what it suggests

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what it suggests" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the implications or meanings of something, such as a statement, action, or piece of art. Example: "The painting is open to interpretation, and what it suggests about human emotions is profound."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

In "Lydia's Grove," Lara records her mother's flustered reaction after a secluded moment with a female friend, but the girl never understands its implications, never realizes what it suggests about the other woman's sexuality.

The New York Times - Books

The Simon Wiesenthal Center last week highlighted what it suggests is an ongoing problem, with its list of the 10 most high profile anti-Semitic outbursts of 2010.

Independent

But it's a very big deal in its own right, largely because of what it suggests about Google's future, and ours.

The Guardian - Opinion

"What it suggests to me is it is going to reverse itself.

The New York Times

"What it suggests is that there might be unknown or unintended effects," he told me.

The New Yorker

The most important element is the underlying phenomenon and what it suggests about Syria today.

The New York Times

You need knowledge of all of this to figure out what it means, what it suggests.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"The River" is most telling in what it suggests about Ailey as a choreographer.

The New York Times - Arts

"It's about what you make, what you learn from it and what it suggests.

The Guardian - Arts

What it suggests is that a student thinks they get more benefit to going after somebody who is a rival".

The New York Times

"When you put these elements together, what it suggests to us is a neurotoxic agent," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what it suggests" to introduce an interpretation or implication derived from a situation, statement, or piece of evidence. This helps signal to your audience that you are about to present a reasoned conclusion rather than a statement of fact.

Common error

Avoid presenting "what it suggests" as a definitive conclusion if the evidence is weak or ambiguous. Instead, acknowledge the uncertainty with phrases like "it may suggest" or "it tentatively suggests" to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what it suggests" functions as a noun clause, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples from Ludwig show it introducing an interpretation or implication drawn from information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "what it suggests" is a versatile and frequently used construction for introducing interpretations and inferences across a range of contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in written English. Predominantly featured in news, media and scientific sources, it serves to present a reasoned conclusion or implication derived from a given context, rather than stating a definitive fact. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to avoid overstating the strength of the suggestion and to acknowledge any uncertainties. Remember to use alternatives if the situation demands it, but overall you can consider "what it suggests" an effective method to improve your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the suggestion made

Similar to the original but emphasizes the act of suggesting itself.

what it implies

Focuses on the subtle, indirect communication or hint being conveyed.

what it indicates

Emphasizes a sign or signal that points to a particular conclusion or fact.

what it signifies

Highlights the deeper meaning or symbolic importance.

what it reveals

Stresses the act of uncovering or disclosing something previously unknown.

the implications thereof

A more formal way of referring to what naturally follows or is involved.

the inference to be drawn

Highlights the act of deducing a conclusion based on evidence.

what one can gather

Focuses on collecting or understanding information.

the message conveyed

Centers on communicating a specific piece of information or idea.

the impression given

Highlights the feeling or idea that is created in someone's mind.

FAQs

How can I use "what it suggests" in a sentence?

Use "what it suggests" to introduce an interpretation, implication, or conclusion you've drawn from something. For instance, "The data is inconclusive, but "what it suggests" is that further research is needed".

What's a more formal alternative to "what it suggests"?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "what it implies" or "the inference to be drawn". These options provide a similar meaning with a slightly elevated level of formality.

Is "what it suggests" subjective or objective?

The phrase "what it suggests" often implies a degree of subjectivity, as it introduces an interpretation. While it should be based on evidence, it's still an inferred meaning rather than a hard fact. It's important to present it as an interpretation, not an absolute truth.

What's the difference between "what it suggests" and "what it proves"?

"What it suggests" indicates an implication or a possible conclusion, while "what it proves" asserts a confirmed fact. Suggestion is tentative, whereas proof is conclusive. Use ""what it suggests"" when you're inferring meaning, and "what it proves" when you're presenting verified information.