this points to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this points to" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to indicate that a fact or situation is suggesting something. For example: "This points to a need for greater oversight of the company's finances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

But this points to yet another mystery.

The New Yorker

"This points to a worrying picture," said Parish.

The Guardian

All this points to another idea: Modernism is over.

The New York Times - Books

And this points to the main cost of Trump's Russophilia.

The Washington Post

"This points to a spillover of price pressures".

The New York Times

"This points to a restriction of freedoms after the coup".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

This pointed to a "deus in machina" scenario in store.

The Guardian - Opinion

This pointed to a larger problem.

Vice

This pointed to a way forward for economics.

HuffPost

This pointed to cell-type modifications of the "ribosome machine".

BMC Genomics

This contrast points to a crucial lesson.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "this points to" with strong verbs and vivid nouns to enhance the impact of your writing. For example, "This compelling evidence points to a significant shift in market dynamics".

Common error

Avoid using "this points to" repetitively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "suggests", "indicates", or "implies" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this points to" functions as a transitional phrase, connecting a preceding statement or observation to a logical consequence or implication. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it suggests a relationship between pieces of information. Examples in Ludwig show it used to introduce explanations or conclusions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

26%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this points to" is a commonly used phrase that serves as a causal connector, indicating a logical relationship between evidence and a conclusion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Academic writing, it maintains a neutral register. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "this indicates" or "this suggests" for better writing flow. The phrase's effectiveness lies in its ability to guide the reader towards a clear understanding of the presented information and its implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this indicates

Replaces "points" with a more direct synonym, maintaining the indication of a connection.

the evidence suggests

Adds emphasis on the evidentiary nature of the indication.

this suggests

Offers a slightly weaker connotation, implying a possibility rather than a direct connection.

the data indicates

More specific, referencing data as the source of indication.

this implies

Similar to "suggests", but can also mean hinting at something indirectly.

this reveals

Emphasizes the act of uncovering or making something known.

this highlights

Focuses on drawing attention to a specific aspect or detail.

this signifies

Conveys that something is being represented or symbolized.

this demonstrates

Indicates that something is being proven or shown clearly.

this alludes to

Suggests something indirectly or vaguely.

FAQs

What does "this points to" mean?

The phrase "this points to" indicates that a particular fact, situation, or piece of evidence suggests or implies a certain conclusion or outcome.

How can I use "this points to" in a sentence?

You can use "this points to" to highlight a connection or implication. For example: "The increase in sales this quarter "this points to" a growing customer base."

What are some alternatives to "this points to"?

Alternatives include phrases like "this indicates", "this suggests", or "this implies", which offer similar ways to connect evidence to a conclusion.

Is "this points to" formal or informal?

"This points to" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, consider your audience and context to decide if a more precise or sophisticated phrase might be appropriate.