where it says

USAGE SUMMARY

"where it says" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a specific place in a written (or other) document, such as a law, article, or book. For example, you might say, "Read the article, and follow the instructions it gives in the section where it says 'Procedures.'".

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

See where it says 'Passenger Cars Only'?

The New Yorker

See where it says "droit moral"?

The New Yorker

Where it says "race," write "human".

The New York Times

"Yes, I get emails where it says 5.32am," he says.

The Guardian - Music

Where it says "pay to" write your name.

Huffington Post

It's on my website, where it says "Personal".

Vice

Show me where it says that in the bible!

Vice

The same applies to Fig.5, where it says that blue symbols depict So phase.

F1000Research

Look at the Rules of Procedure, where it says may, but without obligation.

EU Parlament

Click where it says "time.

WikiHow

Select where it says "Activity.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "where it says", ensure the referenced text is clearly identifiable to avoid ambiguity. Provide context if necessary.

Common error

Avoid using "where it says" without verifying the accuracy of the statement in the referenced text. Double-check that the text says exactly what you claim it does.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "where it says" functions as a relative clause, introducing information about a specific location within a text or document. Ludwig confirms this widespread usage, supporting its function in guiding the reader to a particular point.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

68%

News & Media

21%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "where it says" is a common and grammatically sound way to direct attention to a specific part of a text. According to Ludwig, its use is confirmed across various sources. While predominantly found in WikiHow and News & Media, it serves to highlight particular details. Alternatives like "in the section that states" may be suitable for more formal contexts. Ensure clarity and accuracy when referencing text using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

where it indicates

Slightly more formal synonym.

refer to the part saying

More direct and instructional.

where it is written

Emphasizes the written nature of the reference.

at the point where it mentions

More verbose and formal.

look for the line that reads

Emphasizes the act of reading.

in the area that notes

Slightly more descriptive.

in the section that states

More formal and specific to written text.

check the spot which details

Informal and emphasizes details.

see the passage that specifies

More formal and emphasizes precision.

the portion which expresses

More formal and literary.

FAQs

How can I use "where it says" in a sentence?

You can use "where it says" to direct someone's attention to a specific part of a text. For example, "Follow the instructions "where it says" 'Mix ingredients thoroughly'.

What are some alternatives to using "where it says"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in the section that states", "where it indicates", or "refer to the part saying", depending on the level of formality and context.

Is it better to use "where it says" or "where it states"?

"Where it states" is slightly more formal than "where it says". Choose the phrase that best fits the overall tone and register of your writing. Both "where it says" and "where it states" are grammatically correct.

Can I use "where it says" in formal writing?

While "where it says" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "in the section that states" or "as specified in" may be preferable in highly formal contexts.