Effective communication is about more than just conveying information—it’s about expressing thoughts with warmth, care, and thoughtfulness. When writing or speaking, the words we choose can make a world of difference in how our message is received.
For those of us looking to connect on a deeper level, finding alternative ways to say something as simple as “The author states” can make a message feel more personal and engaging. Whether you’re writing an academic paper, a professional email, or even a friendly discussion, these alternatives will help you communicate with empathy and clarity. Here are 30 thoughtful alternatives to “The author states”—each with its own nuance and context.
What Does “The Author States” Mean?
The phrase “The author states” is commonly used to reference what someone has written or declared in a text, book, article, or report. It’s a way of introducing or attributing a statement or argument to a specific individual. However, the phrase can feel a little stiff or impersonal at times. By exploring alternatives, you can choose expressions that better fit the tone of your writing or conversation, making it more engaging.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “The Author States”?
Yes, “The author states” is perfectly professional and polite, especially in formal, academic, or research contexts. It maintains neutrality and provides a direct reference to the author’s point. However, it can come off as overly formal or repetitive in more casual or conversational contexts, where a softer or more natural expression may be preferred.
Advantages or Disadvantages of Using “The Author States”
Advantages:
- Clear and straightforward in professional and academic writing.
- Establishes credibility by directly referencing the author’s opinion.
- Keeps the tone neutral and objective.
Disadvantages:
- Can sound repetitive and mechanical in longer pieces.
- May seem impersonal or distant in informal writing.
Synonyms For The Author States
- The Author Suggests
- The Author Proposes
- The Author Believes
- The Author Argues
- The Author Explains
- The Author Observes
- The Author Highlights
- The Author States Clearly
- The Author Suggests with Conviction
- The Author Claims
- The Author Warns
- The Author Concludes
- The Author Indicates
- The Author Affirms
- The Author Illustrates
- The Author Emphasises
- The Author Remarks
- The Author Notes
- The Author Adds
- The Author Comments
- The Author Mentions
- The Author Questions
- The Author Reflects
- The Author Responds
- The Author Points Out
- The Author Expresses
- The Author Elaborates
- The Author Details
- The Author Advocates
- The Author Justifies
1. “The Author Suggests”
Meaning: The author implies or offers a suggestion based on their understanding.
Definition: When someone “suggests,” they are offering a recommendation or point of view, but they aren’t asserting it as an absolute truth. It’s more of a gentle way of guiding the audience toward an idea.
Explanation: This phrasing softens the statement, showing that the author is offering their opinion rather than presenting it as a definitive fact.
Scenario Example: “In the final chapter, the author suggests that we rethink our approach to traditional education.”
Best Use: Ideal for conveying opinions or recommendations in a less assertive manner.
Tone: Respectful, thoughtful, and inviting.
2. “The Author Proposes”
Meaning: The author puts forward an idea or plan for consideration.
Definition: A more formal expression, indicating that the author is offering a suggestion or viewpoint for others to think about.
Explanation: “Proposes” suggests a more formal or structured suggestion than “suggests.” It’s often used when the author is offering a solution or new concept.
Scenario Example: “In her article, the author proposes a new way to approach climate change by focusing on urban solutions.”
Best Use: Suitable for presenting new concepts or solutions.
Tone: Professional, thoughtful, and solution-oriented.
3. “The Author Believes”
Meaning: The author holds a particular belief or conviction about a subject.
Definition: When an author “believes,” they are expressing their own views or opinions, implying confidence in their perspective without asserting it as an undeniable truth.
Explanation: This phrase emphasises the author’s personal viewpoint and conveys a sense of conviction.
Scenario Example: “The author believes that empathy should be the cornerstone of leadership.”
Best Use: Appropriate for emphasising personal viewpoints or arguments.
Tone: Conviction, personal, and engaged.
4. “The Author Argues”
Meaning: The author presents a reasoned case or position on an issue.
Definition: When you say that the author “argues,” it means they are making a case for a specific point of view, typically supported by evidence or reasoning.
Explanation: This phrase is used in more formal or academic settings, where the author is defending a particular position or theory.
Scenario Example: “In the essay, the author argues that technology is reshaping our social relationships.”
Best Use: Ideal for analytical or argumentative writing.
Tone: Assertive, intellectual, and reasoned.
5. “The Author Explains”
Meaning: The author provides a detailed clarification or description.
Definition: This term emphasises the clarity and depth with which the author presents their ideas or concepts.
Explanation: When you use “explains,” it implies that the author has gone to great lengths to make their point understandable to the audience.
Scenario Example: “The author explains the complexities of human behaviour through a psychological lens.”
Best Use: Best for explanatory or informative contexts.
Tone: Clear, instructional, and supportive.
6. “The Author Observes”
Meaning: The author comments or notes something, often based on careful analysis.
Definition: “Observes” suggests a more reflective or thoughtful way of presenting information, often highlighting something interesting or noteworthy.
Explanation: This is a more neutral and subtle way of introducing an author’s thoughts or findings.
Scenario Example: “The author observes that despite progress, inequality continues to be a pressing issue.”
Best Use: Suitable for analytical or reflective writing.
Tone: Neutral, reflective, and thoughtful.
7. “The Author Highlights”
Meaning: The author draws attention to something important.
Definition: “Highlights” indicates that the author is emphasising key points or drawing focus to particular aspects of the topic.
Explanation: This phrase is often used to stress important ideas, facts, or conclusions.
Scenario Example: “In her work, the author highlights the importance of community engagement in combating climate change.”
Best Use: Ideal for emphasising key points or conclusions.
Tone: Focused, informative, and enthusiastic.
8. “The Author States Clearly”
Meaning: The author articulates their point in a clear and direct manner.
Definition: This phrase indicates that the author has expressed their opinion or argument in an unambiguous and transparent way.
Explanation: It can be used to emphasise clarity and precision in the author’s writing.
Scenario Example: “The author states clearly that understanding mental health is crucial for preventing societal harm.”
Best Use: Appropriate when clarity is a key part of the author’s message.
Tone: Direct, transparent, and concise.
9. “The Author Suggests With Conviction”
Meaning: The author presents a suggestion or idea with confidence and determination.
Definition: This alternative is more forceful than a simple “suggests,” indicating the author’s belief in the importance of their suggestion.
Explanation: The phrase implies that the suggestion is not just an opinion, but one the author believes is valuable or essential.
Scenario Example: “The author suggests with conviction that education systems need urgent reform.”
Best Use: When the author’s recommendation is presented confidently.
Tone: Persuasive, confident, and determined.
10. “The Author Claims”
Meaning: The author asserts something as true, often in a more declarative or bold manner.
Definition: “Claims” indicates a statement that the author is putting forward, often without offering solid proof or evidence.
Explanation: This phrase may imply a bit of controversy or an unproven assertion, depending on the context.
Scenario Example: “The author claims that artificial intelligence will revolutionise industries worldwide.”
Best Use: Best used when presenting a statement that might be debated or challenged.
Tone: Bold, assertive, and potentially controversial.
11. “The Author Warns”
Meaning: The author cautions about a potential danger or issue.
Definition: When an author “warns,” they are indicating that there could be negative consequences to a certain action, idea, or situation.
Explanation: This phrase conveys a sense of urgency and concern, often used in critical or cautionary contexts.
Scenario Example: “The author warns that neglecting environmental concerns may lead to irreversible damage.”
Best Use: Ideal for cautionary or advisory writing.
Tone: Cautious, urgent, and serious.
12. “The Author Concludes”
Meaning: The author draws a final judgement or decision after presenting their arguments.
Definition: “Concludes” is often used at the end of a piece of writing, summarising the main points and delivering a final statement or insight.
Explanation: This is useful when you want to reference the author’s final thought or the outcome of their reasoning.
Scenario Example: “The author concludes that societal change is inevitable, but its pace depends on political will.”
Best Use: Perfect for summing up a piece of writing or discussion.
Tone: Final, decisive, and reflective.
13. “The Author Indicates”
Meaning: The author points to or suggests something without making an explicit statement.
Definition: This alternative is used when the author hints or subtly implies a point, often without directly stating it.
Explanation: “Indicates” suggests that the author is giving a sign or signal rather than making a bold claim.
Scenario Example: “The author indicates that a more sustainable approach to agriculture is urgently needed.”
Best Use: Ideal for suggesting or hinting at something without explicitly saying it.
Tone: Subtle, indirect, and thought-provoking.
14. “The Author Affirms”
Meaning: The author asserts something positively, showing confidence in their statement.
Definition: “Affirms” suggests that the author is confirming or supporting a particular position or fact with certainty.
Explanation: This phrase emphasises the author’s confidence in the truth or validity of their statement.
Scenario Example: “The author affirms the importance of collaboration in achieving long-term success.”
Best Use: Useful for reinforcing or confirming an important point.
Tone: Assertive, supportive, and confident.
15. “The Author Illustrates”
Meaning: The author provides examples or explanations to make a point clearer.
Definition: “Illustrates” means the author uses examples, anecdotes, or other methods to make a concept easier to understand.
Explanation: This phrase is used when the author is making their point clearer by showing or demonstrating it with relevant examples.
Scenario Example: “The author illustrates the concept of human evolution through numerous fossil records.”
Best Use: Great for explanatory or educational contexts.
Tone: Informative, illustrative, and clear.
16. The Author Emphasises
Meaning: The author places special importance on a particular idea or argument.
Definition: “Emphasises” is used when an author wants to make sure a certain point stands out or is given extra weight in their discussion.
Explanation: This phrase highlights key takeaways or points that the author considers crucial.
Scenario Example:
“Throughout the book, the author emphasises the importance of self-care in maintaining productivity.”
Best Use: Great for discussions where the author is stressing an important idea.
Tone: Strong, persuasive, and deliberate.
17. The Author Remarks
Meaning: The author makes a comment or expresses a thought in passing.
Definition: This phrase suggests a more casual or side note kind of statement rather than a deeply analysed argument.
Explanation: “Remarks” is often used when the author is making an interesting observation that isn’t necessarily the main focus.
Scenario Example:
“In his memoir, the author remarks that travel has profoundly shaped his worldview.”
Best Use: Ideal for instances where the author makes an insightful but not overly detailed comment.
Tone: Observational, light, and conversational.
18. The Author Notes
Meaning: The author makes a recorded observation or acknowledges a fact.
Definition: “Notes” implies that the author is drawing attention to something but not necessarily making a strong argument about it.
Explanation: This phrase is great for neutral and factual statements.
Scenario Example:
“In her research paper, the author notes that urbanisation has led to both economic growth and social displacement.”
Best Use: Perfect for formal writing or factual references.
Tone: Neutral, informative, and objective.
19. The Author Adds
Meaning: The author provides extra information to support or expand on a previous point.
Definition: “Adds” suggests that the author is supplementing their original statement with additional relevant details.
Explanation: This is useful when mentioning supplementary points in an argument.
Scenario Example:
“After discussing the benefits of meditation, the author adds that it can also improve focus and emotional regulation.”
Best Use: Best for expanding on key points or introducing supporting details.
Tone: Informative, expanding, and supportive.
20. The Author Comments
Meaning: The author provides insight or an opinion on a subject.
Definition: “Comments” implies that the author is offering a perspective, often with a neutral or reflective tone.
Explanation: This phrase is often used when the author is sharing their thoughts in a more conversational or less formal manner.
Scenario Example:
“In the article, the author comments on the rise of remote work and its potential long-term effects on the workforce.”
Best Use: Great for analysis and opinion pieces.
Tone: Conversational, reflective, and analytical.
21. The Author Mentions
Meaning: The author briefly refers to something without going into much detail.
Definition: “Mentions” is a subtle way of introducing information without making it the focus.
Explanation: This phrase is useful for referencing something without elaborating too much.
Scenario Example:
“During the interview, the author mentions a new project she is currently working on.”
Best Use: Perfect for casual or passing references.
Tone: Light, indirect, and neutral.
22. The Author Questions
Meaning: The author raises a question or challenges an idea.
Definition: “Questions” implies that the author is sceptical or curious about a topic, prompting discussion.
Explanation: This phrase is effective when the author is engaging in critical thinking or encouraging debate.
Scenario Example:
“The author questions whether modern education systems are truly preparing students for real-world challenges.”
Best Use: Ideal for critical analysis and inquiry-based writing.
Tone: Thought-provoking, analytical, and inquisitive.
23. The Author Reflects
Meaning: The author takes a moment to thoughtfully consider a topic.
Definition: “Reflects” suggests deep thinking, personal insights, or contemplation on an idea.
Explanation: This phrase is perfect for moments where the author is sharing personal insights or deeper understanding.
Scenario Example:
“In her book, the author reflects on the lessons she learned from overcoming adversity.”
Best Use: Great for memoirs, personal essays, and reflective pieces.
Tone: Introspective, thoughtful, and personal.
24. The Author Responds
Meaning: The author addresses an argument, question, or opposing view.
Definition: “Responds” is used when the author is reacting to an idea, either supporting, refuting, or expanding on it.
Explanation: This phrase is common in discussions, debates, or rebuttals.
Scenario Example:
“In a follow-up article, the author responds to critics by providing further evidence for his claims.”
Best Use: Ideal for discussions, debates, or counterarguments.
Tone: Engaged, reactive, and analytical.
25. The Author Points Out
Meaning: The author draws attention to a specific fact or detail.
Definition: “Points out” suggests the author is highlighting something important that may not have been immediately obvious.
Explanation: This phrase is useful for emphasising key ideas.
Scenario Example:
“The author points out that social media can both connect and isolate people, depending on how it is used.”
Best Use: Good for emphasising critical details or overlooked aspects.
Tone: Neutral, clear, and insightful.
26. The Author Expresses
Meaning: The author shares an emotion, feeling, or opinion.
Definition: “Expresses” suggests that the author is communicating a sentiment rather than stating a fact.
Explanation: This phrase works well when discussing emotions or personal viewpoints.
Scenario Example:
“Throughout the poem, the author expresses deep sorrow over the loss of a loved one.”
Best Use: Best for emotional or artistic writing.
Tone: Personal, emotional, and expressive.
27. The Author Elaborates
Meaning: The author provides additional details or expands on an idea.
Definition: “Elaborates” means the author is giving more depth to a topic.
Explanation: This phrase is useful when the author is building on a previous point.
Scenario Example:
“The author elaborates on the challenges faced by women in STEM fields.”
Best Use: Perfect for detailed explanations.
Tone: Informative, thorough, and expanding.
28. The Author Details
Meaning: The author provides specific and in-depth information.
Definition: “Details” suggests a precise breakdown of a concept.
Explanation: This phrase is helpful when the author provides data or a step-by-step explanation.
Scenario Example:
“The author details the historical events that led to the economic crisis.”
Best Use: Ideal for in-depth analysis.
Tone: Detailed, analytical, and comprehensive.
29. The Author Advocates
Meaning: The author strongly supports a particular cause or idea.
Definition: “Advocates” implies active support for a belief or change.
Explanation: This phrase is used when the author is championing a cause.
Scenario Example:
“In her speech, the author advocates for universal healthcare.”
Best Use: Great for persuasive and activist writing.
Tone: Passionate, persuasive, and supportive.
30. The Author Justifies
Meaning: The author provides reasons to defend a claim or argument.
Definition: “Justifies” means the author is explaining why their point is valid.
Explanation: This phrase is used in argumentative writing.
Scenario Example:
“The author justifies the need for stricter environmental regulations by citing recent pollution data.”
Best Use: Best for defending arguments.
Tone: Logical, reasoned, and firm.
Conclusion
Words have power. The way we attribute an author’s words can influence how our writing is received—whether it feels warm, engaging, or distant. While “The author states” is a neutral and professional way to introduce an idea, using alternative phrases allows you to fine-tune your tone, enhance clarity, and connect more deeply with your audience.
By choosing words that align with your message, you can add personality, emphasis, or nuance to your writing. Whether you’re writing an academic paper, a professional report, or a casual blog post, these 30 thoughtful alternatives will help you express ideas with greater precision and impact.Next time you’re summarising or referencing an author’s thoughts, consider which phrase best fits the tone and intent of your message. Small changes in wording can make a big difference in how your communication is received.
Emma Brooke is a passionate language enthusiast and expert at Grammar Apex, dedicated to helping writers, students, and professionals refine their grammar and writing skills. With a keen eye for detail and a love for linguistic precision, Emma provides insightful tips, clear explanations, and practical guidance to make complex grammar rules easy to understand.