the statement reads

USAGE SUMMARY

"the statement reads" is a perfectly acceptable and usable phrase in written English.
For example: "The statement reads, 'The company will be closed until further notice.'".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

The statement reads, "None of the events claimed in the suit ever occurred.

Huffington Post

The statement reads: "Plastic is not an option but a necessity.

The New York Times

The statement reads more like a press release than a legal declaration.

The Guardian

The statement reads February 2014.

Vice

"We welcome media supervision," the statement reads.

The New York Times

Group is not authentic," the statement reads.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

service members," the statement read.

The New York Times

the statement read.

The Guardian

"We are not racists," the statement read.

The New York Times - Sports

Thank you all so much," the statement read.

Independent

There are reported to be six survivors," the statement read.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the statement reads", ensure the quoted text is verbatim to avoid misrepresentation. Verify the accuracy of the statement against the original source.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "the statement reads". Vary your sentence structure by using alternatives like "according to the statement" or rephrasing to integrate the quote more smoothly into your text.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the statement reads" functions as a reporting clause, introducing direct quotations from a source. It prefaces the actual words from the statement, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the statement reads" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce direct quotes, particularly in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI validates its appropriate use. While it's a useful phrase for providing verifiable information from sources, overuse can lead to repetitive writing. Consider using alternatives like "the declaration states" or "according to the statement" to vary your sentence structure. Be sure to quote accurately and attribute the source clearly when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the declaration states

Replaces "reads" with "states", emphasizing the formal nature of the statement.

the document indicates

Uses "indicates" to highlight that the statement is part of a larger document and provides specific information.

according to the statement

Highlights the origin of the information, attributing it directly to the statement.

the release mentions

Specifically refers to a press release, using "mentions" to introduce a key point.

the communique asserts

Emphasizes the firm and confident nature of the statement, using the word 'asserts'.

the memo details

Suggests a more detailed explanation is contained in the statement

the letter explains

This alternative indicates that the statement is part of a letter and provides specific information

the report specifies

This alternative suggests a report has been produced, being more specific about the contents inside.

the announcement confirms

This alternative emphasizes that the statement is an official announcement, typically confirming a certain event.

the filing notes

This alternative indicates that the statement is part of a legal or regulatory filing, offering official remarks.

FAQs

How do I properly use "the statement reads" in a sentence?

Use "the statement reads" to introduce a direct quote from a source. For example: "The statement reads, 'We are committed to providing excellent service.'" Ensure the quoted text is exactly as it appears in the original statement.

What are some alternatives to "the statement reads"?

You can use alternatives like "the declaration states", "according to the statement", or "the document indicates" depending on the context and the formality of the source.

Is it grammatically correct to say "the statement is reading" instead of "the statement reads"?

No, "the statement is reading" is not grammatically correct in this context. The correct and commonly accepted phrase is "the statement reads", which uses the simple present tense to introduce the content of the statement.

Can I use "the statement reads" when paraphrasing instead of directly quoting?

No, "the statement reads" should only be used when you are providing a direct quote. When paraphrasing, use phrases like "the statement indicates that" or "the statement explains that".