which demonstrate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "which demonstrate" is a grammatically correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a relative clause that provides more information or clarification about the subject of the main clause. For example: "The data, which demonstrate a significant increase in sales, support our decision to expand into new markets." In this sentence, the phrase "which demonstrate" introduces the relative clause "a significant increase in sales" and provides additional information about the data mentioned in the main clause.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Kolbert discusses studies which "demonstrate that reasonable-seeming people are often totally irrational".

The New Yorker

Both of them have records which demonstrate the power of local accountability and neighbourhood policing.

The Guardian

mixes, which demonstrate an encyclopedic grasp of the global R. & B. diaspora.

The New Yorker

Make some inventive graphs which demonstrate how this all works statistically.

The Guardian

Make sure that you include specific examples on your CV which demonstrate areas in common.

The Guardian

This formative time resonates through his sculptures, which demonstrate extraordinary skill against their unnerving simplicity.

The Guardian - Arts

The two-hour show is divided into themed suites, which demonstrate how soundtrack work can spur innovation.

The Guardian - Music

Economists and manufacturing experts have assembled convincing statistics which demonstrate that these moves were part of a broader trend.

The New Yorker

Find examples which demonstrate how your skills, accomplishments and personal qualities are relevant to the role you're applying for.

The Guardian

A listing of recently disclosed facts about rats which demonstrate their anthropoid character.

The New Yorker

He wrote a number of masques and occasional verses, most of which demonstrate some skill.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When the demonstration is a key defining attribute, consider using "that demonstrate" instead.

Common error

Avoid using "that" when introducing a non-restrictive clause. "Which" is appropriate when the information is additional and not essential to the sentence's meaning. For example: Correct: "The results, which demonstrate the effectiveness, are promising." Incorrect: "The results that demonstrate the effectiveness are promising" (unless 'that' is specifically defining which results).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which demonstrate" functions as a relative clause introducing additional information about a noun phrase. According to Ludwig, this construction is grammatically sound and widely used. It provides further detail or evidence related to the subject it modifies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "which demonstrate" is a grammatically correct and commonly used construction in written English. As Ludwig AI highlights, it introduces a non-restrictive relative clause, providing additional information or evidence about a preceding noun. It's most frequently found in scientific and news contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure it modifies the correct noun and consider alternatives like "that illustrate" or "that prove" for nuanced meaning. Remember to use "which" when adding extra information and "that" when defining the noun. With its frequent use and clear function, mastering "which demonstrate" enhances clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that illustrate

Replaces "demonstrate" with "illustrate", focusing on providing visual or clear examples.

that prove

Substitutes "demonstrate" with "prove", emphasizing conclusive evidence.

that exemplify

Replaces "demonstrate" with "exemplify", highlighting the use of examples.

that show

Uses the simpler verb "show" instead of "demonstrate", making it less formal.

that indicate

Replaces "demonstrate" with "indicate", suggesting a less direct form of evidence.

which highlight

Focuses on emphasizing specific aspects rather than a comprehensive demonstration.

which confirm

Emphasizes the act of verifying or establishing something as true.

which validate

Focuses on confirming the accuracy or soundness of something.

which establish

Highlights the act of setting up or proving something firmly.

that evidence

Uses "evidence" as a verb, framing the clause as providing proof.

FAQs

How do I use "which demonstrate" in a sentence?

Use "which demonstrate" to introduce a non-restrictive clause that provides additional, non-essential information about the noun it modifies. For example: "The studies, "which demonstrate" a clear link, are compelling."

What are some alternatives to using "which demonstrate"?

You can use phrases like "that illustrate", "that prove", or "that exemplify" depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "that demonstrate" and "which demonstrate"?

"Which demonstrate" introduces a non-restrictive clause, adding extra information. "That demonstrate" introduces a restrictive clause, essential for defining the noun. For example: "Results "that demonstrate" a clear effect are rare" (defining which results) vs. "The results, "which demonstrate" a clear effect, are valuable" (adding information about the results).

Can I start a sentence with "which demonstrate"?

No, "which demonstrate" cannot start a sentence. It introduces a relative clause that modifies a noun in the main clause. You need a main clause for "which demonstrate" to modify something.