the text reads

USAGE SUMMARY

"the text reads" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used when discussing the content or wording of a written text. Here are some examples: - "According to the article, the text reads that the company's profits have increased by 20%." - "In the novel, the text reads with a poetic rhythm that captures the reader's attention." - "The contract clearly states that the text reads 'payment is due within 30 days.'" - "As the text reads, the study found a significant link between diet and cardiovascular health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The backstory: The text reads "Dot Beck's School," an Arkansas preschool he may or may not have attended, operated by a family friend.

Huffington Post

The text reads: "The parliament of Serbia strongly condemns the crime committed against the Bosnian Muslim population of Srebrenica in July 1995".

The Guardian - Opinion

The text reads, "On the surface an intelligible lie; underneath, the unintelligible truth".

The New York Times - Arts

The text reads: "Describe your MP vulture" but the word "MP" has been crossed out with red paint.

The Guardian

The text reads: "You come to someone's house, you enter through the door, you expect a hallway or front room...

The New York Times - Books

The text reads, "Herrera was absent for 7 straight months".

The New York Times

The text reads like a declaration of war.

The Guardian

The text reads, "Now you know why no birth certificate".

The New York Times

The text reads, "As is wont with lovers, a means was promptly found".

The New York Times - Books

The text reads: "Gender is between your ears, not between your legs".

Independent

The text reads, "Since 1932, gulf prawns, 4th generation shrimper, 1st generation Web business, overnight shipping, secure transactions, 2nd boat ordered".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the text reads" to directly quote or paraphrase a specific section of a written document or source.

Common error

Avoid using "the text reads" without providing the relevant text or source. Always ensure that the reader understands where the quoted or paraphrased information is coming from.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the text reads" serves as an introductory phrase to present a direct quotation or paraphrase from a written source. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which show its use in academic, news, and general contexts, indicating its broad applicability in written communication.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the text reads" is a grammatically correct and frequently employed introductory phrase used to cite or paraphrase written material. Ludwig AI validates this, showing examples spanning news, academic, and scientific domains. It is characterized by a neutral register and a primary function of providing evidence and supporting claims. While widely applicable, writers should ensure proper context and avoid using it without clear reference to the source. Alternatives include "the passage states" and "according to the text", offering stylistic variations for different writing contexts. Remember to provide the text source to give the readers transparency and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the passage states

Emphasizes a direct statement from the text.

the document indicates

Focuses on what a document conveys or points to.

according to the text

Highlights that the information is sourced from the text.

the writing says

A more informal way of indicating the text's message.

the article mentions

Refers to specific points made in an article.

the sign says

Specifies a message displayed on a sign.

the label indicates

Highlights information provided on a label.

the inscription reveals

Focuses on information uncovered from an inscription.

the record shows

Indicates information that is documented.

the script describes

Focuses on what a script outlines or details.

FAQs

How do I use "the text reads" in a sentence?

Use "the text reads" to introduce a quote or paraphrase from a written source. For instance, "According to the study, "the text reads", 'further research is needed'.

What can I say instead of "the text reads"?

You can use alternatives like "the passage states", "according to the text", or "the document indicates" depending on the context.

Is it formal to use "the text reads"?

"The text reads" is generally considered neutral and appropriate for both formal and informal writing. However, in highly academic contexts, consider more precise alternatives like "the passage states" or "the document indicates".

What's the difference between "the text reads" and "the text says"?

While both phrases are similar, "the text reads" is slightly more formal and implies a direct quotation or close paraphrase. "The text says" is more casual and can refer to a general idea or summary of the text.