that reads

USAGE SUMMARY

"that reads" is a perfectly fine phrase to use in written English.
You would use it when explaining that something is written in a certain way. For example, "The passage that reads, 'The quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dog', contains all the letters of the alphabet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

— cannot find one that reads "Ubaldo".

The New York Times

Rose's is a line that reads.

The Washington Post

A fairground ride that reads your mind?

The Guardian - Tech

Change the text that reads "name" to read "small".

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

note on that page that reads "Prot I 1835 Kurlbaum".

Columbia University

As a memoirist, I'm fascinated by fiction that reads like memoir and memoir that reads like fiction.

Princeton University

The winner is the company that reads the signal first.

Harvard Business Review

Wow, how simplified and yearning that reads now.

The New York Times - Arts

Above the stage is a banner that reads "I.A.M.A.P.O.E.T.T.O.O".

The New Yorker

"It's a story that reads like a roller-coaster ride.

The New Yorker

We are each clutching a black leaflet that reads: "Warning.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "which says" or "that states" if you want to emphasize the content over the act of reading itself.

Common error

Avoid using "that reads" when the subject is vague or undefined. For example, instead of saying, "The document that reads unclear," specify which part of the document you are referring to, such as, "The section that reads 'ambiguous terms' is unclear."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that reads" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun (e.g., 'sign', 'text', 'label') by specifying its content. As Ludwig AI highlights, this construction appears frequently in both formal and informal contexts to describe the specific wording of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

28%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that reads" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the specific wording found in various texts and inscriptions. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely accepted and appropriate for many writing styles. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for both formal and informal communication. Remember to ensure the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives such as "which says" or "that states" to enhance clarity or emphasize content.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

which says

Focuses on the content being stated, rather than the act of reading.

that states

Highlights the explicit declaration or assertion within the text.

which indicates

Emphasizes the implied meaning or suggestion of the text.

that is worded

Specifically addresses the phrasing and style of the text.

that expresses

Focuses on the conveyance of a thought or feeling through the text.

that contains the wording

Highlights the inclusion of specific terms within the text

with the inscription

Indicates that words are formally written or engraved on something.

having the text

Emphasizes the physical presence of the specified text.

bearing the legend

Suggests a traditional or historical connotation to the written text.

as it is written

Draws attention to the literal and exact form of the written statement.

FAQs

How can I use "that reads" in a sentence?

Use "that reads" to describe the specific wording of a text, sign, or label. For example, "The sign "that reads 'Welcome'" greeted visitors at the entrance."

What phrases are similar to "that reads"?

Alternatives to "that reads" include phrases like "which says", "that states", or "which indicates". Choose the phrase that best fits the context and emphasizes the aspect you want to highlight.

Is it appropriate to use "that reads" in formal writing?

Yes, "that reads" is suitable for formal writing as long as it's used correctly to clearly refer to a specific text or inscription. Its neutrality makes it versatile for various contexts.

What's the difference between "that reads" and "as it is written"?

"That reads" generally describes the content of a text, while "as it is written" emphasizes the exact, literal form of the writing. Use "as it is written" when you want to draw attention to the specific wording.