makes clear

USAGE SUMMARY

"makes clear" is a perfectly correct phrase and is often used in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that has been stated in a way that is easy to comprehend. For example: The author's analysis of the situation makes clear that the company has gone through a period of rapid growth.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The photographic plate makes clear.

The New Yorker

Now that makes clear who just who this guy is.

The New York Times - Arts

Her cleaning, Ruhl makes clear, is an act of sublimation.

The New Yorker

As that postscript makes clear, Allman is an indignant storyteller.

The New York Times - Books

But as Mitnick makes clear here, don't jump to conclusions.

The New York Times

Pacino's focus, the house makes clear, is resolutely inward.

The New Yorker

The study also makes clear the cost of such policies.

The New York Times

As your article makes clear, Pakistan is in crisis.

The New York Times

Dyke's letter makes clear his misgivings over Mourinho's behaviour.

Independent

And, as today's decision makes clear, they will.

The New York Times

He makes clear the arbitrariness of the Nobel Prizes.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "makes clear" to introduce a deduction or insight derived from presented information, creating a logical connection for the reader. For example, "The data makes clear that further investment is needed."

Common error

Avoid using "makes clear" when a more direct verb would suffice. Instead of "This makes clear the point," opt for "This demonstrates the point" to prevent redundancy and maintain conciseness.

Linguistic Context

Makes clear functions as a verb phrase used to indicate that something serves to clarify or elucidate a particular point or idea. Ludwig AI indicates its widespread use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "makes clear" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that something serves to clarify or elucidate a point. Ludwig AI confirms its prevalence across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, avoiding overuse and opting for more direct verbs in simple declarations can enhance writing. Ultimately, "makes clear" is a useful tool for emphasizing understanding and logical connections in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarifies

This alternative is a single verb that directly implies the act of making something clearer.

elucidates

This alternative offers a more formal and detailed way of expressing the idea of making something clear.

illuminates

This alternative suggests bringing light or understanding to a subject.

demonstrates

This alternative implies showing or proving something, making it evident.

shows

This alternative is a more straightforward and common verb for indicating evidence.

establishes

This alternative emphasizes the act of firmly setting something as a fact or understanding.

reveals

This alternative suggests uncovering or disclosing something previously unknown.

highlights

This alternative emphasizes bringing attention to particular aspects or details.

underscores

This alternative stresses the importance or significance of something.

signifies

This alternative implies indicating or representing something with a specific meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "makes clear" in a sentence?

You can use "makes clear" to indicate that something reveals or clarifies a point, like: "The evidence "makes clear" the need for reform."

What are some alternatives to "makes clear"?

Alternatives to "makes clear" include "clarifies", "elucidates", or "demonstrates", each offering a slightly different nuance.

Is it better to say "make it clear" or "makes clear"?

"Make it clear" is an imperative or infinitive form, used for commands or intentions. "Makes clear" is a present tense form used to describe something that clarifies a point.

What is the difference between "makes clear" and "made clear"?

"Makes clear" is present tense, indicating something is currently clarifying. "Made clear" is past tense, indicating something clarified a point in the past.