In 15 Seconds
- Professional way to link evidence to a conclusion.
- Higher level of certainty than 'suggests' but lower than 'proves'.
- Essential for academic essays, reports, and formal presentations.
- Maintains an objective, third-person perspective in writing.
Meaning
This phrase is the academic equivalent of pointing at a smoking gun. It tells your reader that the data you've gathered isn't just random noise—it's pointing directly at a specific conclusion. It’s used to bridge the gap between 'here is some data' and 'here is what it actually means for the world.'
Key Examples
3 of 10Writing a university essay on sociology
This research indicates that social media usage directly correlates with sleep deprivation in teenagers.
This research indicates that social media usage directly correlates with sleep deprivation in teenagers.
Presenting a marketing report to a boss
Our latest research indicates that customers prefer video ads over static images.
Our latest research indicates that customers prefer video ads over static images.
A news report about health
Recent research indicates that a Mediterranean diet can significantly lower heart disease risks.
Recent research indicates that a Mediterranean diet can significantly lower heart disease risks.
Cultural Background
The phrase reflects the Western academic tradition's obsession with 'objectivity' and the 'scientific method.' Historically, scholars moved away from saying 'I believe' or 'I think' during the Enlightenment to appear more impartial. By making the 'research' the subject of the sentence, the writer disappears, making the conclusion seem like an undeniable truth of nature rather than a human opinion. It is the linguistic hallmark of a culture that prizes data above all else.
Avoid 'Proves'
In English academic culture, scientists rarely say 'prove' because they are always open to new data. Using 'indicates' makes you look more sophisticated and intellectually humble.
The 'Me' Trap
Never say 'This research indicates me that.' It's a common mistake for Spanish and French speakers. Just go straight to 'that'.
In 15 Seconds
- Professional way to link evidence to a conclusion.
- Higher level of certainty than 'suggests' but lower than 'proves'.
- Essential for academic essays, reports, and formal presentations.
- Maintains an objective, third-person perspective in writing.
What It Means
Think of this phrase as your professional 'proof button.' When you say This research indicates that, you are doing more than just sharing facts. You are acting as a guide. You are telling your audience, 'I’ve looked at the numbers, and they clearly point this way.' It carries a sense of authority and objectivity. It’s not just your opinion; it’s what the evidence is shouting. It has a 'cool and collected' vibe. You aren't yelling from the rooftops, but you are standing your ground with confidence.
How To Use It
You usually place this phrase right after you’ve mentioned a study, a survey, or a set of data. It acts as the glue between your evidence and your claim. For example, if you found that coffee drinkers live longer, you’d say: This research indicates that caffeine may have life-extending properties. Use it to introduce a 'finding.' It’s the perfect setup for a big reveal in a presentation or a concluding thought in an essay. Just make sure the data actually supports what you say next! Nobody likes a researcher who makes wild guesses. It’s like being a detective presenting evidence to a jury.
Formality & Register
This is a 'black-tie' phrase. It belongs in university halls, scientific journals, and serious business meetings. You won’t hear it much at a Saturday morning brunch unless your friends are very intense academics. It is strictly formal. On the scale of formality, it sits just below 'proves' (which is very risky) and slightly above 'suggests' (which is more cautious). It’s the standard 'work uniform' of the academic world. Using it shows you understand the rules of professional English. It says, 'I am a serious person doing serious work.'
Real-Life Examples
You’ll spot this phrase everywhere once you start looking. It’s a favorite for science journalists on sites like *National Geographic* or *BBC News*. In a university lecture, a professor might use it to summarize a complex theory. Even in a high-level job interview for a data analyst role, you might use it to describe your previous projects. It’s the bread and butter of white papers and annual reports. If you're watching a documentary on *Netflix* about space, the narrator will almost certainly drop this phrase at least twice. It’s the language of discovery.
When To Use It
Use it when you have solid evidence but want to remain scientifically humble. In the world of research, saying something is 'proven' is a big deal and often avoided. Indicates is the sweet spot. It's strong enough to be meaningful but cautious enough to be professional. Use it in your Master’s thesis, a formal proposal for work, or even a serious blog post about health or technology. It’s great for Zoom presentations when you want to sound like the smartest person in the room (even if you're wearing pajama bottoms off-camera).
When NOT To Use It
Don't use this when you’re talking about your personal feelings. Saying This research indicates that I really like pizza sounds like you’ve performed a clinical trial on your own appetite—which is weird. Avoid it in casual texts or DMs. If you tell a friend, The research indicates that you should buy me a drink, they might think you've spent too much time in the library. Also, don't use it if the evidence is very weak. If you only talked to two people, don't claim it 'indicates' a global trend. That’s just being a 'drama queen' with data.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 'indicates' with 'proves' or 'shows.'
- ✗ This research proves that everyone is happy → ✓ This research indicates that many people feel satisfied.
- ✗ The research indicates me that... → ✓ The research indicates that... (Don't use an indirect object!).
- ✗ Based on the research indicates... → ✓ The research indicates... (Pick one structure, don't double up!).
Another big one is using it for things that aren't research. If you just saw a tweet, it’s not 'research.' It’s a 'post.' Keep the high-level language for the high-level evidence.
Common Variations
Depending on how sure you are, you can swap this out.
This research suggests that(A bit more cautious/tentative).The findings demonstrate that(Very strong and visual).Evidence points to the fact that(A bit more descriptive).The data reveals that(Sounds a bit more exciting, like a mystery being solved).
In British English, you might hear The study shows that more often in news, while American academic papers love The results indicate that. They all live in the same 'smart-sounding' family.
Real Conversations
Professor
Student
Professor
Journalist
Expert
Journalist
Quick FAQ
Is it okay to use 'I' with this phrase?
Usually, no. In academic writing, we prefer 'This research indicates' rather than 'My research indicates' to stay objective. It’s about the work, not the worker!
What is the difference between 'indicates' and 'suggests'?
Think of 'indicates' as a strong signal and 'suggests' as a gentle hint. If a child has chocolate on their face, it 'indicates' they ate the cake. If the cake is missing, it only 'suggests' they might have.
Can I use this in a business email?
Yes, absolutely. If you are presenting a market report or customer feedback, it sounds very professional. Just don't use it for trivial things like the office lunch menu.
Usage Notes
Use this phrase to sound objective and professional. Avoid adding objects like 'me' or 'us' after 'indicates.' Stick to the present tense 'indicates' unless referring to a specific historical context.
Avoid 'Proves'
In English academic culture, scientists rarely say 'prove' because they are always open to new data. Using 'indicates' makes you look more sophisticated and intellectually humble.
The 'Me' Trap
Never say 'This research indicates me that.' It's a common mistake for Spanish and French speakers. Just go straight to 'that'.
The Third Person
Native speakers use 'This research' to sound objective. Even if YOU did the research, saying 'This research' instead of 'My research' is a cultural signal of professional distance.
Spice it up
If you use 'indicates' three times in one essay, it gets boring. Try 'The data demonstrates' or 'The results illustrate' for variety.
Examples
10This research indicates that social media usage directly correlates with sleep deprivation in teenagers.
This research indicates that social media usage directly correlates with sleep deprivation in teenagers.
A classic academic usage linking a cause to an effect.
Our latest research indicates that customers prefer video ads over static images.
Our latest research indicates that customers prefer video ads over static images.
Shows authority in a business setting.
Recent research indicates that a Mediterranean diet can significantly lower heart disease risks.
Recent research indicates that a Mediterranean diet can significantly lower heart disease risks.
Used to summarize health findings for the general public.
This research indicates that there might be liquid water beneath the surface of Mars.
This research indicates that there might be liquid water beneath the surface of Mars.
Adds weight to an exciting scientific possibility.
✗ This research indicates that you are late for our coffee date → ✓ You are late for our coffee date.
✗ This research indicates that you are late for our coffee date → ✓ You are late for our coffee date.
This phrase is too formal for casual social observations.
✗ The research indicates me that the price will rise → ✓ The research indicates that the price will rise.
✗ The research indicates me that the price will rise → ✓ The research indicates that the price will rise.
Do not put 'me' or 'us' after 'indicates'.
While some might disagree, this research indicates that cats have successfully trained humans to be their servants.
While some might disagree, this research indicates that cats have successfully trained humans to be their servants.
Using formal language for a funny observation.
This research indicates that we spend 5 hours a day on our phones. Time for a digital detox?
This research indicates that we spend 5 hours a day on our phones. Time for a digital detox?
Using 'academic' weight to make a social media point more serious.
This research indicates that we have only ten years to change our habits if we want to save the reef.
This research indicates that we have only ten years to change our habits if we want to save the reef.
Using data to support an emotional call to action.
This research indicates that even small acts of kindness can boost long-term happiness levels.
This research indicates that even small acts of kindness can boost long-term happiness levels.
Reporting on positive psychological findings.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank
We use the third-person singular present 'indicates' because 'research' is an uncountable singular noun.
Choose the correct option
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
'Indicate' should not be followed by an indirect object like 'us' or 'me' in this structure.
Find and fix the error
'Research' is an uncountable noun in English; we don't say 'researches' when referring to a study or body of work.
Fill in the blank
The noun 'research' is the standard subject for this phrase.
Fill in the blank
We use the conjunction 'that' to introduce the clause containing the finding.
Fill in the blank
'Research' is uncountable, so we use 'this' instead of 'these'.
Choose the correct option
When would you NOT use this phrase?
The phrase is too formal for casual texting about everyday things.
Put the words in correct order
The standard order is: Subject (This research) + Verb (indicates) + Conjunction (that) + Clause (it is effective).
Find and fix the error
You need the '-s' for the third-person singular subject 'research'.
Fill in the blank
Even 'Initial research' works perfectly with this structure.
Put the words in correct order
Note that 'The' can also be used instead of 'This' depending on context.
Find and fix the error
Remove 'us'. You cannot have an object between 'indicates' and 'that' in this formal pattern.
🎉 Score: /12
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of Reporting Findings
Used with friends
It shows that...
Everyday work/news
Findings show that...
Essays and reports
This research indicates that...
High-level journals
Evidence corroborates that...
Where to use 'This research indicates that'
University Essay
Discussing a theory
Business Report
Customer trends
Science News
Health discoveries
Job Interview
Explaining your data
Ted Talk
Spreading an idea
Indicates vs. Suggests vs. Proves
Types of Research Evidence
Data Types
- • Statistics
- • Survey results
- • Lab experiments
Source Types
- • Academic papers
- • Industry reports
- • Field observations
Practice Bank
12 exercisesThis research ___ that students learn better with music.
We use the third-person singular present 'indicates' because 'research' is an uncountable singular noun.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
'Indicate' should not be followed by an indirect object like 'us' or 'me' in this structure.
Find and fix the mistake:
This researches indicates that the policy is working.
'Research' is an uncountable noun in English; we don't say 'researches' when referring to a study or body of work.
This ___ indicates that the planet is warming.
The noun 'research' is the standard subject for this phrase.
This research indicates ___ exercise is good for you.
We use the conjunction 'that' to introduce the clause containing the finding.
___ research indicates that sugar is bad for teeth.
'Research' is uncountable, so we use 'this' instead of 'these'.
When would you NOT use this phrase?
The phrase is too formal for casual texting about everyday things.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
The standard order is: Subject (This research) + Verb (indicates) + Conjunction (that) + Clause (it is effective).
Find and fix the mistake:
This research indicate that the cost is too high.
You need the '-s' for the third-person singular subject 'research'.
Initial ___ indicates that the experiment was a success.
Even 'Initial research' works perfectly with this structure.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
Note that 'The' can also be used instead of 'This' depending on context.
Find and fix the mistake:
Research indicates us that we need more time.
Remove 'us'. You cannot have an object between 'indicates' and 'that' in this formal pattern.
🎉 Score: /12
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
20 questionsYou can, but it might sound a bit sarcastic or overly serious. It is like wearing a tuxedo to a grocery store—it's not wrong, but people will notice you are being very formal.
It is always 'research indicates.' In English, 'research' is an uncountable noun, so we treat it as singular. We never say 'researches' when referring to the activity of studying something.
'Shows' is more direct and common in everyday English. 'Indicates' is the more formal, 'academic' brother of 'shows.' Use 'indicates' when you want to sound more professional.
In formal writing, yes, you should almost always include 'that' to introduce the clause. While casual English sometimes drops 'that', keeping it in this phrase ensures your sentence is clear and grammatically sound.
Yes, you can say 'This research indicated that' if you are referring to a study that was completed in the past and its findings were relevant at that time. However, present tense is more common if the findings are still true today.
Yes, 'indicates' implies a stronger link between the data and the conclusion. If you use 'suggests,' you are being more cautious and allowing for other interpretations of the evidence.
Absolutely! It's a great way to introduce data about sales, customers, or market trends. It makes your email sound data-driven and well-researched, which bosses usually love.
You can use 'demonstrates,' 'illustrates,' 'reveals,' or 'points to.' Each has a slightly different vibe, but they all serve the same purpose of linking data to a conclusion.
In science and academia, theories are always subject to change if new evidence appears. Saying 'proves' suggests the debate is closed forever, while 'indicates' leaves a small door open for future discoveries.
Yes, it is a standard academic phrase used across all major dialects of English. Whether you are in London, New York, or Sydney, the phrase remains a staple of formal writing.
Yes, especially if you are asked about your experience or a project. Saying 'Research I conducted indicated that...' sounds much more impressive than 'I found out that...'
A full sentence (a clause) must follow. For example: 'This research indicates that [the price is too high].' The bracketed part is a complete thought with its own subject and verb.
It is uncountable and singular. Therefore, the verb must be 'indicates' (with an -s) in the present tense. This is one of the most common mistakes for English learners.
The continuous form 'is indicating' is much less common in formal writing. It’s better to stick to the simple present 'indicates' for a more permanent and authoritative tone.
Yes, even if your research is based on interviews and words rather than numbers, you can still say it 'indicates' a certain theme or trend among the participants.
Vary your sentence starters! Instead of 'This research indicates,' you can use 'The data shows,' 'Our findings suggest,' or 'Analysis of the results reveals that.'
It stems from a Western cultural value of 'objectivity.' By making the research the subject, the speaker removes themselves from the statement, making it sound more like a fact and less like an opinion.
The most common mistake is adding an object like 'me' or 'us.' Remember: 'The research indicates that,' NOT 'The research indicates me that.' Avoid that extra word!
Yes, it is perfect for high school or university reports. It shows your teacher that you are learning the proper register and style of academic discourse.
No, it implies a high level of probability but stops short of 100%. It means the evidence points strongly in one direction, but it's not a mathematical absolute.
Related Phrases
The data suggests that
informal versionThe evidence hints at a possibility but is not conclusive.
This is a slightly softer version used when you want to be even more cautious with your claims.
The findings demonstrate that
formal versionThe evidence clearly shows or proves a point in a visual or undeniable way.
This is a stronger, more assertive alternative when the evidence is extremely clear.
Evidence points to
related topicThe available facts suggest a certain direction or conclusion.
This phrase focuses more on the 'direction' the evidence is leading rather than the research itself.
In light of these findings
related topicConsidering the results that have been presented.
This is a great transition phrase to use *after* you have used 'This research indicates that.'
The results illustrate that
synonymThe outcomes of the study make a specific point very clear.
This is a good synonym to avoid repeating 'indicates' too many times in a single paper.
