states otherwise

USAGE SUMMARY

"states otherwise" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
The phrase is used to indicate that something in the sentence has been contradicted by another source. This phrase usually follows a statement of fact. For example, "The law requires employees to take a certain number of vacation days each year, but the employee's contract states otherwise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Yet, the recent Guardian piece states otherwise.

The Guardian - Books

Unless the assignment explicitly states otherwise, you may not collaborate with other students on the homework.

Princeton University

Generally, the least expensive gasoline available is the best choice, unless your car manufacturer states otherwise.

The New York Times

In fact, unless your label explicitly states otherwise, your clothes were probably made in a sweatshop.

The Guardian - Opinion

EU members will be obliged to treat UK goods and services as alien, unless a treaty explicitly states otherwise.

The Guardian - Opinion

These terms and conditions apply to all competitions (unless and to the extent that) the competition states otherwise.

The Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Like European nation-states, otherwise well-intentioned headphones can be dragged into chaos over relatively trivial matters.

The New York Times

The facts state otherwise.

The Guardian - Opinion

To state otherwise is a baldfaced lie.

Harvard University

Measured in radians unless stated otherwise.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

All are free weeklies unless stated otherwise.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "states otherwise", ensure the contrasting information is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "states otherwise" without clearly specifying what is being contradicted. For instance, instead of saying "The rule states one thing, but reality states otherwise", specify what "reality" refers to for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "states otherwise" functions as a declarative expression, indicating that a preceding statement is contradicted or qualified by another source. It introduces an exception or alternative to a previously mentioned rule, fact, or condition. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is widely accepted and utilized across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "states otherwise" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a contradiction or qualification of a previous statement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its neutral register makes it suitable for a wide range of contexts, including news, academic writing, and general communication. When employing "states otherwise", clarity is crucial. Ensure that the source of the contrasting information is evident to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "indicates differently" or "suggests an alternative" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Remember to avoid misattributing sources and always strive for clear communication to prevent misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

indicates differently

This alternative focuses on the act of indicating a different condition or fact.

specifies differently

This alternative emphasizes the act of specifically pointing out a difference.

provides a different account

This alternative highlights the offering of an alternative narrative or explanation.

contradicts this

This alternative uses a more direct term for opposition of statements.

suggests an alternative

This alternative focuses on proposing a different possibility.

presents a conflicting view

This alternative highlights the clash of perspectives.

offers a contrary opinion

This alternative emphasizes the differing viewpoint.

the opposite is true

This alternative uses the opposite proposition.

records something different

This alternative focuses on a different record.

reports otherwise

A more concise way to say something different is reported.

FAQs

How can I use "states otherwise" in a sentence?

Use "states otherwise" to indicate a contradiction between two sources of information. For example, "The manual says to use only distilled water, but the technician "states otherwise" and recommends tap water."

What's a simpler way to express "states otherwise"?

You can use alternatives like "indicates differently", "suggests an alternative", or "contradicts this" to replace ""states otherwise"", depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state what "states otherwise" refers to?

While not always grammatically required, explicitly stating what ""states otherwise"" refers to enhances clarity and prevents potential misinterpretations.

Can "states otherwise" be used in formal writing?

Yes, ""states otherwise"" is appropriate for formal writing, as it's a clear and concise way to indicate a discrepancy between sources. However, ensure the source of the contradiction is evident.