B2 Expression Formal 10 min read

This demonstrates that

Presentation and public speaking expression

In 15 Seconds

  • A logical bridge connecting specific evidence to a broader conclusion or interpretation.
  • Best used in presentations, academic writing, and professional business meetings.
  • Follows the structure: [Fact/Evidence] + This demonstrates that + [Conclusion/Meaning].
  • Signals authority and analytical thinking by interpreting data for the audience.

Meaning

This phrase acts as a powerful logical bridge that connects a specific fact or piece of evidence to a broader conclusion. It is your way of telling someone, "I just showed you the data, and here is why it actually matters for our goal."

Key Examples

3 of 10
1

Reviewing quarterly sales data in a Zoom meeting

Our repeat customer rate increased by 15% this quarter. `This demonstrates that` our new loyalty program is actually working.

Our repeat customer rate increased by 15% this quarter. This demonstrates that our new loyalty program is actually working.

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2

A teacher giving feedback on a student's essay

You used three different primary sources in this section. `This demonstrates that` you've done extensive research on the topic.

You used three different primary sources in this section. This demonstrates that you've done extensive research on the topic.

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3

Texting a friend about a shared gym progress photo

You can finally see some muscle definition in your shoulders! `This demonstrates that` those early morning workouts are paying off.

You can finally see some muscle definition in your shoulders! This demonstrates that those early morning workouts are paying off.

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🌍

Cultural Background

In American business culture, 'This demonstrates that' is often followed by a 'bottom line' or a call to action. It is used to be direct and persuasive. British academic writing relies heavily on this phrase to maintain an objective, 'stiff upper lip' tone, avoiding personal pronouns like 'I think.' While Japanese culture values indirectness, in formal business presentations (Hyougen), the equivalent of 'This demonstrates that' is used to show respect for facts and data. German communication is often very precise. Using 'This demonstrates that' (Dies belegt, dass) is expected when presenting technical or scientific information to show rigor.

🎯

The 'This' Test

If you can't replace 'This' with a specific noun (like 'The data' or 'Her smile'), your sentence might be too vague. Be specific!

⚠️

Don't Over-Prove

Only use 'demonstrates' if the evidence is strong. If it's just a guess, use 'suggests' to avoid sounding arrogant.

In 15 Seconds

  • A logical bridge connecting specific evidence to a broader conclusion or interpretation.
  • Best used in presentations, academic writing, and professional business meetings.
  • Follows the structure: [Fact/Evidence] + This demonstrates that + [Conclusion/Meaning].
  • Signals authority and analytical thinking by interpreting data for the audience.

What It Means

Have you ever stood in front of a group of people, shared a really interesting fact, and then realized nobody understood why you shared it? That is where This demonstrates that saves the day. It is a logical pointer. It takes the "thing" you just said—maybe a statistic, a photo, or a behavior—and links it directly to a deeper truth or a conclusion. Think of it as the "So what?" button of the English language. When you use this phrase, you are playing the role of a guide. You are essentially saying, "Look at this evidence I just provided; it is the physical proof that my main point is correct." It carries a vibe of authority and clarity. It is not just about sharing information; it is about interpreting it. If you show a picture of a burnt cake, saying This demonstrates that the oven temperature was way too high gives your observation a professional, analytical weight. It turns a simple observation into a meaningful argument. It is like being a detective in a movie who finally points to the fingerprint and explains how it proves the suspect's guilt. You are making the invisible connections visible for your audience.

How To Use It

Using This demonstrates that is like building a three-part sandwich. First, you start with your evidence—the "meat" of your point. This could be a sentence about a recent trend, a specific number, or even a personal experience. Next, you place the phrase This demonstrates that right in the middle as the bridge. Finally, you add the conclusion or the meaning as the top bun. For example: "User engagement dropped by 20% after the update. This demonstrates that our customers prefer the old layout." Notice how the phrase sits right between the fact and the interpretation? It is important to remember that This refers back to the entire sentence or idea you just mentioned. You don't need to repeat yourself; the word This does all the heavy lifting. Also, make sure the word that is followed by a full clause—meaning a subject and a verb. You wouldn't say This demonstrates that a problem; you must say This demonstrates that there is a problem. It is a smooth, logical flow that makes you sound like you have really thought your ideas through. If you are talking to a friend about a messy roommate, you might say, "He left his socks in the fridge again. This demonstrates that he is officially losing his mind." Even in a silly context, the structure remains the exact same. It is a very reliable tool for your linguistic belt.

Formality & Register

In terms of formality, This demonstrates that is like a well-tailored blazer. It is definitely more professional than just saying "This shows," but it is not so stiff that you can't wear it to a casual lunch with colleagues. It is a staple in academic writing, business presentations, and news reporting. If you are writing a university essay or a report for your boss, this phrase is your best friend because it sounds objective and logical. It moves the focus away from "I think" and places it on the evidence itself. However, using it in a very casual text message might feel a bit "extra." If you text your best friend, "You didn't reply for six hours; This demonstrates that you are busy," they might think you are being a bit dramatic or overly formal. In those cases, "This shows" or "I guess" works better. But if you want to sound persuasive, smart, and organized, this is the phrase to reach for. It has a high-quality, "educated" feel to it without being pretentious. It suggests that you are not just guessing—you are analyzing. It is the perfect choice for a job interview when you want to explain how your past experiences prove you are the right fit for the role.

Real-Life Examples

Imagine you are scrolling through LinkedIn and see a post from a tech CEO. They might share a chart showing their app's growth and write, "We hit 1 million users this month. This demonstrates that the market is ready for more privacy-focused tools." Here, the phrase turns a milestone into a strategic insight. Or think about a fitness app on your phone. After a week of hitting your step goals, it might send a notification saying, "You walked 50 miles this week! This demonstrates that you are becoming more consistent with your health." It feels encouraging and logical, right? Even in the world of online shopping, you might see a review that says, "The fabric ripped after one wash. This demonstrates that the quality is quite poor for the price." In this scenario, the buyer is using the phrase to justify their negative rating. Even Netflix subtitles often use this phrase in documentaries when a narrator explains a scientific discovery or a historical event. It is everywhere! Whether you are explaining why a movie was a flop or why a new scientific study is important, this phrase helps you bridge the gap between "here is what happened" and "here is what it means."

When To Use It

Reach for this phrase whenever you want to sound more convincing. It is particularly useful in situations where you need to persuade an audience. If you are in a meeting and trying to get your team to change a strategy, using This demonstrates that makes your argument feel backed by data rather than just your personal opinion. It is also great for educational settings. If you are a teacher or a student explaining a concept, it helps clarify the link between a theory and an example. Another perfect time is during performance reviews. When you list your achievements and then use this phrase to explain how they helped the company, you are basically doing the manager's job for them. It is also helpful in debate or discussion groups where you need to point out the flaws in an opponent's logic or reinforce your own. Basically, anytime there is a "cause and effect" relationship you want to highlight, this phrase is a winner. It provides a clear "aha!" moment for whoever is listening to you.

When NOT To Use It

Avoid this phrase when the connection is extremely obvious or purely emotional. If you say, "The sun is out. This demonstrates that it is daytime," you will sound like a robot trying to act human. Everyone knows the sun means it is daytime; you don't need a high-level logical bridge for that! Also, try not to use it when you are talking about purely subjective feelings where no "demonstration" is possible. For instance, "I like pizza. This demonstrates that pizza is good," sounds a bit silly because "goodness" in food is an opinion, not something you can logically prove with evidence in a casual chat. Also, be careful not to over-use it in a single paragraph. If every sentence starts with This demonstrates that, your writing will feel repetitive and clunky. It is a powerful phrase, so use it sparingly for maximum impact. Think of it like a spice—a little bit makes the dish better, but too much ruins the meal. Finally, don't use it if you aren't actually providing evidence. If you just make a claim without a preceding fact, the word This has nothing to point to, and your listener will be confused.

Common Mistakes

A very common trip-up is forgetting the "s" at the end of demonstrates. Since This is a singular subject, you need that third-person singular verb ending. People often say ✗ This demonstrate that, which is a quick way to sound less fluent. Another mistake is using "It" instead of "This." While ✗ It demonstrates that is grammatically okay, it often feels weaker because "This" is much better at pointing back to a specific, recently mentioned idea. Some learners also forget the word that entirely, saying ✗ This demonstrates the problem. While this is technically okay, it changes the structure. If you want to follow up with a full explanation, you need the that. Finally, don't confuse it with "This means that." While they are similar, demonstrates implies a more visual or evidence-based proof. Using demonstrates for a simple translation or a definition is a bit of a mismatch.

Common Variations

If you find yourself using This demonstrates that too much, you can swap it for some close cousins. "This illustrates that" is a great alternative, especially if you just showed a graph, a photo, or a specific story (it feels more visual). "This shows that" is the more casual, everyday version. It is the "jeans and t-shirt" to the "suit" of demonstrates. For a more scientific or tentative vibe, you could try "This suggests that." This is useful when you aren't 100% sure but the evidence points in a certain direction. If the evidence is extremely strong, you might even say "This proves that," though be careful with that one—it's a very bold claim! In academic circles, you might hear "This indicates that" or "This signifies that." Each one has a slightly different flavor, but they all serve the same purpose: connecting the dots. Choosing the right one depends on how certain you are and how formal the situation is.

Real Conversations

Speaker A: Look at these survey results. 80% of users found the new checkout process confusing.

Speaker B: Wow, This demonstrates that we really need to simplify the UI before the holiday season.

Speaker A: Exactly. We should probably run some more tests next week.

Speaker A: Did you see how many people showed up to the protest today? The streets were completely blocked.

Speaker B: Yeah, This demonstrates that the community is truly passionate about this issue.

Speaker A: I hope the city council was paying attention!

Speaker A: My cat actually waited by the door for me for three hours today.

Speaker B: Oh my god, This demonstrates that he loves you more than he loves treats!

Speaker A: Honestly, that's the biggest compliment I've ever received.

Quick FAQ

Is it okay to use this in a text message?

Yes, but only if you are talking about something slightly serious or if you are being a bit ironic. For example, if your friend sends a screenshot of a weird dating app message, you could reply, "This demonstrates that the bar is on the floor." It adds a funny, mock-serious tone.

Can I use it at the beginning of a paragraph?

Only if the previous paragraph ended with a very clear fact or piece of data. Usually, it works best in the middle of a paragraph to link two sentences together. It needs that "anchor" of evidence to refer back to.

What is the difference between This demonstrates that and This shows that?

Demonstrates is more formal and implies a more systematic or logical proof. Shows is more general and can be used for almost anything. Think of demonstrates as the professional upgrade for when you want to sound more authoritative.

Do I always need the word "that"?

If you are following it with a full sentence (a clause), then yes, you definitely need "that." If you just want to point to a noun, you would say "This demonstrates [noun]," but the "that" version is much more common in presentations and arguments.

Usage Notes

The primary 'gotcha' with this phrase is the subject-verb agreement. Always ensure you include the 's' on 'demonstrates' when the subject is 'this'. Use it to interpret data, not just to repeat it.

🎯

The 'This' Test

If you can't replace 'This' with a specific noun (like 'The data' or 'Her smile'), your sentence might be too vague. Be specific!

⚠️

Don't Over-Prove

Only use 'demonstrates' if the evidence is strong. If it's just a guess, use 'suggests' to avoid sounding arrogant.

💬

Formal vs. Casual

In a text message to a friend, use 'This shows.' In an email to your boss, use 'This demonstrates.' Match your register to your audience.

Examples

10
#1 Reviewing quarterly sales data in a Zoom meeting
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Our repeat customer rate increased by 15% this quarter. `This demonstrates that` our new loyalty program is actually working.

Our repeat customer rate increased by 15% this quarter. This demonstrates that our new loyalty program is actually working.

Links a specific metric (15% increase) to a strategic conclusion (program success).

#2 A teacher giving feedback on a student's essay
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

You used three different primary sources in this section. `This demonstrates that` you've done extensive research on the topic.

You used three different primary sources in this section. This demonstrates that you've done extensive research on the topic.

Uses specific actions (using sources) to prove a quality (extensive research).

#3 Texting a friend about a shared gym progress photo
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

You can finally see some muscle definition in your shoulders! `This demonstrates that` those early morning workouts are paying off.

You can finally see some muscle definition in your shoulders! This demonstrates that those early morning workouts are paying off.

Translates a visual observation into a motivational conclusion.

#4 A movie review caption on Instagram
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

The theater was half-empty on opening night. `This demonstrates that` even big-budget sequels need a compelling story to draw a crowd.

The theater was half-empty on opening night. This demonstrates that even big-budget sequels need a compelling story to draw a crowd.

Uses a physical observation (empty theater) to make a broader point about the industry.

#5 Discussing a pet's behavior
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

The dog hid under the bed as soon as I picked up the leash. `This demonstrates that` he's still a bit nervous about going for walks.

The dog hid under the bed as soon as I picked up the leash. This demonstrates that he's still a bit nervous about going for walks.

Interprets animal behavior through a logical lens.

Common grammar error in a report Common Mistake
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✗ The data show a drop, which `demonstrate that` we have a problem. → ✓ The data show a drop, and `this demonstrates that` we have a problem.

✗ The data show a drop, which demonstrate that we have a problem. → ✓ The data show a drop, and this demonstrates that we have a problem.

The first version lacks the subject 'this' and the correct singular verb ending.

#7 A humorous observation about office life
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

The coffee machine has been broken for three days and productivity is at an all-time low. `This demonstrates that` caffeine is the only thing keeping this company alive.

The coffee machine has been broken for three days and productivity is at an all-time low. This demonstrates that caffeine is the only thing keeping this company alive.

Uses a formal logical structure for a joke.

#8 LinkedIn post about remote work
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

Our team finished the project two days early while working from home. `This demonstrates that` trust is more effective than micromanagement.

Our team finished the project two days early while working from home. This demonstrates that trust is more effective than micromanagement.

A classic professional 'takeaway' using the phrase.

Misunderstanding the logic Common Mistake
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✗ `This demonstrates that` it is raining because I am wet. → ✓ The fact that I am wet `demonstrates that` it is raining.

✗ This demonstrates that it is raining because I am wet. → ✓ The fact that I am wet demonstrates that it is raining.

Ensure the evidence comes before the phrase, not after.

#10 An emotional conversation about a friendship
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You drove two hours just to bring me soup when I was sick. `This demonstrates that` you are truly one of my best friends.

You drove two hours just to bring me soup when I was sick. This demonstrates that you are truly one of my best friends.

Uses a logical bridge to express deep appreciation.

Test Yourself

Complete the sentence with the correct form of the phrase.

The increase in global temperatures __________ that climate change is accelerating.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: demonstrates

The subject 'increase' is singular, so the verb must be 'demonstrates.'

Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?

Choose the correct sentence:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a

Option 'a' follows the correct pattern: This + demonstrates + that + [full clause].

Match the evidence to the conclusion using 'This demonstrates that.'

Evidence: The store is empty on a Saturday. Conclusion: __________

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a

An empty store on a busy day is a logical sign of business trouble.

🎉 Score: /3

Visual Learning Aids

Practice Bank

3 exercises
Complete the sentence with the correct form of the phrase. Fill Blank B1

The increase in global temperatures __________ that climate change is accelerating.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: demonstrates

The subject 'increase' is singular, so the verb must be 'demonstrates.'

Which sentence uses the phrase correctly? Choose B2

Choose the correct sentence:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a

Option 'a' follows the correct pattern: This + demonstrates + that + [full clause].

Match the evidence to the conclusion using 'This demonstrates that.' situation_matching B2

Evidence: The store is empty on a Saturday. Conclusion: __________

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a

An empty store on a busy day is a logical sign of business trouble.

🎉 Score: /3

Frequently Asked Questions

5 questions

Yes, but only if the previous paragraph ended with a very clear piece of evidence that you are now interpreting.

It is always 'demonstrates that' when followed by a clause. You only use 'to' if you are demonstrating a physical action *to* someone (e.g., 'He demonstrated the dance to the class').

'Demonstrates' is for logical proof; 'illustrates' is for using an example to make a concept clearer.

No, it is perfect for job interviews. It makes you sound professional, logical, and confident in your skills.

Yes, if your subject is plural (e.g., 'These facts demonstrate that...').

Related Phrases

🔗

This shows that

similar

A less formal way to link evidence to a conclusion.

🔗

This proves that

builds on

A stronger version of the phrase.

🔗

This suggests that

contrast

A weaker, more cautious version.

🔗

This illustrates that

specialized form

Using an example to show a truth.

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