1000+ expressions that will make scientific writing easy
Academic and scientific writing is a distinct form of communication with its own set of rules, conventions, and objectives. Its primary goal is not just to present information, but to construct a persuasive argument based on evidence, logic, and rigorous methodology. It is the official medium through which new knowledge is introduced, debated, and ultimately accepted into the body of human understanding. From a university dissertation to a groundbreaking article in a 2025 issue of a scientific journal, the language used must be precise, objective, and unambiguous. This style of writing is characterized by its formal tone, its structured nature—typically following the IMRaD (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion) format—and its reliance on citation to position new work within the existing scholarly conversation. Mastering these phrases is essential for anyone who wants to participate in that conversation, whether they are a student writing their first research paper or a seasoned professor publishing their latest findings. It is the key to communicating complex ideas with clarity and credibility to a critical audience of peers.
Table of contents
List of categories
Acknowledgement and gratitude
Phrases for formally thanking co-authors, supervisors, or funding bodies.
Example phrases(7)
Scientific and scholarly work is an intensely collaborative enterprise, and the acknowledgements section of a paper is the formal space to recognize the contributions of those who made the research possible. This category covers the conventional, formal phrases used for this purpose. The section typically begins with a broad statement, such as "The authors would like to thank…" or "We gratefully acknowledge the assistance of…" It is then followed by thanks to specific individuals for their particular contributions, for example, "Dr. Smith for her insightful comments on an earlier draft" or "the lab technicians for their support." Crucially, this is also the place where you must formally credit your funding sources. A standard phrase like "This research was funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation (Grant #12345)" is not just a polite thank-you; it is a requirement for transparency in research funding Common examples include "co-authored with" and "this work was supported by". These are not casual expressions of thanks, but a formal and permanent part of the academic record, highlighting the collaborative nature of knowledge creation and giving credit where it is professionally due.
Attribution and citation
Specifically linking information, ideas, or quotes to an external source, author, or publication.
Example phrases(41)
Isaac Newton famously wrote in 1675, ""if I have seen further [than others], it is by standing on the shoulders of giants." Researchers build on previous knowledge to the point that we can say that the entire enterprise of scholarship is built on the principle of giving credit to the work and ideas of others. The short, functional phrases in this category are the mechanical nuts and bolts of such a principle. They are the essential tools for attribution and are non-negotiable for avoiding plagiarism. The most common formulation is "According to Davis (2023),…" which clearly signals that the following idea originates from that specific source. Other variations, such as "As noted by Chen et al.,…" or "Miller’s research has shown that…," achieve the same goal. These phrases are the connective tissue that bonds together different strands of research into a coherent narrative. You might use a fragment like "as demonstrated in their study of…" to be more specific about the context of the cited work. These are not just stylistic choices; they are the formal mechanism for acknowledging your intellectual debts and for providing your reader with a clear trail to your sources Common examples include "as noted" and "accessed on". Mastering these simple phrases is one of the first and most important steps in becoming a responsible member of the academic community.
Causal and explanatory language
Phrases that attribute a finding to a cause, explain a relationship, or describe a mechanism.
Example phrases(90)
This is the language of "why." After you have presented your objective results, the Discussion section is your opportunity to interpret them. This is where you move beyond simply reporting what you found and begin to explain what it means. The phrases in this category are central to that interpretive process. You will use fragments that propose an explanation or a cause, such as "This finding can be attributed to…" or "This may be a result of the…" These expressions are used to connect your specific data points to a broader theoretical framework or a potential underlying mechanism. However, this is also where scientific caution is most needed. Claiming direct causality is a very strong statement, so researchers often use more tentative language. A phrase like "This suggests a relationship between…" is more common and scientifically honest than "This proves…" Using expressions like "One possible explanation for this result is…" allows you to propose an interpretation while acknowledging that other interpretations may exist. This is the part of your paper where you construct your argument, explain the significance of your findings, and contribute to the ongoing conversation in your field Common examples include "at the basis of" and "exert an effect". It's the transition from data collector to thoughtful analyst.
Conceptual definition and characterization
Phrases for formally defining terms, describing characteristics, or setting up theoretical frames.
Example phrases(167)
In academic discourse, common words can have highly specific meanings. You cannot assume that your reader understands a key concept in the same way you do. That is why formal definitions are a cornerstone of rigorous writing. The phrases in this category are the tools for establishing this clarity. The classic formulation is "For the purposes of this study, [the term] is defined as…" This creates a precise, operational definition that you will adhere to throughout your paper, preventing any ambiguity. You can also use these phrases to outline the key features of a concept, using fragments like "[The concept] is characterized by…" or "can be described as having three main components:…" This language is most often found in the introduction or the literature review, where you are laying the theoretical groundwork for your study. It is an act of intellectual precision. By clearly defining your terms, you ensure that you and your reader are operating from the same conceptual playbook, which is an absolute prerequisite for a coherent and persuasive argument Common examples include "a confluence of factors" and "akin to". Without it, your entire paper could be built on a foundation of misunderstanding.
Data collection and variables
Phrases specific to the gathering, measuring, or specification of samples, participants, data, or variables.
Example phrases(35)
Within the broader methodology, this is where you get down to the specifics of what you gathered and how you measured it. These phrases provide the crucial details about the foundation of your study: your data. Factual statements like "Data were collected through a series of structured interviews" or "A survey instrument was developed for this purpose" specify the tools used. Describing your subjects is equally critical. Fragments such as "The sample consisted of 40 undergraduate students" or "Participants were recruited from a local community center" define the population you are studying, which is essential for understanding the generalizability of your findings. Furthermore, you must clearly define what you were measuring. Using phrases like "The primary dependent variable was…" or "We measured reaction time in milliseconds…" eliminates any ambiguity about the parameters of your investigation. This language is necessarily technical and precise. It allows other experts in your field to critically evaluate your work, to check if your tools were appropriate, if your sample was representative, and if your variables were well-defined Common examples include "in one of the participants" and "at an individual level". This transparency is a non-negotiable part of scholarly communication, as it is the bedrock upon which your results and conclusions are built.
Discussing implications and relevance
Phrases that explore the broader significance, real-world consequences, or avenues for future research.
Example phrases(73)
This is the language of the "so what?" question. A brilliant piece of research can fall flat if it fails to explain why it matters. This category covers the phrases used in the Discussion and Conclusion sections to connect your specific findings to a bigger picture. These are the expressions that articulate the value and significance of your work. Fragments like "The practical implications of these findings are…" or "This research has important applications for…" are used to bridge the gap between the laboratory and the real world. This is where you explain how your work might influence policy, practice, or technology. Furthermore, good research always opens up new questions. Phrases like "Further research is needed to understand…" or "Future studies should explore the relationship between…" are not just afterthoughts; they are a vital part of the scientific process. They demonstrate your deep engagement with the topic and provide a roadmap for other researchers who want to build on your work Common examples include "cultural implication" and "a promising avenue". This is how you show that your study is not an end point, but a valuable contribution to a living, ongoing scientific conversation.
Emphasis and noteworthiness
Phrases for highlighting the critical, important, striking, or core aspects of a topic or finding.
Example phrases(66)
In a dense, information-rich academic paper, you cannot assume the reader will automatically grasp which points are the most important. As the author, it is your job to guide their attention. The phrases in this category act as a verbal highlighter, signaling to the reader, "Pay close attention to this part." You can use a fragment like "It is important to note that…" or "Crucially, the study found that…" to foreground a key piece of information or a pivotal result. When you want to emphasize a particularly surprising or interesting finding, you might use "Notably,…" or "Of particular interest is the fact that…" These phrases help you to control the narrative of your paper, ensuring that the reader follows your intended line of argument and does not get lost in the details. However, like a real highlighter, they lose their power if overused Common examples include "a profound understanding" and "a fundamental basis". Employed sparingly and strategically, these emphatic phrases can make your writing much more persuasive and your key contributions much more memorable, which is a significant advantage in a competitive academic landscape.
Internal structural signposting
Phrases that explicitly refer to the organization or layout of the current document (e.g., the paper is structured as follows).
Example phrases(28)
For a reader navigating a long and complex academic paper for the first time, it is incredibly helpful to have a map. That is precisely what structural signposting provides. This category includes the phrases you use to talk about the structure of your own document, guiding the reader along the way. At the very beginning, you might provide an overview with a sentence like "This paper is organized into four main sections." This sets a clear expectation from the start. As you move between topics, you can use forward-looking phrases like "In the following section, we will discuss…" to signal a transition. You can also connect ideas by referring back to previous parts of your paper with expressions such as "As discussed in Section 2…" or "As mentioned previously…" This practice makes the logical structure of your argument explicit, helping the reader to see how all the pieces fit together. It is a fundamental part of creating a reader-friendly text Common examples include "for the sake of completeness" and "discussed below". In an age where readers often skim papers for specific information, clear structural signposting makes your work more accessible and easier to digest.
Introducing aims and scope
Phrases used to state the purpose of the study/paper, define its boundaries, or set the overall context.
Example phrases(84)
The introduction of any academic paper serves as a contract with the reader, and these phrases are where you write the main clauses of that contract. A sentence beginning with "The aim of this study is to…" or "This paper seeks to examine…" is far more than a simple opening line; it is a declaration of intent that sets the entire tone for the work. It provides a roadmap, telling the reader precisely where you are going and what you hope to achieve. This initial clarity is a hallmark of rigorous thinking. In a world saturated with information, where researchers skim hundreds of abstracts, a sharp, well-defined aim helps your work get noticed. Equally important is the language of limitation. A phrase such as "The scope of this research is limited to…" is not an admission of weakness, but a sign of strategic focus. It defines the intellectual territory of your paper, preventing readers from judging it for what it never intended to be. This is a crucial move in managing expectations and framing your contribution accurately Common examples include "amid the backdrop" and "assess whether or not". Whether you are writing a grant proposal for a major 2025 research initiative or the first paragraph of your dissertation, these foundational phrases establish your paper’s purpose and boundaries, demonstrating from the outset that your project is well-conceived and thoughtfully planned.
Knowledge claims (strong assertion)
Assertions of proven facts, clear conclusions, or statements of widely accepted knowledge.
Example phrases(47)
While much of academic writing is cautious and nuanced, there are moments that call for a strong, direct assertion. When your evidence is overwhelming and your results are unambiguous, you can and should state your conclusions with conviction. These phrases signal to the reader a high degree of certainty. Think of powerful statements like "The data clearly demonstrate that…" or "Our findings confirm the hypothesis that…" These are not to be used lightly; they must be backed by robust data and sound analysis. A strong claim without strong evidence is a fast way to lose credibility. Another important use for this language is to state foundational, widely accepted knowledge in your field. Phrases like "It is well established that…" or "There is a broad consensus in the literature that…" show that you are building your argument on the solid ground of existing scholarship. In a world where scientific communication is often misinterpreted, the responsible use of strong assertions is a key skill Common examples include "backed up with evidence" and "as is evident". It helps to clearly distinguish between what is definitively known, and what is still speculative, bringing clarity to the scientific record.
Limitations and caveats
Phrases that advise caution in interpretation or note constraints, lack of data, or methodological restrictions.
Example phrases(25)
No single study can be perfect or answer every question. Acknowledging the weaknesses and boundaries of your own research is not a sign of failure; it is a fundamental part of academic integrity and a hallmark of a confident researcher. The "Limitations" section of a paper is the dedicated space for this critical self-reflection. The phrases here are the standard tools for this task. You will use direct statements like "It is important to acknowledge several limitations of this study." You can then specify the issue, for example: "The findings may not be generalizable due to the small sample size." You can also directly advise your reader on how to interpret your findings with a phrase like "Therefore, these results should be interpreted with caution." By being upfront about your study's constraints—whether they relate to your methodology, your sample, or the scope of your analysis—you are providing a more honest and complete picture of your work Common examples include "a lack of validity" and "albeit minor". This transparency strengthens your paper by showing that you have a nuanced and critical understanding of your own research, and it helps to guide future studies that can address these limitations.
Logical flow and transition
Phrases that connect ideas, paragraphs, and sections, indicating contrast, consequence, or addition (e.g., conversely, thus).
Example phrases(67)
A strong academic paper is not just a collection of facts; it is a carefully constructed argument where each point flows logically from the last. The small words and phrases in this category are the essential connectors that hold this argument together. These are transition or linking words, and their job is to show the relationship between different ideas. A word like "However" or "Conversely" signals a shift or a contrast. "Therefore," "Thus," or "Consequently" indicates that you are drawing a conclusion or stating a result. "Furthermore," "Moreover," or "In addition" tells the reader you are about to add a reinforcing point. These are not mere stylistic flourishes; they are the signposts that guide your reader through your intellectual journey. Without them, a paper can feel disjointed and difficult to follow, like a series of disconnected statements. Correctly using these transitions makes your writing more coherent, more persuasive, and ultimately more professional Common examples include "by way of example" and "as in the case of the". They are the invisible architecture that gives your writing its logical strength and flow.
Methodology and design
Language describing the research procedures, experiments, techniques, tests, and overall study approach.
Example phrases(57)
The methodology section is the structural core of any research paper; it is where you provide a clear, step-by-step account of how you conducted your investigation. The phrases in this category are the tools for building that account with precision and transparency. Expressions like "The experiment was conducted using…" or "A qualitative approach was adopted…" are the standard, objective language used to describe your research design. The ultimate goal of this section is to ensure reproducibility—a cornerstone of the scientific method. A well-written methods section should, in theory, allow another researcher to replicate your study exactly. This is not the place for narrative flair or ambiguity; it is for a factual, almost clinical, description of the process. Short, declarative statements such as "The test was administered under controlled conditions…" or "We used the following criteria for selection…" break down a complex process into a logical sequence of actions. In the current scientific climate, with ongoing discussions about the "reproducibility crisis," the clarity and detail of the methodology section have never been more important Common examples include "comparing a with b" and "conduct a test". It is the primary source of your paper’s credibility, demonstrating that your findings are the result of a systematic and reliable process, not chance or error.
Quantitative comparison and difference
Phrases for comparing numerical data, indicating relative size, proportion, or a lack of difference.
Example phrases(42)
Raw data is just a collection of figures; it is the comparison between them that creates meaning. This category covers the essential vocabulary for describing the relationships between your quantitative results. These phrases are the tools you use to translate statistical outputs into understandable scientific statements. You"ll use direct comparative fragments like "was significantly higher than" or "was approximately twice as large as" to highlight a clear difference. When the statistics show no effect, a formal phrase like "there was no significant difference between the groups" is the standard way to report it. This language allows you to summarize complex data concisely. For instance, stating that you found "a strong positive correlation between X and Y" is a powerful summary of a relationship that might be based on thousands of data points. You can also describe proportions with phrases like "accounted for over 50% of the total" or "was a minority of the sample.' For anyone working with statistics, from social sciences to particle physics, mastering these comparative phrases is essential Common examples include "in marked contrast" and "a parallel increase". They are the crucial link between the numerical output of your analysis and a meaningful, communicable scientific finding.
Referencing figures and tables
Phrases that direct the reader to internal visual aids within the text (e.g., as shown in table 1).
Example phrases(8)
In many scientific and academic fields, complex data is best presented not in prose, but in tables, graphs, and figures. However, these visuals cannot stand alone; the main text must clearly and explicitly direct the reader to them. The phrases in this category are the simple, functional tools for creating that link. The most common format is a short, direct fragment like "as shown in Figure 1" or "(see Table 2)." These references are often placed in parentheses at the end of a sentence that summarizes the key finding shown in the visual. For instance, you might write, "The experimental group showed a significant improvement over the control group (Figure 3)." You can also introduce the visual more directly with a phrase like "Table 1 provides a summary of the demographic data." The key is to seamlessly integrate your text and your visuals, so they work together to tell a single, coherent story Common examples include "according to table" and "the table shows that". These functional phrases are an essential part of the mechanics of any data-driven paper, ensuring the reader knows exactly where to look for the supporting evidence for your claims.
Reflective/personal academic voice
Language used by the author to describe their own academic journey, degrees, or personal pursuit of knowledge.
Example phrases(115)
While the vast majority of scientific writing is strictly impersonal and objective, there are specific contexts where a personal voice is not only appropriate but necessary. This category covers the phrases used in those situations, such as personal statements for graduate school applications, the preface to a book or dissertation, or in certain humanities disciplines that value reflective inquiry. You might use a fragment like "During my doctoral research, I became interested in…" to provide the origin story for a project. When applying for a fellowship or a new position, a clear statement such as "My academic background is in engineering, with a specialization in…" is used to establish your credentials. Phrases like "I received my M.A. degree from…" are factual statements of your qualifications. While you would almost never see "I think" in the Results section of a chemistry paper, you might use "I argue that…" in a philosophy essay Common examples include "My research interests lie primarily" and "Vocabulary repertoire". Knowing when and how to use this personal academic voice is a sign of understanding the different conventions across the wide world of scholarly communication.
Reporting observations/results
Phrases used to state clearly and objectively what was found or observed in the study.
Example phrases(69)
The Results section is the heart of your paper, where you present your findings to the world. The defining characteristic of this section is its objectivity. This is not the place for your opinions, interpretations, or speculations; it is purely for a factual report of what you observed. The phrases in this category are designed for exactly this kind of neutral presentation. Standard sentence starters like "The results indicate that…" or "We found a significant correlation between…" are the conventional ways to introduce your data. The language is direct and unadorned. You might use observational statements such as "A marked decrease was observed in the experimental group" or "No statistical difference was found between the two conditions." The job of these phrases is to present the "what" of your study in a clear and unbiased manner Common examples include "based on the observation" and "It can be seen that". They often act as a bridge, guiding the reader from the text to a specific table or figure where the raw numbers can be examined, for example: "The demographic data are summarized in Table 1." This section provides the factual foundation upon which you will build your argument in the discussion, so its clarity and neutrality are paramount.
Reviewing prior literature
Phrases used to introduce, summarize, or discuss existing scholarly work, research, and literature.
Example phrases(95)
No research is conducted in a vacuum. The literature review is the section of your paper where you demonstrate your awareness of the existing body of knowledge and position your own work within it. This category covers the essential phrases for discussing the work of others. You will use fragments like "Johnson (2022) argued that…" or "Several studies have investigated…" to introduce and summarize previous research. This is not just a descriptive list; you are building an argument. You use these phrases to synthesize information, identify common themes, and point out areas of disagreement in the field, using expressions like "There is some debate as to whether…" Critically, the literature review is where you identify a gap in the current understanding that your own research is designed to fill. A sentence beginning with "However, little attention has been paid to…" or "While previous studies have focused on X, they have not addressed Y" is a classic way to justify your project Common examples include "according to a report published by" and "a large body of research". This is the foundation of scholarship: showing that you have read and understood the work of others before you presume to add your own contribution.
Synthesis and conclusion
Phrases used to summarize overall arguments, draw final logical conclusions, or state the ultimate outcome.
Example phrases(15)
The conclusion of your paper is your last chance to leave a lasting impression on your reader. This section needs to be clear, concise, and impactful. The phrases in this category are the signposts that tell your reader you are bringing your argument to a close. The final paragraph or section often begins with a classic transitional phrase like "In conclusion," "To summarize," or "In summary," These signal that you are about to synthesize your main points. You will then restate your core message in a new and powerful way, using a fragment like "The main finding of this study is that…" or "Taken together, these results demonstrate that…" The goal is not simply to repeat what you have already said, but to synthesize the different parts of your argument into a single, coherent take-home message. You might also briefly touch upon the broader implications of your work one last time Common examples include "Based on the research" and "I therefore conclude that". A strong conclusion provides a sense of closure, leaving the reader with a clear and confident understanding of what your research has contributed to the field.
Tentative claims and hedging
Language used to express caution, probability, uncertainty, or suggest possibilities (e.g., may be due to).
Example phrases(60)
A hallmark of a mature researcher is the understanding that no single study provides the final answer. This is where "hedging" comes in. It is the practice of using cautious and tentative language to qualify your claims, and it is one of the most important skills in academic writing. These phrases acknowledge the inherent uncertainty in research. You will find fragments like "This may suggest that…" or "It seems likely that…" throughout the Discussion sections of high-quality papers. Instead of making a definitive statement, you are proposing a plausible interpretation. Common hedging words like "could," "might," "appears to," and "suggests" are the tools of this trade. A phrase like "tends to be associated with" is far more nuanced and defensible than the simple word "causes." In a media landscape that often demands simple, definitive headlines, hedging is an act of scientific responsibility. It ensures that your claims are accurately calibrated to the strength of your evidence Common examples include "findings suggest that" and "can be interpreted as". Far from being a sign of weakness, mastering the art of hedging is a sign of a careful, credible, and sophisticated scientific thinker.
Last updated: November 2025
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