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GrammarHarbour is a trusted resource for academic grammar, writing, and citation support.

Grammarharbour

GrammarHarbour is a trusted resource for academic grammar, writing, and citation support.

Alternative Ways to Say “This Quote Shows”: A Grammar Guide

Expressing how a quote supports an argument is a crucial skill in academic writing and analytical thinking. Over-reliance on the phrase “This quote shows” can make your writing repetitive and lack nuance.

Mastering alternative ways to introduce and analyze quotations will significantly enhance the clarity, sophistication, and persuasiveness of your arguments. This article provides a comprehensive guide, offering a range of grammatical structures, vocabulary, and examples to help you effectively integrate and analyze quotations in your writing.

This is beneficial for students, academics, and professionals who need to present information clearly and effectively. By learning these techniques, you’ll be able to craft stronger, more compelling arguments and demonstrate a deeper understanding of the material you’re analyzing.

Whether you are writing an essay, a research paper, or a professional report, the ability to seamlessly incorporate and analyze quotations is essential. This guide will equip you with the tools and knowledge to move beyond simple statements and explore the deeper implications of the text.

We will explore various sentence structures, verb choices, and contextual cues that can help you articulate the significance of a quotation with precision and impact. By diversifying your approach, you can keep your readers engaged and demonstrate a more sophisticated understanding of the material.

Table of Contents

Definition and Importance

The phrase “This quote shows” is a simple way to introduce an analysis of a quotation. However, its simplicity can lead to repetitive and unsophisticated writing.

A more effective approach involves using a variety of phrases and grammatical structures that more precisely convey the relationship between the quotation and your argument. This improves the flow of your writing and demonstrates a deeper understanding of the text.

Using varied language to introduce and analyze quotations is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it enhances the clarity of your writing by specifying the precise way the quotation supports your argument. Secondly, it adds sophistication to your prose, demonstrating a command of language. Thirdly, it makes your writing more engaging for the reader, preventing monotony and maintaining interest. Ultimately, mastering these techniques allows you to craft more persuasive and impactful arguments.

By moving beyond the basic phrase “This quote shows,” you can unlock a range of possibilities for expressing your ideas with greater precision and nuance. Consider the impact of replacing this simple phrase with more descriptive alternatives that highlight the specific way a quotation supports your argument.

This not only elevates the quality of your writing but also demonstrates a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Structural Breakdown

The basic structure we’re aiming to enhance is: [Quote] + “This quote shows” + [Your analysis]. We can improve this by replacing “This quote shows” with more sophisticated structures.

These alternative structures often involve:

  1. Strong Verbs: Using verbs that actively connect the quote to your argument (e.g., demonstrates, illustrates, highlights, emphasizes).
  2. Introductory Phrases: Employing phrases that provide context or direction to the analysis (e.g., “As evidenced by this quote,” “This quote serves to illustrate,” “This quotation underscores”).
  3. Complex Sentences: Combining the quotation and analysis into a single, flowing sentence.

Let’s consider how these elements work within a sentence. Instead of a simple statement, aim for a more integrated structure that seamlessly blends the quotation with your analysis.

This involves careful selection of verbs and phrases that accurately reflect the relationship between the quote and your argument. By mastering these structural elements, you can create more compelling and persuasive arguments.

For example, consider the difference between “The character is angry. ‘I hate you all!’ This quote shows he is angry” versus “The character’s anger is palpable, as evidenced by his outburst: ‘I hate you all!'” The second example is more concise, sophisticated, and impactful.

Types and Categories of Phrases

Here’s a breakdown of different types of phrases and sentence structures you can use to replace “This quote shows”:

1. Verbs of Demonstration

These verbs directly assert that the quote demonstrates something. Examples include: demonstrates, illustrates, proves, confirms, establishes, reveals, indicates, signifies.

2. Verbs of Emphasis

These verbs highlight a particular aspect of the quote. Examples include: emphasizes, highlights, underscores, stresses, accentuates, foregrounds.

3. Verbs of Explanation

These verbs explain the meaning or significance of the quote. Examples include: explains, clarifies, elucidates, interprets, defines, suggests.

4. Introductory Phrases

These phrases set the stage for your analysis. Examples include: As evidenced by this quote, This quote serves to illustrate, This quotation underscores, In this quote, As this quote suggests, From this quote, It is clear from this quote.

5. Integrated Sentences

These sentences seamlessly blend the quotation into your analysis, often using subordinating conjunctions or relative clauses. Examples include: which demonstrates, as evidenced by, because, since, while, although.

Understanding these categories allows you to choose the most appropriate phrase or structure for your specific purpose. Consider the nuance each option provides and select the one that best conveys the intended meaning.

By diversifying your approach, you can avoid repetition and create more engaging and persuasive arguments.

Examples

Here are extensive examples of how to use alternative phrases and sentence structures to replace “This quote shows.”

Using Strong Verbs

This table provides examples of sentences using strong verbs to connect a quote to an analysis. The goal is to demonstrate how a carefully chosen verb can enhance the impact and clarity of your writing.

Quote Alternative Sentence
“The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.” This quote illustrates a common pangram used to display fonts.
“To be or not to be, that is the question.” This line from Hamlet underscores the character’s internal conflict.
“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.” This statement from Animal Farm reveals the hypocrisy of the ruling pigs.
“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” This famous quote emphasizes the importance of courage in the face of adversity.
“I have a dream.” This phrase from Martin Luther King Jr. signifies hope and the pursuit of equality.
“Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” This quote from John F. Kennedy highlights the importance of civic duty.
“That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.” This declaration marks a pivotal moment in human history.
“Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.” This opening line of the Gettysburg Address establishes the historical context of the speech.
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” This opening line from A Tale of Two Cities introduces the themes of duality and contrast.
“The unexamined life is not worth living.” This philosophical statement asserts the importance of self-reflection.
“The course of true love never did run smooth.” This quote from A Midsummer Night’s Dream suggests the challenges inherent in romantic relationships.
“A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” This line implies that names are arbitrary and do not affect the essence of things.
“To thine own self be true.” This advice stresses the importance of authenticity and self-awareness.
“All that glitters is not gold.” This proverb warns against judging by appearances.
“Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” This statement demonstrates the dangers of unchecked authority.
“The pen is mightier than the sword.” This idiom emphasizes the power of written communication.
“Actions speak louder than words.” This saying prioritizes behavior over empty promises.
“Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” This adage promotes the benefits of a disciplined lifestyle.
“When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” This expression advocates cultural sensitivity and adaptation.
“Practice makes perfect.” This statement highlights the value of repetition and perseverance.
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” This proverb emphasizes the power of determination.
“Honesty is the best policy.” This saying values truthfulness and integrity.
“A penny saved is a penny earned.” This idiom promotes thrift and financial responsibility.
“Better late than never.” This expression suggests that it is preferable to do something eventually rather than not at all.
“Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.” This warning advises against premature optimism.
“Necessity is the mother of invention.” This proverb illustrates how challenges can spur creativity.
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Using Introductory Phrases

This table provides examples of sentences using introductory phrases to connect a quote to an analysis. Introductory phrases can provide context and guide the reader towards a deeper understanding of the quote’s significance.

Quote Alternative Sentence
“The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.” As evidenced by this quote, the sentence is a common pangram.
“To be or not to be, that is the question.” This quote serves to illustrate the character’s contemplation of life and death.
“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.” This quotation underscores the theme of inequality in the novel.
“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” In this quote, the speaker encourages resilience and courage.
“I have a dream.” As this quote suggests, the speaker envisions a future of equality and justice.
“Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” From this quote, it is clear that the speaker emphasizes civic responsibility.
“That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.” It is clear from this quote that the speaker recognizes the significance of the event.
“Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.” As this quote demonstrates, the speech invokes the founding principles of the nation.
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” As evidenced by this opening line, the novel explores contrasting realities.
“The unexamined life is not worth living.” This quote serves to highlight the importance of introspection and self-awareness.
“The course of true love never did run smooth.” This quotation underscores the challenges and obstacles in romantic relationships.
“A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” In this quote, the speaker suggests that names are arbitrary.
“To thine own self be true.” As this quote suggests, authenticity and self-awareness are essential.
“All that glitters is not gold.” From this quote, it is evident that appearances can be deceiving.
“Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” It is clear from this quote that unchecked authority is dangerous.
“The pen is mightier than the sword.” As this quote demonstrates, written communication is powerful.
“Actions speak louder than words.” As evidenced by this saying, behavior is more important than promises.
“Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” This quote serves to promote the benefits of a disciplined lifestyle.
“When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” This quotation underscores the importance of cultural sensitivity.
“Practice makes perfect.” In this quote, the value of repetition and perseverance is highlighted.
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” As this quote suggests, determination can overcome obstacles.
“Honesty is the best policy.” From this quote, it is clear that truthfulness is valued.
“A penny saved is a penny earned.” It is clear from this quote that thriftiness is beneficial.
“Better late than never.” As this quote demonstrates, it is better to do something late than not at all.
“Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.” As evidenced by this saying, premature optimism can be dangerous.
“Necessity is the mother of invention.” This quote serves to illustrate how challenges lead to creativity.

Using Complex Sentences

This table provides examples of complex sentences that integrate the quotation and analysis. This approach creates a more seamless and sophisticated flow in your writing.

Quote Alternative Sentence
“The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.” The sentence, “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog,” demonstrates a common pangram used for displaying fonts.
“To be or not to be, that is the question.” Hamlet’s famous line, “To be or not to be, that is the question,” underscores his internal conflict and contemplation of mortality.
“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.” The statement, “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others,” reveals the hypocrisy and corruption within the animal society in Orwell’s Animal Farm.
“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Roosevelt’s assertion that “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself” emphasizes the importance of courage and resilience in times of crisis.
“I have a dream.” Martin Luther King Jr.’s powerful declaration, “I have a dream,” signifies his vision of a future characterized by equality and justice.
“Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” Kennedy’s iconic statement, “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country,” highlights the importance of civic engagement and personal responsibility.
“That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.” Armstrong’s words, “That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind,” mark a pivotal moment in human history and the exploration of space.
“Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.” Lincoln’s opening phrase, “Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal,” establishes the historical context and foundational principles of the Gettysburg Address.
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” Dickens’ opening line, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,” introduces the themes of duality and societal upheaval that characterize A Tale of Two Cities.
“The unexamined life is not worth living.” Socrates’ assertion that “The unexamined life is not worth living” asserts the importance of self-reflection and intellectual inquiry.
“The course of true love never did run smooth.” Shakespeare’s observation that “The course of true love never did run smooth” suggests the inherent challenges and obstacles in romantic relationships.
“A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Juliet’s line, “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet,” implies that names are arbitrary and do not affect the intrinsic qualities of things.
“To thine own self be true.” Polonius’ advice, “To thine own self be true,” stresses the importance of authenticity, self-awareness, and integrity.
“All that glitters is not gold.” The proverb, “All that glitters is not gold,” warns against judging by appearances and encourages discernment.
“Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Acton’s statement, “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely,” demonstrates the potential dangers of unchecked authority.
“The pen is mightier than the sword.” The idiom, “The pen is mightier than the sword,” emphasizes the power of written communication and ideas over physical force.
“Actions speak louder than words.” The saying, “Actions speak louder than words,” prioritizes behavior and deeds over empty promises or statements.
“Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” Franklin’s adage, “Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise,” promotes the benefits of a disciplined and industrious lifestyle.
“When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” The expression, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do,” advocates cultural sensitivity and adaptation when visiting or living in a foreign place.
“Practice makes perfect.” The statement, “Practice makes perfect,” highlights the importance of repetition and perseverance in achieving mastery or skill.
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” The proverb, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” emphasizes the power of determination and resourcefulness in overcoming obstacles.
“Honesty is the best policy.” The saying, “Honesty is the best policy,” values truthfulness, integrity, and ethical behavior in all aspects of life.
“A penny saved is a penny earned.” The idiom, “A penny saved is a penny earned,” promotes thrift, financial responsibility, and the value of saving money.
“Better late than never.” The expression, “Better late than never,” suggests that it is preferable to do something eventually rather than not at all, despite the delay.
“Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.” The warning, “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch,” advises against premature optimism and relying on uncertain outcomes.
“Necessity is the mother of invention.” The proverb, “Necessity is the mother of invention,” illustrates how challenges and needs can spur creativity and innovation.
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Usage Rules

When using these alternative phrases, keep the following rules in mind:

  1. Context is Key: Choose the phrase that best fits the context of your argument and the specific point you are trying to make.
  2. Verb Tense: Ensure the verb tense is consistent and appropriate for the meaning you want to convey.
  3. Clarity: Prioritize clarity and avoid overly complex phrasing that could confuse the reader.
  4. Variety: Use a variety of phrases throughout your writing to avoid repetition and maintain reader engagement.

Furthermore, pay attention to the flow of your writing. The goal is to seamlessly integrate the quotation and analysis into your argument.

Avoid abrupt transitions and ensure that the connection between the quote and your analysis is clear and logical. By following these rules, you can enhance the impact and persuasiveness of your writing.

Remember to proofread carefully to ensure that your sentences are grammatically correct and that your chosen phrases accurately reflect your intended meaning. A well-crafted sentence can significantly enhance the clarity and impact of your argument.

Common Mistakes

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using alternative phrases to introduce and analyze quotations:

Incorrect Correct Explanation
“The quote shows the character is sad. ‘I am so sad.'” “The character’s lament, ‘I am so sad,’ illustrates her profound despair.” Avoid overly simplistic phrasing. Use stronger verbs and more descriptive language.
“This quote emphasizes about the importance of family. ‘Family is everything.'” “This quote emphasizes the importance of family: ‘Family is everything.'” Avoid unnecessary prepositions and ensure proper punctuation.
“As this quote showing, the theme is love. ‘Love conquers all.'” “As this quote demonstrates, the theme is love: ‘Love conquers all.'” Use the correct verb form and choose a more appropriate verb.
“From this quote, it highlights the issue of poverty. ‘We have nothing.'” “From this quote, it is clear that the characters are facing poverty: ‘We have nothing.'” Ensure subject-verb agreement and clarity in the sentence structure.
“It is clear from this quote, it means that he is angry. ‘I hate you!'” “It is clear from this quote that he is expressing anger: ‘I hate you!'” Avoid redundancy and ensure the sentence is grammatically correct.
“This quote serves to illustrates the importance of education. ‘Knowledge is power.'” “This quote serves to illustrate the importance of education: ‘Knowledge is power.'” Ensure correct verb conjugation and punctuation.
“As this quote suggesting, it’s about hope. ‘Tomorrow is a new day.'” “As this quote suggests, the theme is hope: ‘Tomorrow is a new day.'” Avoid redundancy and ensure clarity in the sentence structure.
“In this quote, it underscores the theme of betrayal. ‘I can’t believe you did this.'” “In this quote, the speaker underscores the theme of betrayal: ‘I can’t believe you did this.'” Avoid unnecessary pronouns and ensure clarity in the sentence structure.

By being aware of these common mistakes, you can avoid them in your own writing and ensure that your analysis is clear, concise, and effective. Always proofread your work carefully to catch any errors.

Practice Exercises

Improve your skills with these practice exercises. Rewrite the following sentences using alternative phrases to “This quote shows.”

Question Answer
1. “The character is brave. ‘I will face my fears.’ This quote shows he is brave.” 1. “The character’s declaration, ‘I will face my fears,’ illustrates his unwavering bravery.”
2. “The author is critical of society. ‘Society is flawed.’ This quote shows the author’s criticism.” 2. “The author’s assertion that ‘Society is flawed’ underscores his critical perspective on societal issues.”
3. “The poem is about love. ‘Love is a beautiful thing.’ This quote shows the poem’s theme.” 3. “The line, ‘Love is a beautiful thing,’ signifies the poem’s central theme of love.”
4. “The evidence supports the claim. ‘We have proof.’ This quote shows the evidence.” 4. “As evidenced by the statement, ‘We have proof,’ the claim is supported by substantial evidence.”
5. “The speaker is determined. ‘I will succeed.’ This quote shows his determination.” 5. “The speaker’s resolute statement, ‘I will succeed,’ highlights his unwavering determination.”
6. “The painting is vibrant. ‘The colors are alive.’ This quote shows the painting’s vibrancy.” 6. “The description, ‘The colors are alive,’ emphasizes the painting’s vibrant and dynamic nature.”
7. “The argument is logical. ‘Therefore, it is true.’ This quote shows the argument’s logic.” 7. “The conclusion, ‘Therefore, it is true,’ demonstrates the logical progression of the argument.”
8. “The character is conflicted. ‘I don’t know what to do.’ This quote shows her conflict.” 8. “The character’s lament, ‘I don’t know what to do,’ reveals her internal conflict and uncertainty.”
9. “The scene is chaotic. ‘Everything is falling apart.’ This quote shows the chaos.” 9. “The description, ‘Everything is falling apart,’ underscores the chaotic nature of the scene.”
10. “The message is clear. ‘We must unite.’ This quote shows the message.” 10. “The imperative, ‘We must unite,’ signifies the clear and urgent message of the text.”
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More Practice Exercises:

Question Answer
11. “The character is hopeful. ‘Tomorrow will be better.’ This quote shows her hope.” 11. “The character’s belief that ‘Tomorrow will be better’ illustrates her resilient sense of hope.”
12. “The author is questioning the status quo. ‘Why do we accept this?’ This quote shows the author’s questioning.” 12. “The author’s query, ‘Why do we accept this?’ highlights his critical questioning of the status quo.”
13. “The song is about freedom. ‘We will be free.’ This quote shows the song’s theme.” 13. “The declaration, ‘We will be free,’ signifies the song’s overarching theme of freedom.”
14. “The research confirms the hypothesis. ‘The results support the claim.’ This quote shows the research’s confirmation.” 14. “As evidenced by the statement, ‘The results support the claim,’ the research confirms the initial hypothesis.”
15. “The leader is inspiring. ‘We can achieve greatness.’ This quote shows his inspiration.” 15. “The leader’s inspiring message, ‘We can achieve greatness,’ highlights his ability to motivate and uplift others.”
16. “The design is innovative. ‘It’s unlike anything else.’ This quote shows the design’s innovation.” 16. “The description, ‘It’s unlike anything else,’ emphasizes the innovative and unique nature of the design.”
17. “The decision is justified. ‘It was the only option.’ This quote shows the decision’s justification.” 17. “The assertion, ‘It was the only option,’ demonstrates the justification behind the controversial decision.”
18. “The character is resilient. ‘I will keep going.’ This quote shows her resilience.” 18. “The character’s firm statement, ‘I will keep going,’ reveals her remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.”
19. “The atmosphere is tense. ‘You could cut the air with a knife.’ This quote shows the tension.” 19. “The description, ‘You could cut the air with a knife,’ underscores the palpable tension in the atmosphere.”
20. “The proposal is compelling. ‘This will solve the problem.’ This quote shows the proposal’s appeal.” 20. “The claim, ‘This will solve the problem,’ signifies the compelling nature and potential impact of the proposal.”

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, consider these more complex aspects:

  • Subtlety and Nuance: Explore how different phrases can subtly alter the meaning of your analysis.
  • Rhetorical Effect: Analyze the rhetorical effect of different phrasing choices on your audience.
  • Contextual Awareness: Develop a deeper understanding of how context influences the most appropriate phrasing.

Mastering these advanced topics will allow you to craft even more sophisticated and persuasive arguments. Pay attention to the nuances of language and how they impact your audience.

By continuously refining your skills, you can become a more effective communicator.

Consider exploring academic journals and scholarly articles to observe how experienced writers and researchers effectively integrate quotations into their work. Pay attention to the specific phrases and structures they use and how they adapt their language to suit the context and purpose of their writing.

This will provide valuable insights into the art of crafting sophisticated and persuasive arguments.

FAQ

  1. Why is it important to avoid using “This quote shows” repeatedly?

    Repetitive use of “This quote shows” makes your writing sound monotonous and unsophisticated. It fails to convey the specific way the quote supports your argument, weakening your analysis and making it less engaging for the reader.

  2. What are some alternatives to “This quote shows” that I can use?

    Alternatives include using strong verbs (e.g., demonstrates, illustrates, emphasizes), introductory phrases (e.g., “As evidenced by this quote,” “This quote serves to illustrate”), and complex sentences that integrate the quotation and analysis.

  3. How do I choose the best alternative phrase for a particular quote?

    Consider the context of your argument and the specific point you are trying to make. Choose a phrase that accurately reflects the relationship between the quote and your analysis. Think about the nuance each option provides and select the one that best conveys the intended meaning.

  4. What are some common mistakes to avoid when using alternative phrases?

    Common mistakes include using overly simplistic phrasing, unnecessary prepositions, incorrect verb forms, and redundancy. Always proofread your work carefully to catch any errors.

  5. How can I improve my skills in using alternative phrases to analyze quotations?

    Practice using different phrases in your writing. Pay attention to the context and choose the phrase that best fits your argument. Read widely and observe how experienced writers effectively integrate quotations into their work.

  6. Can I use multiple alternative phrases in one essay?

    Yes, absolutely! In fact, varying your phrasing is highly recommended to avoid repetition and demonstrate a wider command of language. Just ensure that each phrase is appropriate for the

    context and serves your analytical purpose.

Conclusion

Mastering alternative ways to say “This quote shows” is an essential skill for effective communication and persuasive writing. By diversifying your vocabulary and sentence structures, you can enhance the clarity, sophistication, and impact of your arguments.

This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of various techniques, examples, and exercises to help you elevate your writing and analytical skills. Remember to practice consistently and pay attention to the nuances of language to craft compelling and persuasive arguments.

By moving beyond simple phrasing and embracing a more nuanced approach, you can demonstrate a deeper understanding of the material you’re analyzing and engage your readers more effectively. Whether you are writing an academic essay, a professional report, or any other form of analytical writing, the ability to seamlessly integrate and analyze quotations is a valuable asset.

Continue to explore and refine your skills, and you will undoubtedly see a significant improvement in the quality and impact of your writing.

Alternative Ways to Say “This Quote Shows”: A Grammar Guide

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