” and “that is to say” can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: “Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.”
5. To that end
Usage: Use “to that end” or “to this end” in a similar way to “in order to” or “so”. Example: “Zoologists have long sought to understand how animals communicate with each other. To that end, a new study has been launched that looks at elephant sounds and their possible meanings.”
Adding additional information to support a point
Students often make the mistake of using synonyms of “and” each time they want to add further information in support of a point they’re making, or to build an argument. Here are some cleverer ways of doing this.
6. Moreover
Usage: Employ “moreover” at the start of a sentence to add extra information in support of a point you’re making. Example: “Moreover, the results of a recent piece of research provide compelling evidence in support of…”
7. Furthermore
Usage:This is also generally used at the start of a sentence, to add extra information. Example: “Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that…”
8. What’s more
Usage: This is used in the same way as “moreover” and “furthermore”. Example: “What’s more, this isn’t the only evidence that supports this hypothesis.”
9. Likewise
Usage: Use “likewise” when you want to talk about something that agrees with what you’ve just mentioned. Example: “Scholar A believes X. Likewise, Scholar B argues compellingly in favour of this point of view.”
10. Similarly
Usage: Use “similarly” in the same way as “likewise”. Example: “Audiences at the time reacted with shock to Beethoven’s new work, because it was very different to what they were used to. Similarly, we have a tendency to react with surprise to the unfamiliar.”
11. Another key thing to remember
Usage: Use the phrase “another key point to remember” or “another key fact to remember” to introduce additional facts without using the word “also”. Example: “As a Romantic, Blake was a proponent of a closer relationship between humans and nature. Another key point to remember is that Blake was writing during the Industrial Revolution, which had a major impact on the world around him.”
12. As well as
Usage: Use “as well as” instead of “also” or “and”. Example: “Scholar A argued that this was due to X, as well as Y.”
13. Not only… but also
Usage: This wording is used to add an extra piece of information, often something that’s in some way more surprising or unexpected than the first piece of information. Example: “Not only did Edmund Hillary have the honour of being the first to reach the summit of Everest, but he was also appointed Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.”
14. Coupled with
Usage: Used when considering two or more arguments at a time. Example: “Coupled with the literary evidence, the statistics paint a compelling view of…”
15. Firstly, secondly, thirdly…
Usage: This can be used to structure an argument, presenting facts clearly one after the other. Example: “There are many points in support of this view. Firstly, X. Secondly, Y. And thirdly, Z.
16. Not to mention/to say nothing of
Usage: “Not to mention” and “to say nothing of” can be used to add extra information with a bit of emphasis. Example: “The war caused unprecedented suffering to millions of people, not to mention its impact on the country’s economy.”
Words and phrases for demonstrating contrast
When you’re developing an argument, you will often need to present contrasting or opposing opinions or evidence – “it could show this, but it could also show this”, or “X says this, but Y disagrees”. This section covers words you can use instead of the “but” in these examples, to make your writing sound more intelligent and interesting.
17. However
Usage: Use “however” to introduce a point that disagrees with what you’ve just said. Example: “Scholar A thinks this. However, Scholar B reached a different conclusion.”
18. On the other hand
Usage: Usage of this phrase includes introducing a contrasting interpretation of the same piece of evidence, a different piece of evidence that suggests something else, or an opposing opinion. Example: “The historical evidence appears to suggest a clear-cut situation. On the other hand, the archaeological evidence presents a somewhat less straightforward picture of what happened that day.”
19. Having said that
Usage: Used in a similar manner to “on the other hand” or “but”. Example: “The historians are unanimous in telling us X, an agreement that suggests that this version of events must be an accurate account. Having said that, the archaeology tells a different story.”
20. By contrast/in comparison
Usage: Use “by contrast” or “in comparison” when you’re comparing and contrasting pieces of evidence. Example: “Scholar A’s opinion, then, is based on insufficient evidence. By contrast, Scholar B’s opinion seems more plausible.”
21. Then again
Usage: Use this to cast doubt on an assertion. Example: “Writer A asserts that this was the reason for what happened. Then again, it’s possible that he was being paid to say this.”
22. That said
Usage: This is used in the same way as “then again”. Example: “The evidence ostensibly appears to point to this conclusion. That said, much of the evidence is unreliable at best.”
Usage: Use this when you want to introduce a contrasting idea. Example: “Much of scholarship has focused on this evidence. Yet not everyone agrees that this is the most important aspect of the situation.”
Adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations
Sometimes, you may need to acknowledge a shortfalling in a piece of evidence, or add a proviso. Here are some ways of doing so.
24. Despite this
Usage: Use “despite this” or “in spite of this” when you want to outline a point that stands regardless of a shortfalling in the evidence. Example: “The sample size was small, but the results were important despite this.”
25. With this in mind
Usage: Use this when you want your reader to consider a point in the knowledge of something else. Example: “We’ve seen that the methods used in the 19th century study did not always live up to the rigorous standards expected in scientific research today, which makes it difficult to draw definite conclusions. With this in mind, let’s look at a more recent study to see how the results compare.”
26. Provided that
Usage: This means “on condition that”. You can also say “providing that” or just “providing” to mean the same thing. Example: “We may use this as evidence to support our argument, provided that we bear in mind the limitations of the methods used to obtain it.”
27. In view of/in light of
Usage: These phrases are used when something has shed light on something else. Example: “In light of the evidence from the 2013 study, we have a better understanding of…”
28. Nonetheless
Usage: This is similar to “despite this”. Example: “The study had its limitations, but it was nonetheless groundbreaking for its day.”
29. Nevertheless
Usage: This is the same as “nonetheless”. Example: “The study was flawed, but it was important nevertheless.”
30. Notwithstanding
Usage: This is another way of saying “nonetheless”. Example: “Notwithstanding the limitations of the methodology used, it was an important study in the development of how we view the workings of the human mind.”
Giving examples
Good essays always back up points with examples, but it’s going to get boring if you use the expression “for example” every time. Here are a couple of other ways of saying the same thing.
31. For instance
Example: “Some birds migrate to avoid harsher winter climates. Swallows, for instance, leave the UK in early winter and fly south…”
32. To give an illustration
Example: “To give an illustration of what I mean, let’s look at the case of…”
Signifying importance
When you want to demonstrate that a point is particularly important, there are several ways of highlighting it as such.
33. Significantly
Usage: Used to introduce a point that is loaded with meaning that might not be immediately apparent. Example: “Significantly, Tacitus omits to tell us the kind of gossip prevalent in Suetonius’ accounts of the same period.”
34. Notably
Usage: This can be used to mean “significantly” (as above), and it can also be used interchangeably with “in particular” (the example below demonstrates the first of these ways of using it). Example: “Actual figures are notably absent from Scholar A’s analysis.”
35. Importantly
Usage: Use “importantly” interchangeably with “significantly”. Example: “Importantly, Scholar A was being employed by X when he wrote this work, and was presumably therefore under pressure to portray the situation more favourably than he perhaps might otherwise have done.”
Summarising
You’ve almost made it to the end of the essay, but your work isn’t over yet. You need to end by wrapping up everything you’ve talked about, showing that you’ve considered the arguments on both sides and reached the most likely conclusion. Here are some words and phrases to help you.
36. In conclusion
Usage: Typically used to introduce the concluding paragraph or sentence of an essay, summarising what you’ve discussed in a broad overview. Example: “In conclusion, the evidence points almost exclusively to Argument A.”
37. Above all
Usage: Used to signify what you believe to be the most significant point, and the main takeaway from the essay. Example: “Above all, it seems pertinent to remember that…”
38. Persuasive
Usage: This is a useful word to use when summarising which argument you find most convincing. Example: “Scholar A’s point – that Constanze Mozart was motivated by financial gain – seems to me to be the most persuasive argument for her actions following Mozart’s death.”
39. Compelling
Usage: Use in the same way as “persuasive” above. Example: “The most compelling argument is presented by Scholar A.”
40. All things considered
Usage: This means “taking everything into account”. Example: “All things considered, it seems reasonable to assume that…”
How many of these words and phrases will you get into your next essay? And are any of your favourite essay terms missing from our list? Let us know in the comments below, or get in touch here to find out more about courses that can help you with your essays.
At Oxford Royale Academy, we offer a number of summer school courses for young people who are keen to improve their essay writing skills. Click here to apply for one of our courses today, including law , business , medicine and engineering .
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10 Other Ways to Say “for Example” in An Essay (with Examples)
Writing a well-structured and engaging essay requires more than just presenting information—it’s about guiding your reader through your thoughts and ideas with smooth transitions and clear illustrations . One phrase that often gets overused is “for example,” which can make your writing feel repetitive and dull to read .
Fortunately, the English language offers a wealth of alternative transition phrases that can add variety and sophistication to your essays. In this blog post, we’ll explore other ways to say “for example” in an essay with usage examples to help you seamlessly incorporate these phrases into your writing.
Whether you’re a student crafting a research paper or a professional putting together a persuasive essay, mastering these transitional phrases will elevate your writing style and keep your readers engaged from start to finish .
Get ready to bid farewell to the monotony of “for example” and discover a world of fresh, expressive alternatives .
What to Say Instead of “For Example” in An Essay
Here are 10 other ways to say “for example” in an essay:
- For instance
- To illustrate
- As an illustration
- Specifically
- In particular
- To give an example
- Take the case of
- Consider the following
1. For instance
The phrase “for instance” is a casual yet clear way to introduce an example that supports your point. It’s like saying, “Here’s a clear example that illustrates what I’m talking about.”
This expression is handy because it seamlessly integrates examples into your narrative without feeling forced or out of place.
It works well in both spoken and written language, offering a smooth transition to your example.
Usage examples:
- I’m proud of your dedication to volunteering, for instance , your weekly commitment to the animal shelter shows your compassion and resilience.
- Your recent project was outstanding, for instance , the innovative design you came up with was both practical and creative.
2. To illustrate
“To illustrate” is a more formal way to introduce an example. It’s as if you’re saying, “Let me paint you a picture to make my point clearer.”
This phrase is particularly useful in academic or professional settings where clarity and depth of explanation are paramount.
It sets the stage for an example that will shed light on the subject matter in a more detailed and vivid manner.
- Your leadership skills have grown remarkably, to illustrate , your handling of the last team project brought out the best in everyone involved.
- You’ve made significant improvements in your communication skills, to illustrate , your recent presentation was both engaging and informative.
3. As an illustration
“As an illustration” is akin to “to illustrate” but often introduces a more detailed or complex example.
This phrase suggests that the upcoming example will serve as a clear, almost pictorial representation of the point being discussed.
It’s particularly useful when the example is not just a fact but a scenario that embodies the point.
- Your creativity knows no bounds, as an illustration , your art project not only won the competition but also sparked a community-wide conversation about environmental conservation.
- Your problem-solving skills are exceptional, as an illustration , the way you navigated the challenges during the software update was both innovative and efficient.
“Such as” is a simple and effective way to introduce examples without making a big shift from your main point.
It’s like casually dropping examples into the conversation or text, making it clear that these are direct instances of what you’re discussing. This expression is versatile and fits well in both formal and informal contexts.
- I am impressed by your academic achievements, such as your recent scholarship award and your publication in the student journal.
- Your kindness and empathy towards others are truly commendable, such as when you helped your classmate understand a complex math problem.
“Namely” is a way to specify or name examples explicitly. It’s like saying, “I’m going to pinpoint exactly what I mean.”
This expression is useful when you want to be very clear and direct about the examples you’re providing, often following a more general statement with specific, illustrative instances.
- Your contributions to the team have been invaluable, namely , your initiative in leading the community outreach program has made a significant impact.
- You have a talent for writing, namely , your essays and stories have not only received high praise from your teachers but have also been published in the school newsletter.
6. Specifically
“Specifically” is used to highlight a particular example with precision and focus.
It tells the reader or listener that you are about to provide a distinct, clear-cut instance that underscores your point.
This term is especially useful when narrowing down from a broad category to a singular, notable example, ensuring that your audience understands exactly which aspect or item you’re referring to.
- Your athletic achievements are truly impressive, specifically , your record-breaking performance at the state championship was a moment of pride for the entire school.
- Your ability to connect with clients is remarkable, specifically , the way you handled the Jones account showed great sensitivity and professionalism.
7. In particular
“In particular” signals that you are singling out an example that is especially noteworthy or relevant among others.
It’s a way of focusing the spotlight on a specific instance, suggesting that while there may be many examples, the one you’re about to mention stands out for some reason.
This expression is useful for drawing attention to a particularly strong or important point.
- You have shown a lot of growth in many areas, in particular , your leadership during the community service project was inspiring to everyone involved.
- Your artistic talents are diverse, in particular , your work in digital art has opened up new avenues for exploration and expression in our art class.
8. To give an example
“To give an example” is a straightforward and clear way to introduce an example. It’s like directly saying, “Let me show you what I mean by providing a specific instance.”
This expression is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, providing a clear signal to the audience that an illustrative example is coming up.
- You’ve been doing an excellent job with your studies, to give an example , your recent project on renewable energy was not only well-researched but also presented with great clarity.
- Your commitment to improving your skills is commendable, to give an example , the extra hours you’ve been putting into practice have paid off in your piano recitals.
9. Take the case of
“Take the case of” invites the audience to consider a specific example as a representative case or scenario.
It’s a more narrative way of introducing an example, almost as if you’re telling a story or presenting a case study.
This expression is particularly effective when the example is a bit more involved or when you want to draw the audience into a more detailed examination of the instance.
- Your dedication to helping others is truly admirable, take the case of the time you organized a fundraiser for the local animal shelter, demonstrating your ability to lead and inspire others for a good cause.
- Your innovative thinking has led to many improvements, take the case of the new filing system you developed, which has greatly increased efficiency in the office.
10. Consider the following
“Consider the following” is a formal and somewhat scholarly way to introduce an example or a series of examples. It’s like inviting the audience to pause and reflect on a specific instance or set of instances that you’re about to present.
This expression is particularly useful in academic writing or presentations where a deeper level of consideration and analysis is expected.
- Your grasp of complex scientific concepts is outstanding, consider the following example: your science fair project on sustainable energy solutions not only showcased your deep understanding but also your ability to apply knowledge in practical ways.
- Your contributions to our team are numerous and valuable, consider the following example: the mentoring program you initiated for new hires has significantly improved their onboarding experience and overall job satisfaction.
Using varied transition phrases like these can make your writing more engaging and prevent overuse of the phrase “for example.” They signal to the reader that you are providing a specific instance or evidence to support your point.
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Words To Use In Essays: Amplifying Your Academic Writing
Use this comprehensive list of words to use in essays to elevate your writing. Make an impression and score higher grades with this guide!
Words play a fundamental role in the domain of essay writing, as they have the power to shape ideas, influence readers, and convey messages with precision and impact. Choosing the right words to use in essays is not merely a matter of filling pages, but rather a deliberate process aimed at enhancing the quality of the writing and effectively communicating complex ideas. In this article, we will explore the importance of selecting appropriate words for essays and provide valuable insights into the types of words that can elevate the essay to new heights.
Words To Use In Essays
Using a wide range of words can make your essay stronger and more impressive. With the incorporation of carefully chosen words that communicate complex ideas with precision and eloquence, the writer can elevate the quality of their essay and captivate readers.
This list serves as an introduction to a range of impactful words that can be integrated into writing, enabling the writer to express thoughts with depth and clarity.
Significantly
Furthermore
Nonetheless
Nevertheless
Consequently
Accordingly
Subsequently
In contrast
Alternatively
Implications
Substantially
Transition Words And Phrases
Transition words and phrases are essential linguistic tools that connect ideas, sentences, and paragraphs within a text. They work like bridges, facilitating the transitions between different parts of an essay or any other written work. These transitional elements conduct the flow and coherence of the writing, making it easier for readers to follow the author’s train of thought.
Here are some examples of common transition words and phrases:
Furthermore: Additionally; moreover.
However: Nevertheless; on the other hand.
In contrast: On the contrary; conversely.
Therefore: Consequently; as a result.
Similarly: Likewise; in the same way.
Moreover: Furthermore; besides.
In addition: Additionally; also.
Nonetheless: Nevertheless; regardless.
Nevertheless: However; even so.
On the other hand: Conversely; in contrast.
These are just a few examples of the many transition words and phrases available. They help create coherence, improve the organization of ideas, and guide readers through the logical progression of the text. When used effectively, transition words and phrases can significantly guide clarity for writing.
Strong Verbs For Academic Writing
Strong verbs are an essential component of academic writing as they add precision, clarity, and impact to sentences. They convey actions, intentions, and outcomes in a more powerful and concise manner. Here are some examples of strong verbs commonly used in academic writing:
Analyze: Examine in detail to understand the components or structure.
Critique: Assess or evaluate the strengths and weaknesses.
Demonstrate: Show the evidence to support a claim or argument.
Illuminate: Clarify or make something clearer.
Explicate: Explain in detail a thorough interpretation.
Synthesize: Combine or integrate information to create a new understanding.
Propose: Put forward or suggest a theory, idea, or solution.
Refute: Disprove or argue against a claim or viewpoint.
Validate: Confirm or prove the accuracy or validity of something.
Advocate: Support or argue in favor of a particular position or viewpoint.
Adjectives And Adverbs For Academic Essays
Useful adjectives and adverbs are valuable tools in academic writing as they enhance the description, precision, and depth of arguments and analysis. They provide specific details, emphasize key points, and add nuance to writing. Here are some examples of useful adjectives and adverbs commonly used in academic essays:
Comprehensive: Covering all aspects or elements; thorough.
Crucial: Extremely important or essential.
Prominent: Well-known or widely recognized; notable.
Substantial: Considerable in size, extent, or importance.
Valid: Well-founded or logically sound; acceptable or authoritative.
Effectively: In a manner that produces the desired result or outcome.
Significantly: To a considerable extent or degree; notably.
Consequently: As a result or effect of something.
Precisely: Exactly or accurately; with great attention to detail.
Critically: In a careful and analytical manner; with careful evaluation or assessment.
Words To Use In The Essay Introduction
The words used in the essay introduction play a crucial role in capturing the reader’s attention and setting the tone for the rest of the essay. They should be engaging, informative, and persuasive. Here are some examples of words that can be effectively used in the essay introduction:
Intriguing: A word that sparks curiosity and captures the reader’s interest from the beginning.
Compelling: Conveys the idea that the topic is interesting and worth exploring further.
Provocative: Creates a sense of controversy or thought-provoking ideas.
Insightful: Suggests that the essay will produce valuable and thought-provoking insights.
Startling: Indicates that the essay will present surprising or unexpected information or perspectives.
Relevant: Emphasizes the significance of the topic and its connection to broader issues or current events.
Timely: Indicates that the essay addresses a subject of current relevance or importance.
Thoughtful: Implies that the essay will offer well-considered and carefully developed arguments.
Persuasive: Suggests that the essay will present compelling arguments to convince the reader.
Captivating: Indicates that the essay will hold the reader’s attention and be engaging throughout.
Words To Use In The Body Of The Essay
The words used in the body of the essay are essential for effectively conveying ideas, providing evidence, and developing arguments. They should be clear, precise, and demonstrate a strong command of the subject matter. Here are some examples of words that can be used in the body of the essay:
Evidence: When presenting supporting information or data, words such as “data,” “research,” “studies,” “findings,” “examples,” or “statistics” can be used to strengthen arguments.
Analysis: To discuss and interpret the evidence, words like “analyze,” “examine,” “explore,” “interpret,” or “assess” can be employed to demonstrate a critical evaluation of the topic.
Comparison: When drawing comparisons or making contrasts, words like “similarly,” “likewise,” “in contrast,” “on the other hand,” or “conversely” can be used to highlight similarities or differences.
Cause and effect: To explain the relationship between causes and consequences, words such as “because,” “due to,” “leads to,” “results in,” or “causes” can be utilized.
Sequence: When discussing a series of events or steps, words like “first,” “next,” “then,” “finally,” “subsequently,” or “consequently” can be used to indicate the order or progression.
Emphasis: To emphasize a particular point or idea, words such as “notably,” “significantly,” “crucially,” “importantly,” or “remarkably” can be employed.
Clarification: When providing further clarification or elaboration, words like “specifically,” “in other words,” “for instance,” “to illustrate,” or “to clarify” can be used.
Integration: To show the relationship between different ideas or concepts, words such as “moreover,” “furthermore,” “additionally,” “likewise,” or “similarly” can be utilized.
Conclusion: When summarizing or drawing conclusions, words like “in conclusion,” “to summarize,” “overall,” “in summary,” or “to conclude” can be employed to wrap up ideas.
Remember to use these words appropriately and contextually, ensuring they strengthen the coherence and flow of arguments. They should serve as effective transitions and connectors between ideas, enhancing the overall clarity and persuasiveness of the essay.
Words To Use In Essay Conclusion
The words used in the essay conclusion are crucial for effectively summarizing the main points, reinforcing arguments, and leaving a lasting impression on the reader. They should bring a sense of closure to the essay while highlighting the significance of ideas. Here are some examples of words that can be used in the essay conclusion:
Summary: To summarize the main points, these words can be used “in summary,” “to sum up,” “in conclusion,” “to recap,” or “overall.”
Reinforcement: To reinforce arguments and emphasize their importance, words such as “crucial,” “essential,” “significant,” “noteworthy,” or “compelling” can be employed.
Implication: To discuss the broader implications of ideas or findings, words like “consequently,” “therefore,” “thus,” “hence,” or “as a result” can be utilized.
Call to action: If applicable, words that encourage further action or reflection can be used, such as “we must,” “it is essential to,” “let us consider,” or “we should.”
Future perspective: To discuss future possibilities or developments related to the topic, words like “potential,” “future research,” “emerging trends,” or “further investigation” can be employed.
Reflection: To reflect on the significance or impact of arguments, words such as “profound,” “notable,” “thought-provoking,” “transformative,” or “perspective-shifting” can be used.
Final thought: To leave a lasting impression, words or phrases that summarize the main idea or evoke a sense of thoughtfulness can be used, such as “food for thought,” “in light of this,” “to ponder,” or “to consider.”
How To Improve Essay Writing Vocabulary
Improving essay writing vocabulary is essential for effectively expressing ideas, demonstrating a strong command of the language, and engaging readers. Here are some strategies to enhance the essay writing vocabulary:
- Read extensively: Reading a wide range of materials, such as books, articles, and essays, can give various writing styles, topics, and vocabulary. Pay attention to new words and their usage, and try incorporating them into the writing.
- Use a dictionary and thesaurus: Look up unfamiliar words in a dictionary to understand their meanings and usage. Additionally, utilize a thesaurus to find synonyms and antonyms to expand word choices and avoid repetition.
- Create a word bank: To create a word bank, read extensively, write down unfamiliar or interesting words, and explore their meanings and usage. Organize them by categories or themes for easy reference, and practice incorporating them into writing to expand the vocabulary.
- Contextualize vocabulary: Simply memorizing new words won’t be sufficient; it’s crucial to understand their proper usage and context. Pay attention to how words are used in different contexts, sentence structures, and rhetorical devices.
How To Add Additional Information To Support A Point
When writing an essay and wanting to add additional information to support a point, you can use various transitional words and phrases. Here are some examples:
Furthermore: Add more information or evidence to support the previous point.
Additionally: Indicates an additional supporting idea or evidence.
Moreover: Emphasizes the importance or significance of the added information.
In addition: Signals the inclusion of another supporting detail.
Furthermore, it is important to note: Introduces an additional aspect or consideration related to the topic.
Not only that, but also: Highlights an additional point that strengthens the argument.
Equally important: Emphasizes the equal significance of the added information.
Another key point: Introduces another important supporting idea.
It is worth noting: Draws attention to a noteworthy detail that supports the point being made.
Additionally, it is essential to consider: Indicates the need to consider another aspect or perspective.
Using these transitional words and phrases will help you seamlessly integrate additional information into your essay, enhancing the clarity and persuasiveness of your arguments.
Words And Phrases That Demonstrate Contrast
When crafting an essay, it is crucial to effectively showcase contrast, enabling the presentation of opposing ideas or the highlighting of differences between concepts. The adept use of suitable words and phrases allows for the clear communication of contrast, bolstering the strength of arguments. Consider the following examples of commonly employed words and phrases to illustrate the contrast in essays:
However: e.g., “The experiment yielded promising results; however, further analysis is needed to draw conclusive findings.”
On the other hand: e.g., “Some argue for stricter gun control laws, while others, on the other hand, advocate for individual rights to bear arms.”
Conversely: e.g., “While the study suggests a positive correlation between exercise and weight loss, conversely, other research indicates that diet plays a more significant role.”
Nevertheless: e.g., “The data shows a decline in crime rates; nevertheless, public safety remains a concern for many citizens.”
In contrast: e.g., “The economic policies of Country A focus on free-market principles. In contrast, Country B implements more interventionist measures.”
Despite: e.g., “Despite the initial setbacks, the team persevered and ultimately achieved success.”
Although: e.g., “Although the participants had varying levels of experience, they all completed the task successfully.”
While: e.g., “While some argue for stricter regulations, others contend that personal responsibility should prevail.”
Words To Use For Giving Examples
When writing an essay and providing examples to illustrate your points, you can use a variety of words and phrases to introduce those examples. Here are some examples:
For instance: Introduces a specific example to support or illustrate your point.
For example: Give an example to clarify or demonstrate your argument.
Such as: Indicates that you are providing a specific example or examples.
To illustrate: Signals that you are using an example to explain or emphasize your point.
One example is: Introduces a specific instance that exemplifies your argument.
In particular: Highlights a specific example that is especially relevant to your point.
As an illustration: Introduces an example that serves as a visual or concrete representation of your point.
A case in point: Highlights a specific example that serves as evidence or proof of your argument.
To demonstrate: Indicates that you are providing an example to show or prove your point.
To exemplify: Signals that you are using an example to illustrate or clarify your argument.
Using these words and phrases will help you effectively incorporate examples into your essay, making your arguments more persuasive and relatable. Remember to give clear and concise examples that directly support your main points.
Words To Signifying Importance
When writing an essay and wanting to signify the importance of a particular point or idea, you can use various words and phrases to convey this emphasis. Here are some examples:
Crucially: Indicates that the point being made is of critical importance.
Significantly: Highlights the importance or significance of the idea or information.
Importantly: Draws attention to the crucial nature of the point being discussed.
Notably: Emphasizes that the information or idea is particularly worthy of attention.
It is vital to note: Indicates that the point being made is essential and should be acknowledged.
It should be emphasized: Draws attention to the need to give special importance or focus to the point being made.
A key consideration is: Highlight that the particular idea or information is a central aspect of the discussion.
It is critical to recognize: Emphasizes that the understanding or acknowledgment of the point is crucial.
Using these words and phrases will help you convey the importance and significance of specific points or ideas in your essay, ensuring that readers recognize their significance and impact on the overall argument.
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Synonyms for Us
260 other terms for us - words and phrases with similar meaning.
Overused Words And Alternatives To Use Instead
Being a creative writer can be a lot of fun. Whether you’re writing novels, short stories, fan fiction, or even poetry, you can create worlds. Unfortunately, being a creative writer can also be really challenging. It’s not just difficult to imagine new things all the time—coming up with new and interesting ways to say things is also part of the challenge.
There are some words in creative writing that are terribly overused and common. Luckily, a good dictionary and thesaurus can work wonders on strengthening your writing.
So, we’ve rounded up some of the words writers most often use over and over. We’re not saying you should never use these words, but there are more interesting alternatives you might want to consider next time you sit down to write.
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Writing strong dialogue can be difficult. Not only is it hard to write as people talk, it’s hard to incorporate dialogue naturally into a narrative.
Writers typically default to the straightforward verb said to indicate dialogue. This is not always a problem; readers tend to skim over the word without noticing its overuse. However, said isn’t always the only (or best) word you can use. For example:
He said, “She is really smart.”
She said, “No, she is not.”
He said, “Yes, she is.”
Zzzz … snoozefest.
There are lots of good alternatives for said to make dialogue a lot more dynamic and engaging. For example, you could substitute said with a verb like:
- articulated
Check out that same dialogue (from above) with our new words:
He asserted, “She is really smart.”
She retorted, “No, she is not.”
He concluded, “Yes, she is.”
OK, still not the most exciting dialogue ever, but you get the point.
Another verb that can be quickly overused in creative writing is moved .
It’s the most bread-and-butter word to express that a character is doing some kind of action. But, like said , it can get really boring. Not only that, it’s not as descriptive as some alternative verbs, such as:
The word moved can serve an important purpose, but if you find yourself using it too many times, try one of these instead.
Amazing is an amazing word. And it’s so amazing how many amazing uses it has.
Is your head spinning yet? Do you really understand what we’re trying to say?
Amazing has the distinction of being not only an overused word in creative writing, but also in daily life.
While amazing initially referred to something that causes astonishment or wonderment, now it is used to refer to anything a notch up from “just OK.”
If you find yourself reaching for this adjective, try to drill down and really think about what you’re trying to express. Some alternatives are:
- unbelievable
Very is a modifier that we use all the time in daily life, no problem-o. On the page, though, very is kind of flat. It’s an adverb that’s used for emphasis, but if it’s overused it loses some of its punch.
Instead of using very a hundred million times in your creative writing (and definitely don’t use it more than once in a row, like “this is very, very, very boring”), there are tons of other alternatives you can use for emphasis. Some of our favorites adverbs are:
That said, sometimes it’s enough to let the narrative speak for itself. If you’re tempted to use a modifier for emphasis, go back over the sentence and ask yourself if it’s truly necessary. Sometimes a light touch, like very , can actually be best.
Love is a wonderful thing. We love love. Who doesn’t?
But love is a word whose meaning is notoriously hard to pin down. When you’re writing about feelings of great affection, romantic or otherwise, love might seem like an obvious word to use. But we recommend using the word love sparingly, like nutmeg. Or salt. Love can be either a noun or a verb. If you’re using love as a noun, such as “I felt a strong feeling of love,” consider some of the following alternatives:
- infatuation
- appreciation
If you’re using love as a verb, as in “I love you,” we recommend some of these alternatives:
- be attached to
There’s nothing wrong with the classic love , but consider some of these options next time you put pen to paper.
Look is another basic verb that is often overused, similar to said and moved . In boring writing, characters are always just looking, whether at objects or each other.
But there are so many more exciting ways to describe someone experiencing something via sight.
For example, there are verbs like:
fAh, thing. We’ve saved the worst for last. No offense to The Thing , thing is like a lead balloon in the middle of a story.
We have an entire thesaurus (and dictionary of course) full of thousands of vibrant, specific, interesting words to replace the imprecise, overworked noun thing .
Next time you find yourself describing something as a thing , take another pass at it. Dig in deep and use a word that really conveys what you’re talking about. Consider if the thing you’re referring to is an emotion, a particular object, or an idea and, then, name it.
The thesaurus is your friend. Don’t hesitate to pull it up and take a look around to find the bon mot , the just-right word or expression, to take the place of thing .
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Overall Synonyms: List of 25 Examples
Krystal N. Craiker
Overall means to take all parts into account or to look at something as a whole.
In essays and business writing in particular, it is an overused word. Luckily, there are many synonyms for overall that you can use.
For the purpose of this article, we are not talking about the loose protective coverall clothing item called overalls. Instead, we are talking about the adjective and adverb overall .
We have curated a list of 25 words you can use in lieu of overall .
Overall Synonyms in Emails
Overall synonyms in creative writing, overall synonyms in essay writing, final thoughts.
Business emails and other business communications use the word overall to mean “in general.” But there are many related words you can use instead.
Here are some overall synonyms for business writing:
- Principal/principally
- All things considered
- Comprehensive
- Across-the-board
Let’s look at a couple of these synonyms for overall in example sentences.
Original: Overall , the report shows promising results. With a synonym: As a whole , the report shows promising results.
Original: Our overall growth this quarter trended upward. With a synonym: Our across-the-board growth this quarter trended upward.
Overall isn’t as commonly used in creative writing, but it can become a crutch word, which is a word a writer overuses and leans on too heavily.
Creative writers should aim for a more vivid description rather than using a vague adverb or adjective like overall .
If you do need some synonyms for overall in your fiction or creative writing, here are some you could use:
- A great degree
- Collective/collectively
- All-embracing
Here’s an example of how you might use an overall synonym in your creative writing.
Original: The pirates were overall brave and passionate. With a synonym: The pirates were collectively brave and passionate.
Academic writing is another place that overall shows up frequently. It’s often used to make sweeping observations about data or other information.
Freshen up your essays and academic writing by using synonyms for overall . Let’s check out a few general synonyms you can use:
- A large extent
- A wide scope
- For the most part
- Global/globally
- Universal/universally
- Generally speaking
- Predominantly
Here is how using a synonym for overall might look in an essay.
Original: Early literacy skills show an overall positive effect on communication skills. With a synonym: Early literacy skills show a predominantly positive effect on communication skills.
You can use any of the synonyms in this article in any situation where they are appropriate. Sometimes, it might be beneficial to rearrange a sentence to avoid using overall altogether.
ProWritingAid can help you with overused words like overall . Simply click on the Overused Report to see which words you use too often.
You can also use our in-tool thesaurus by double-clicking on a word to see synonym suggestions.
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Whether you are writing a novel, essay, article, or email, good writing is an essential part of communicating your ideas., this guide contains the 20 most important writing tips and techniques from a wide range of professional writers..
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Krystal N. Craiker is the Writing Pirate, an indie romance author and blog manager at ProWritingAid. She sails the seven internet seas, breaking tropes and bending genres. She has a background in anthropology and education, which brings fresh perspectives to her romance novels. When she’s not daydreaming about her next book or article, you can find her cooking gourmet gluten-free cuisine, laughing at memes, and playing board games. Krystal lives in Dallas, Texas with her husband, child, and basset hound.
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Synonyms of essays
- as in articles
- as in attempts
- as in tests
- as in tries
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Thesaurus Definition of essays
(Entry 1 of 2)
Synonyms & Similar Words
- dissertations
- commentaries
- compositions
- write - ups
- discussions
- prolegomena
- expositions
- undertakings
- trial and errors
- experiments
- experimentations
Thesaurus Definition of essays (Entry 2 of 2)
- has a go at
- tries one's hand (at)
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Thesaurus Entries Near essays
Cite this entry.
“Essays.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/essays. Accessed 21 Jun. 2024.
More from Merriam-Webster on essays
Nglish: Translation of essays for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of essays for Arabic Speakers
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to become dry, smaller, and covered with lines as if by crushing or folding, or to make something do this
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14 Other Words for “Said” in an Essay
You want to sound as engaging and interesting as possible when writing an essay, and using words like “said” might prevent that.
So, if you’re about to use “said” for the umpteenth time, you’re in luck!
We have gathered some alternatives to show you other ways to say “said” in an essay that are bound to keep the reader entertained.
Other Ways to Say “Said”
Key takeaways.
- “Stated” is a great essay word that shows you are quoting a specific statement from a trustworthy source.
- “Declared” is a great way to describe an announcement or official quote.
- “Mentioned” is a bit simpler and allows you to highlight a quote that’s relevant to your essay.
Keep reading to find out how to quote what someone said in an essay. We’ll go over the three most effective terms to help spice up your academic writing.
One of the most common ways to replace “said” in an essay is “stated.” It’s a great formal synonym that helps to keep things direct and clear for the reader.
It works well before a quote. You should write “stated” to clarify that you’re about to run a quote by the reader.
Of course, you can’t claim that someone “stated” something without backing it up with evidence.
The last thing you’ll want is for the reader to look into the quote and find out it was never actually said.
But, as long as you’ve done your research, this works well. Good academic phrases that start with “stated” help you to establish a clear quote relating to the bulk of your essay.
These essay samples will also help you understand it:
It’s clear that he stated “time is the killer of all things.” However, nobody really understood the prophetic meaning behind it.
She stated that “it’s time to make the changes you want to see in the world.” That’s what led most people to join the revolution.
For a more impactful alternative, you can use “declared.”
You won’t find “declared” quite as often as “said,” but it’s still an incredibly good term to include.
It’s a formal synonym. It also shows that someone announced something important .
Generally, “declared” comes before compelling quotes. It might be more suitable to use it when quoting a famous politician or monarch of some kind.
It’s a surefire way to engage the reader and spark their imagination.
We highly recommend it when you’re certain that it belongs before a quote and will allow you to establish a more powerful meaning behind it.
Perhaps these essay samples will also help you with it:
The king declared “good things will come to those who ask me for them.” He was a very proud man.
She declared that “this was going to be the only time she offered her services to those in need.”
Feel free to use “mentioned,” too. It’s another word you can use instead of “said” in an essay that’ll keep things engaging for the reader.
It’s much subtler than the other phrases. It suggests that someone has made a brief comment about something, and you’d like to quote it for the reader.
Don’t worry; it’s still a good formal synonym. However, you should use it when the quote isn’t the most important part of your essay.
Quotes are there to add a bit of context for the reader. So, they’re not always needed to improve an essay.
“Mentioned” is a simple word that allows you to include a short but interesting quote . However, it usually isn’t as impactful as saying something like “declared” or “exclaimed.”
You can also refer to these essay examples:
The politician mentioned that “we cannot know what we haven’t already experienced.” That resonated with me.
It was clear that he mentioned “things were bound to change soon,” so they had to figure out what he meant.
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What to Say Instead of "the text states". 1. The document asserts. "The document asserts" is a formal way to convey that the text presents a clear statement or position on a topic. It implies a level of authority and confidence in the information presented.
The objective case of we. ourselves. we. all of us. each of us. each one of us. us here. our own selves. us selves.
50 linking words to use in academic writing. academic writing. linkers. essay writing. thesis. ESL. English. It's very common for students to use long words they don't understand very well in their essays and theses because they have a certain idea of what academic writing should be.
If you're struggling to choose the right words for your essay, don't worry—you've come to the right place! In this article, we've compiled a list of over 300 words and phrases to use in the introduction, body, and conclusion of your essay. Contents: Words to Use in the Essay Introduction. Words to Use in the Body of the Essay.
4. That is to say. Usage: "That is" and "that is to say" can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: "Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.". 5. To that end. Usage: Use "to that end" or "to this end" in a similar way to "in order to" or "so".
Here are 10 other ways to say "for example" in an essay: 1. For instance. The phrase "for instance" is a casual yet clear way to introduce an example that supports your point. It's like saying, "Here's a clear example that illustrates what I'm talking about.".
Here are some examples of strong verbs commonly used in academic writing: Analyze: Examine in detail to understand the components or structure. Critique: Assess or evaluate the strengths and weaknesses. Demonstrate: Show the evidence to support a claim or argument. Illuminate: Clarify or make something clearer.
kafa. ofusa. usona. you and i. overall america. ameri. Another way to say Us? Synonyms for Us (other words and phrases for Us).
Synonyms for ESSAY: article, paper, dissertation, theme, thesis, composition, treatise, editorial; Antonyms of ESSAY: quit, drop, give up
Find 80 different ways to say ESSAY, along with antonyms, related words, and example sentences at Thesaurus.com.
Do you find yourself reusing certain words in your writing? We have rounded up the most common words and alternatives to keep your writing fresh.
33 Transition Words and Phrases. 'Besides,' 'furthermore,' 'although,' and other words to help you jump from one idea to the next. Transitional terms give writers the opportunity to prepare readers for a new idea, connecting the previous sentence to the next one. Many transitional words are nearly synonymous: words that broadly indicate that ...
It's true: there are other ways to say "in conclusion" that don't feel as trite. Can't think of any? Find 57 different words and phrases right here.
KEY TAKEAWAYS. "This shows" is a common phrase used in essays to demonstrate how one thing leads to another. "This demonstrates" is a great formal synonym that'll help to spice up your academic writing. Try "suggesting" as an alternative that shows how one thing could have created another. Keep reading to learn different ways to ...
Overall Synonyms: List of 25 Examples. Krystal N. Craiker. Content Manager and Indie Author. Overall means to take all parts into account or to look at something as a whole. In essays and business writing in particular, it is an overused word. Luckily, there are many synonyms for overall that you can use. For the purpose of this article, we are ...
Let us hear the rest. Let us examine our prison and see what it is like. What's going to become of us now? Synonyms for US: united states, united-states-of-america, america, the States, us, usa, United States government, united states, US government.
Looking for other ways to say for example after using it for the umpteenth time? No worries. Discover a wide variety of options to replace it here!
This implies we still have a lot of work to do before we can finalize anything. 6. Proving. "Proving" is a word you can use instead of "this shows" in an essay. It comes from "this proves," showing how something creates another situation. Proof is often the most important in scientific studies and arguments.
Synonyms for ESSAYS: articles, papers, themes, dissertations, editorials, treatises, commentaries, compositions; Antonyms of ESSAYS: drops, gives up, quits
ESSAY - Synonyms, related words and examples | Cambridge English Thesaurus
Stated. One of the most common ways to replace "said" in an essay is "stated.". It's a great formal synonym that helps to keep things direct and clear for the reader. It works well before a quote. You should write "stated" to clarify that you're about to run a quote by the reader. Of course, you can't claim that someone ...
Synonyms for essay include article, dissertation, paper, treatise, thesis, discourse, study, composition, critique and exposition. Find more similar words at ...
2. Mentioned. Another way to say "said" is "mentioned.". It's a formal synonym that keeps things fresh when quoting information. Generally, "mentioned" refers to less important information. If you "mention" something, it's likely that it's not the most important thing for a reader to pay attention to.