Useful options include stated, argued, noted, and observed. The best choice depends on context: academic reporting verbs that distinguish claims, observations, explanations, and conclusions.
Choose the Reporting Verb by What the Source Does
- Stated
- Argued
- Noted
- Observed
- Explained
- Suggested
- Asserted
- Maintained
- Reported
- Acknowledged
- Emphasized
- Contended
- Claimed
- Concluded
Stated
“Stated” is neutral and simply reports the words or position given by a source.
Example: The author stated that the policy had unintended effects.
Argued
“Argued” is best when a source presents reasons in support of a claim.
Example: The author argued that the policy had unintended effects.
Noted
“Noted” is useful for drawing attention to a point without implying strong advocacy.
Example: The author noted that the policy had unintended effects.
Observed
“Observed” fits a source describing or noticing a pattern, result, or fact.
Example: The author observed that the policy had unintended effects.
Explained
“Explained” is best when the source provides reasons, mechanisms, or clarification.
Example: The author explained that the policy had unintended effects.
Suggested
“Suggested” signals a tentative interpretation, implication, or recommendation.
Example: The author suggested that the policy had unintended effects.
Asserted
“Asserted” is stronger and implies confident, explicit statement of a claim.
Example: The author asserted that the policy had unintended effects.
Maintained
“Maintained” fits a position the source continues to defend or hold.
Example: The author maintained that the policy had unintended effects.
Reported
“Reported” is appropriate for results, events, or information formally communicated.
Example: The author reported that the policy had unintended effects.
Acknowledged
“Acknowledged” works when the source accepts, recognizes, or concedes a point.
Example: The author acknowledged that the policy had unintended effects.
Emphasized
“Emphasized” is best when the source gives particular weight to one idea.
Example: The author emphasized that the policy had unintended effects.
Contended
“Contended” is formal and similar to “argued,” especially for a disputed claim.
Example: The author contended that the policy had unintended effects.
Claimed
“Claimed” is neutral to skeptical and useful when attribution matters.
Example: The author claimed that the policy had unintended effects.
Concluded
“Concluded” is best when the source reaches a final judgment after analysis.
Example: The author concluded that the policy had unintended effects.