30+ Other Ways to Say Says in an Essay | Better Words to Make Every Argument More Powerful in 2026

Quick Answer:
Looking for other ways to say says in an essay? Strong alternatives include states, explains, argues, claims, and notes. The best choice depends on what the source is doing and how formal your writing needs to be.

When you write an essay, using says again and again can make your sentences sound repetitive. You may write, “The author says,” “The expert says,” or “The article says” many times without noticing it.

Learning alternatives to other ways to say says in an essay helps you describe ideas more clearly. Some verbs show that a writer is giving information, while others show argument, opinion, evidence, or explanation.

This guide gives you practical other ways to say says in an essay for academic, professional, and everyday writing. Knowing the right reporting verb can improve your fluency and help your ideas sound more precise. The same skill also helps you understand how word choice changes meaning when you want to express excitement in English, show agreement, or report another person’s words accurately.

“A stronger reporting verb does more than replace says. It tells the reader how an idea is being presented.”

Quick Categories

Formal alternatives to “says in an essay”

States
Argues
Asserts
Maintains

Pro Tip: Use formal verbs when the source is making a clear claim or presenting an academic argument. Do not choose a stronger verb than the evidence supports.

Casual alternatives

Mentions
Tells us
Points out
Talks about

Pro Tip: Casual choices work better in simple explanations than in formal academic essays.

Professional alternatives

Explains
Notes
Reports
Observes

Pro Tip: In professional writing, choose a verb that accurately describes the speaker’s purpose rather than using the same word in every sentence.

Informal expressions

Brings up
Goes on to say
Adds
Shares

Pro Tip: These informal expressions in English are useful in conversation and relaxed writing, but many are less suitable for academic work.

“The best synonym is not always the fanciest word. It is the word that matches the evidence.”

Common Mistakes When Using “Says in an Essay”

Here are five common errors people make when looking for other ways to say says in an essay.

1. Using a verb that is too strong

Do not use proves when the source only gives an opinion.

Example: The author proves that remote work is better.

A safer choice may be: The author argues that remote work is better.

2. Repeating the same reporting verb

Using says in every paragraph can make writing sound flat.

Example: The author says this, then says that, and later says something else.

3. Using informal language in a formal essay

Some phrases sound natural in speech but weak in academic writing.

Example: The researcher goes like the results were surprising.

Use states or explains instead.

4. Choosing a verb without checking its meaning

Claims can suggest that a statement needs proof.

Example: The study claims that the treatment works.

Use reports if the study is simply presenting findings.

5. Mixing grammar patterns

Different reporting verbs can take different structures.

Example: The author explains that the issue is complex.

This structure is correct, but not every reporting verb works the same way.

What Does “Says in an Essay” Mean?

In essay writing, says is a reporting verb. It introduces information, opinions, arguments, or statements from another person or source.

For example:

The author says that social media affects communication.

The verb says is the third person singular form of say. It usually agrees with a singular subject, such as the author, the researcher, or the article.

For plural subjects, use say.

The researchers say that more evidence is needed.

When to Use “Says in an Essay”

You can use says when:

Introducing an author’s opinion
Reporting a person’s words
Summarizing a source
Explaining what a text communicates
Writing simple academic sentences
Discussing an interview or quotation

Spoken vs. Written

In spoken English, says is very common and natural.

In formal academic writing, repeating it too often can sound basic or repetitive. This is why learning other ways to say says in an essay is useful.

Formal vs. Informal

Says itself is not incorrect or rude. However, it is usually less precise than verbs such as argues, explains, observes, or concludes.

“Precise verbs help readers understand whether a source is explaining, arguing, suggesting, or reporting.”

Is It Professional or Polite to Say “Says in an Essay”?

Polite? Yes

Professional? No, in most cases

The word says is polite and easy to understand. However, in formal essays, reports, and professional documents, a more specific reporting verb often sounds stronger.

Business style example:
The report states that customer satisfaction increased during the final quarter.

This sounds more professional than:

The report says that customer satisfaction increased during the final quarter.

Pros and Cons of Using “Says in an Essay”

Pros

Simple and natural
Friendly tone
Common usage
Easy to understand

Cons

Too informal for some work
Can become overused
Has limited emotional range
Is not always suitable for formal writing

Other Ways to Say “Says in an Essay” 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 express ideas accurately, including arguments, information, reactions, admiration, approval, and even situations where you want to express excitement in English.

1. Phrase: States

Meaning: Gives information clearly and directly.
Explanation: Use it for formal statements and factual points.
Example Sentence: The report states that sales increased by 15 percent.
Best Use: Formal writing
Worst Use: Casual chat
Tone: Formal, direct, clear
Context Variability: Professional writing, academic essays, formal reports

2. Phrase: Explains

Meaning: Makes an idea easier to understand.
Explanation: Use it when the source gives reasons or details.
Example Sentence: The author explains why regular exercise improves mental focus.
Best Use: Clear explanations
Worst Use: Short quotations
Tone: Helpful, neutral, informative
Context Variability: Casual, professional, spoken examples

3. Phrase: Argues

Meaning: Presents a reasoned opinion.
Explanation: Use it when a writer supports a position with reasons.
Example Sentence: The author argues that public transport should receive more funding.
Best Use: Academic arguments
Worst Use: Simple facts
Tone: Formal, analytical, confident
Context Variability: Professional, academic, spoken debate

4. Phrase: Claims

Meaning: States that something is true.
Explanation: It can suggest that the statement needs evidence or verification.
Example Sentence: The company claims that its product reduces energy use.
Best Use: Unverified statements
Worst Use: Proven facts
Tone: Neutral, cautious, formal
Context Variability: Professional, academic, spoken examples

5. Phrase: Notes

Meaning: Mentions an important point.
Explanation: Use it to introduce an observation or detail.
Example Sentence: The researcher notes that the sample size was limited.
Best Use: Important details
Worst Use: Strong arguments
Tone: Professional, calm, precise
Context Variability: Academic, professional, spoken examples

6. Phrase: Mentions

Meaning: Refers to something briefly.
Explanation: Use it when the source does not discuss the topic in detail.
Example Sentence: The article mentions several possible causes of the problem.
Best Use: Brief references
Worst Use: Main arguments
Tone: Neutral, simple, natural
Context Variability: Casual, professional, spoken examples

7. Phrase: Points Out

Meaning: Draws attention to something.
Explanation: It highlights a fact, problem, or important idea.
Example Sentence: The author points out that many students lack access to technology.
Best Use: Key observations
Worst Use: Formal contracts
Tone: Clear, helpful, direct
Context Variability: Casual, professional, spoken examples

8. Phrase: Suggests

Meaning: Gives an idea without stating it as certain.
Explanation: Use it when the source presents a possibility.
Example Sentence: The evidence suggests that sleep affects memory.
Best Use: Careful conclusions
Worst Use: Confirmed facts
Tone: Cautious, academic, neutral
Context Variability: Academic, professional, spoken examples

9. Phrase: Reports

Meaning: Gives information about an event or result.
Explanation: This verb is useful for research, news, and official findings.
Example Sentence: The study reports a significant improvement in test scores.
Best Use: Research findings
Worst Use: Personal opinions
Tone: Formal, factual, objective
Context Variability: Professional, academic, spoken examples

10. Phrase: Observes

Meaning: Notices and comments on something.
Explanation: Use it for thoughtful observations or analysis.
Example Sentence: The writer observes that the characters change over time.
Best Use: Analytical writing
Worst Use: Casual gossip
Tone: Formal, thoughtful, analytical
Context Variability: Academic, professional, spoken examples

“Good writing becomes clearer when every reporting verb has a purpose.”

11. Phrase: Asserts

Meaning: States something confidently.
Explanation: Use it when a speaker makes a strong declaration.
Example Sentence: The author asserts that education should remain accessible to everyone.
Best Use: Strong positions
Worst Use: Weak evidence
Tone: Strong, formal, confident
Context Variability: Academic, professional, spoken debate

12. Phrase: Maintains

Meaning: Continues to support an opinion.
Explanation: It often shows that a person keeps the same position.
Example Sentence: The professor maintains that the traditional method is more effective.
Best Use: Ongoing arguments
Worst Use: Simple details
Tone: Formal, firm, measured
Context Variability: Academic, professional, spoken examples

13. Phrase: Emphasizes

Meaning: Gives special importance to something.
Explanation: Use it when the source strongly highlights a point.
Example Sentence: The report emphasizes the need for better workplace safety.
Best Use: Important points
Worst Use: Minor details
Tone: Strong, clear, professional
Context Variability: Professional, academic, spoken examples

14. Phrase: Highlights

Meaning: Brings attention to something important.
Explanation: It works well when discussing a major feature, issue, or finding.
Example Sentence: The article highlights the risks of poor financial planning.
Best Use: Key findings
Worst Use: Direct quotes
Tone: Clear, professional, informative
Context Variability: Casual, professional, spoken examples

15. Phrase: Discusses

Meaning: Talks about a topic in detail.
Explanation: Use it when a source explores an idea rather than making one direct statement.
Example Sentence: The essay discusses the effects of climate change on farming.
Best Use: Broad topics
Worst Use: Direct statements
Tone: Neutral, academic, flexible
Context Variability: Casual, professional, spoken examples

16. Phrase: Describes

Meaning: Gives details about a person, thing, or event.
Explanation: Use it when the source presents characteristics or features.
Example Sentence: The author describes the city as crowded and energetic.
Best Use: Detailed information
Worst Use: Strong arguments
Tone: Neutral, descriptive, clear
Context Variability: Casual, professional, spoken examples

17. Phrase: Reveals

Meaning: Makes previously unknown information known.
Explanation: Use it when a source uncovers an important fact.
Example Sentence: The survey reveals that most employees prefer flexible hours.
Best Use: New findings
Worst Use: Obvious facts
Tone: Strong, informative, engaging
Context Variability: Professional, academic, spoken examples

18. Phrase: Indicates

Meaning: Shows that something is likely or true.
Explanation: This is useful when evidence points toward a conclusion.
Example Sentence: The data indicates that customer demand is growing.
Best Use: Evidence analysis
Worst Use: Casual stories
Tone: Formal, objective, careful
Context Variability: Academic, professional, spoken examples

19. Phrase: Demonstrates

Meaning: Shows something clearly with evidence.
Explanation: Use it when the information strongly supports a conclusion.
Example Sentence: The experiment demonstrates how temperature affects the reaction.
Best Use: Strong evidence
Worst Use: Personal opinions
Tone: Formal, confident, analytical
Context Variability: Academic, professional, spoken examples

20. Phrase: Concludes

Meaning: Gives a final judgment or finding.
Explanation: Use it near the end of a study, argument, or discussion.
Example Sentence: The researcher concludes that further testing is necessary.
Best Use: Final findings
Worst Use: Early discussion
Tone: Formal, logical, decisive
Context Variability: Academic, professional, spoken examples

21. Phrase: Believes

Meaning: Holds an opinion or view.
Explanation: Use it for personal opinions that may not be proven facts.
Example Sentence: The author believes that creativity can be developed through practice.
Best Use: Personal opinions
Worst Use: Scientific results
Tone: Neutral, personal, clear
Context Variability: Casual, professional, spoken examples

22. Phrase: Proposes

Meaning: Presents an idea or plan for consideration.
Explanation: Use it when someone offers a possible solution.
Example Sentence: The report proposes a new approach to employee training.
Best Use: Solutions, plans
Worst Use: Past events
Tone: Professional, constructive, formal
Context Variability: Academic, professional, spoken examples

23. Phrase: Recommends

Meaning: Advises a particular action.
Explanation: Use it when the source suggests what should be done.
Example Sentence: The guide recommends reviewing the policy every year.
Best Use: Advice, guidance
Worst Use: Neutral facts
Tone: Helpful, professional, clear
Context Variability: Professional, academic, spoken examples

24. Phrase: Acknowledges

Meaning: Accepts or recognizes an important fact.
Explanation: It is useful when a writer admits a limitation or opposing point.
Example Sentence: The author acknowledges that the plan may be expensive.
Best Use: Limitations, balance
Worst Use: Simple greetings
Tone: Formal, balanced, thoughtful
Context Variability: Academic, professional, spoken examples

25. Phrase: Expresses

Meaning: Communicates a thought, feeling, or opinion.
Explanation: Use it for ideas, concerns, approval, or emotions.
Example Sentence: The manager expresses concern about the delayed project.
Best Use: Opinions, feelings
Worst Use: Statistical data
Tone: Professional, clear, flexible
Context Variability: Casual, professional, spoken examples

26. Phrase: Adds

Meaning: Gives extra information.
Explanation: Use it when a person continues with another related point.
Example Sentence: The speaker adds that the team will receive more training.
Best Use: Extra information
Worst Use: Formal conclusions
Tone: Natural, simple, conversational
Context Variability: Casual, professional, spoken examples

27. Phrase: Remarks

Meaning: Makes a comment about something.
Explanation: It is useful for reporting a brief observation.
Example Sentence: The author remarks that public attitudes have changed.
Best Use: Brief comments
Worst Use: Research data
Tone: Formal, neutral, polished
Context Variability: Professional, academic, spoken examples

28. Phrase: Addresses

Meaning: Deals with or discusses an issue.
Explanation: Use it when a source focuses on a particular problem or topic.
Example Sentence: The article addresses the challenges faced by new employees.
Best Use: Specific issues
Worst Use: Direct quotations
Tone: Formal, professional, focused
Context Variability: Academic, professional, spoken examples

29. Phrase: Clarifies

Meaning: Makes something easier to understand.
Explanation: Use it when a source removes confusion.
Example Sentence: The policy clarifies how employees should report absences.
Best Use: Removing confusion
Worst Use: Strong arguments
Tone: Helpful, professional, precise
Context Variability: Casual, professional, spoken examples

30. Phrase: Confirms

Meaning: Shows that something is true or correct.
Explanation: Use it when reliable evidence supports a statement.
Example Sentence: The results confirm the original findings.
Best Use: Verified information
Worst Use: Uncertain opinions
Tone: Formal, confident, factual
Context Variability: Professional, academic, spoken examples

“Learning other ways to say says in an essay gives you more control over tone, meaning, and clarity.”

Mini Quiz: Self Check

1. Which verb is best when an author presents a reasoned position?

A. Mentions
B. Argues
C. Adds
D. Describes

Answer: B. Argues

2. Which phrase is best for a research finding?

A. Reports
B. Goes on to say
C. Brings up
D. Shares

Answer: A. Reports

3. A writer presents evidence that points toward a possible conclusion. Which verb fits best?

A. Confirms
B. Suggests
C. Demands
D. Announces

Answer: B. Suggests

4. Which sentence is most suitable for a formal essay?

A. The author goes like education is important.
B. The author brings up that education is important.
C. The author argues that education is important.
D. The author is like education is important.

Answer: C. The author argues that education is important.

Comparison Table: Top Alternatives

Phrase	Tone	Best Use
States	Formal, direct	Official information
Explains	Clear, helpful	Giving reasons
Argues	Formal, analytical	Supporting a position
Claims	Cautious, neutral	Statements needing proof
Notes	Professional, precise	Important details
Points out	Clear, direct	Key observations
Suggests	Careful, academic	Possible conclusions
Reports	Formal, factual	Research findings
Indicates	Objective, formal	Evidence analysis
Concludes	Logical, decisive	Final findings

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best other ways to say says in an essay?

The best choices include states, explains, argues, notes, reports, and suggests. Choose the verb based on the source’s purpose and level of certainty.

What is a formal alternative to “says” in academic writing?

States is one of the safest formal alternatives. Argues, indicates, observes, and demonstrates may be better when they match the exact meaning.

Can I use “says” in a formal essay?

Yes, but avoid repeating it too often. Using precise alternatives can make your writing sound more varied and analytical.

What reporting verb should I use for an author’s opinion?

Use argues, believes, maintains, or asserts, depending on how strong the author’s position is.

How do I choose the right alternative to “says”?

Think about what the source is doing. Is it giving information, making an argument, offering advice, presenting evidence, or expressing an opinion? Choose a verb that describes that action accurately.

Conclusion

Learning other ways to say says in an essay can make your writing more precise, varied, and professional. Words such as states, argues, explains, notes, and suggests tell readers more about how a source presents an idea.

Practice using these alternatives in short sentences every day. Pay attention to tone and context, because the best reporting verb is not simply a synonym. It is the word that communicates the exact meaning you want.

Ethan Parker

Ethan Parker is a professional content writer at Replynst.com. He creates clear, engaging and well-researched articles focused on providing useful information, answering readers’ questions.