the figures suggest that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the figures suggest that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when presenting data or statistics that imply a certain conclusion or trend based on the information provided. Example: "The figures suggest that there has been a significant increase in sales over the past quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And the figures suggest that he was right.

The Guardian - Sport

The figures suggest that the Lib Dems have been taking support from the Tories.

The Guardian

But the figures suggest that systematic problems are contributing to the strain on hospitals.

The Guardian

In fact, the figures suggest that the overall effect will be varied.

The Guardian

The figures "suggest that the company is making progress in cost management".

The New York Times

The figures suggest that more young people are refusing drugs in spite of their availability.

The Guardian

The figures suggest that this happens more often than is justified.

The Economist

Yet the figures suggest that it is an economy-wide problem.

The Economist

The figures suggest that the tumultuous shifts in family structure since the late 1960s have leveled off since 1990.

The New York Times

The figures suggest that 109 out of every 100,000 children were recorded as being attacked in England and Wales.

The Guardian

The figures suggest that students looking for an overseas education are becoming more choosy about where they go.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the figures suggest that" to introduce a claim that is supported by numerical data, but not definitively proven. This phrasing is useful when you want to present an interpretation of data without overstating the certainty of your conclusion.

Common error

Avoid using "the figures suggest that" when the data clearly proves a point. In such cases, stronger phrasing like "the figures prove that" or "the figures demonstrate that" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the figures suggest that" functions as an introductory phrase. As Ludwig highlights, it introduces an interpretation or conclusion based on numerical data. It serves to soften claims, indicating support rather than definitive proof. For example, "The figures suggest that more young people are refusing drugs in spite of their availability."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the figures suggest that" is a versatile phrase used to present data-driven interpretations without asserting absolute certainty. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage across news, scientific, and business contexts. When writing, remember to use this phrase when you want to imply a conclusion based on numerical evidence, avoid overstating your claims, and be mindful of the overall formality of your text. Alternatives such as "the data indicates that" or "the statistics imply that" can add nuance to your writing depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the data indicates that

Focuses on the data as a direct pointer toward a conclusion, rather than a suggestion.

the statistics imply that

Uses a more formal term ("statistics") and emphasizes the indirect nature of the conclusion.

the numbers point to

Employs a more casual and directional metaphor, suggesting a clear indication.

evidence indicates that

Broadens the scope from figures to any kind of evidence, implying a potentially wider range of support.

analysis reveals that

Highlights the role of analysis in uncovering the conclusion.

the results imply

Uses 'results' to suggest findings from a study or experiment, implying a scientific context.

it can be inferred that

Shifts to a passive construction, emphasizing the act of inference itself.

the trend suggests

Specifies that the figures represent a trend, indicating a development over time.

one can conclude that

Introduces a personal element (one), indicating a conclusion drawn by an individual.

the evidence leads us to believe

This alternative emphasizes the evidence, highlighting its role in shaping our beliefs or understanding.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "the figures suggest that" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "the data indicates that" or "the statistics imply that". These alternatives convey a similar meaning while maintaining a professional register.

Is it appropriate to use "the figures suggest that" in academic writing?

Yes, "the figures suggest that" is appropriate for academic writing when you want to present an interpretation of data without making an absolute claim. It indicates that your conclusion is based on the available evidence but acknowledges the possibility of alternative interpretations.

What's the difference between "the figures suggest that" and "the figures prove that"?

"The figures suggest that" implies that the data supports a particular conclusion, but does not definitively establish it. "The figures prove that", on the other hand, indicates a much stronger claim where the data leaves no room for doubt. Use the former when interpreting trends and the latter only when the evidence is conclusive.

When should I avoid using "the figures suggest that"?

Avoid using "the figures suggest that" in contexts where the data is incomplete or unreliable, or where your conclusion is based on speculation rather than evidence. In such cases, it's better to acknowledge the limitations of your data and avoid making strong claims.