Holcombe:PhrasesForGrantsAndPapers

Words for theories and hypotheses
 * notion
 * idea
 * generalization
 * claim
 * framework

Going from evidence to conclusion, mostly with a verb. Different ways, in rough descending order of strength
 * Proves that (largely banned from the empirical sciences)
 * Shows that
 * Demonstrates that
 * Implies that
 * It follows that
 * Reveals
 * convey
 * Uncovers (rarely useful)
 * Indicates that (I like this one because it's strong but unobtrusive)
 * Suggests that
 * Supports the
 * Bolsters, buttressses
 * Illustrates
 * key evidence for
 * decisive evidence for
 * Fits
 * in accord with, concord with
 * Is evidence for
 * Weighs on the side of
 * Hint that
 * Is consistent with
 * Is not inconsistent with
 * Sheds light on
 * assesses

Negative impact of evidence on a theory, claim, conclusion, or criticism
 * Disconfirms the
 * Dismisses
 * Challenges
 * contradicts
 * "the outmoded theory of Jones [1], unable to accommodate stubborn experimental facts [2--25], has generally fallen out of favor—Cosma Shalizi
 * calls into question
 * Undermines
 * Counters
 * Detracts from
 * engenders skepticism of
 * should not be taken as support for
 * presents difficulties for
 * highlights shortcomings of
 * violates
 * reveals inadequacy of
 * does not sit easily with
 * Contrasts with
 * fails to confirm

Fluff and emphasis
 * Remarkably,
 * This striking result
 * Provides the opportunity to
 * For the first time,
 * Intriguing possibility,
 * Important
 * Novel role for