Contemporary studies show
Research methodology and reporting expression
Use this phrase to introduce modern, evidence-based facts and sound like an informed expert.
In 15 Seconds
- Introduces facts from recent scientific or academic research.
- Adds authority and credibility to your professional statements.
- Best for meetings, essays, and serious debates about trends.
Meaning
This phrase is a sophisticated way to say 'Recent research tells us.' It is used to introduce facts or findings from modern scientific or academic work.
Key Examples
3 of 7Discussing office productivity
Contemporary studies show that taking short breaks actually increases focus.
Contemporary studies show that taking short breaks actually increases focus.
Talking about health with a friend
Contemporary studies show that even ten minutes of walking helps your heart.
Contemporary studies show that even ten minutes of walking helps your heart.
A formal business presentation
Contemporary studies show a shift in consumer behavior toward sustainable brands.
Contemporary studies show a shift in consumer behavior toward sustainable brands.
Cultural Background
This phrase reflects the modern Western obsession with scientific validation. As traditional authorities like religion or folklore declined, 'the study' became the new source of truth. It is a staple of 'TED Talk' style communication where data is used to inspire change.
The 'Vague' Power
You don't always have to name the specific study immediately. This phrase buys you time to sound smart while you remember the details!
Don't Overuse It
If you use this phrase five times in one meeting, people will think you are a robot. Mix it up with `Research suggests`.
In 15 Seconds
- Introduces facts from recent scientific or academic research.
- Adds authority and credibility to your professional statements.
- Best for meetings, essays, and serious debates about trends.
What It Means
Contemporary studies show is a heavy-hitter in the world of facts. It tells your listener that you aren't just sharing an opinion. You are sharing information backed by modern science or data. The word contemporary means 'happening now' or 'recent.' When you use this phrase, you are saying the information is up-to-date. It sounds much more impressive than saying 'I read somewhere.'
How To Use It
Use this phrase at the very beginning of a sentence. It acts like a formal introduction to a fact. You follow it with a specific finding or trend. For example: Contemporary studies show that remote work improves employee happiness. It is like wearing a lab coat for your words. It gives you instant authority in a conversation. Just make sure you actually have a real fact ready to follow it!
When To Use It
This is perfect for professional settings like meetings or presentations. It also works great in academic writing or serious essays. You can use it during a debate with friends to sound more convincing. If you are discussing health, technology, or social trends, this phrase is your best friend. It shows you are well-informed and keep up with current events. It is the 'gold standard' for starting a serious point.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for personal feelings or trivial things. Saying Contemporary studies show I like pizza sounds ridiculous. Avoid it in very casual settings, like a first date or a loud party. You might come across as a bit too 'academic' or stiff. Also, don't use it if the research is 50 years old. That is definitely not contemporary! Using it for old news makes you look out of touch.
Cultural Background
In Western culture, there is a massive emphasis on data and 'evidence-based' living. People love to feel that their choices are backed by science. This phrase became very popular as the internet made research more accessible. It reflects a shift from trusting tradition to trusting data. It is the language of the 'expert' class in modern society. Everyone wants to be the person who knows what the 'studies' say.
Common Variations
Recent research suggests(slightly less certain)Modern data indicates(more focused on numbers)Current findings demonstrate(very formal and strong)New evidence reveals(sounds a bit more dramatic)
Usage Notes
This is a high-register expression. It is most effective in professional, academic, or journalistic writing. In speech, use it to add weight to an argument, but avoid it in lighthearted social chatter.
The 'Vague' Power
You don't always have to name the specific study immediately. This phrase buys you time to sound smart while you remember the details!
Don't Overuse It
If you use this phrase five times in one meeting, people will think you are a robot. Mix it up with `Research suggests`.
The 'Study' Myth
In English-speaking media, 'a new study' is a common trope used to grab attention. Use this phrase to sound like a news anchor.
Examples
7Contemporary studies show that taking short breaks actually increases focus.
Contemporary studies show that taking short breaks actually increases focus.
Used to support a management strategy with data.
Contemporary studies show that even ten minutes of walking helps your heart.
Contemporary studies show that even ten minutes of walking helps your heart.
Giving friendly advice backed by science.
Contemporary studies show a shift in consumer behavior toward sustainable brands.
Contemporary studies show a shift in consumer behavior toward sustainable brands.
Presenting market research to stakeholders.
Contemporary studies show I’m legally a zombie without eight hours of sleep.
Contemporary studies show I’m legally a zombie without eight hours of sleep.
Using a formal phrase for a funny, exaggerated personal point.
Contemporary studies show that doing absolutely nothing is vital for mental health.
Contemporary studies show that doing absolutely nothing is vital for mental health.
Using 'science' to defend a personal choice playfully.
Contemporary studies show that urban areas are warming faster than rural ones.
Contemporary studies show that urban areas are warming faster than rural ones.
Discussing a serious global issue with gravity.
Contemporary studies show that early bilingualism benefits cognitive flexibility.
Contemporary studies show that early bilingualism benefits cognitive flexibility.
Sharing encouraging research with a parent.
Test Yourself
Choose the best word to complete the professional statement.
___ studies show that employee retention is linked to workplace culture.
`Contemporary` is the correct academic term for recent or modern research.
Complete the phrase to introduce a new finding.
Contemporary studies ___ that blue light affects sleep quality.
The standard collocation is `studies show` or `studies suggest`.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of Research Phrases
Talking with friends
I heard that...
General conversation
Experts say...
Business/Academic
Contemporary studies show...
Scientific Journal
Empirical longitudinal data indicates...
Where to use 'Contemporary studies show'
Boardroom Meeting
Proving a new strategy works.
University Essay
Citing modern academic sources.
Health Blog
Explaining new diet trends.
Serious Debate
Winning an argument with facts.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsEssentially, yes. It refers to things happening in the present or very recently, usually within the last 5-10 years in a research context.
Almost! Show is stronger and implies a proven fact. Suggest is a bit softer and safer if the research isn't 100% certain yet.
It might be a bit too formal. For a casual email, try I saw an article that said... instead.
In this context, they are very similar. Contemporary feels slightly more academic and specific to the current moment than modern.
In a formal paper, yes. In a conversation, you can just summarize the main point after the phrase.
Usually, we keep it in the present tense because the studies still 'show' that information now. Contemporary studies showed sounds like they don't show it anymore.
It is almost always plural: studies show. This implies that multiple pieces of research agree on the topic.
Only if you are talking about *new* research *about* history. For example: Contemporary studies show the Vikings reached America earlier than we thought.
Not if used correctly. It sounds professional. However, if you use it to shut down someone's personal experience, it might seem a bit cold.
Be careful! English speakers value accuracy. If you say Contemporary studies show and someone asks 'Which ones?', you should have an answer ready.
Related Phrases
Recent findings indicate
Very similar, used to report new results from a specific project.
Empirical evidence suggests
A very formal way to say the data points to a conclusion.
According to current literature
Used in academia to refer to all the books and papers written on a topic recently.
The consensus among experts is
Used when almost all scientists or professionals agree on a fact.
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