indicate

/ˈɪndɪkeɪt/ neutral to formal

Say it: IN-dih-kayt

1. verb To point out or show something, or to be a sign of it.
The latest poll results indicate a close race.
2. verb To state or express something briefly and often indirectly.
She indicated her approval with a slight nod.
3. verb To suggest that a particular treatment or action is necessary or advisable.
The patient's symptoms indicate the need for immediate surgery.

📖 Seen in the wild

The rising temperatures indicate that summer is approaching quickly.
collected by @vocablast

✏️ indicate in a sentence

Please indicate your preferred meal choice on the form.
Dark clouds on the horizon usually indicate an approaching storm.
The report failed to indicate the source of its data.
He cleared his throat to indicate he was about to speak.
All the evidence indicates that he is guilty.
A blinking light on the dashboard indicates low oil pressure.
In his letter, he indicated a desire to return home.

🔁 Synonyms & antonyms

suggest show signify point to signal denote express imply

suggest · implies a less direct or certain connection.

show · is often more direct and can involve physical demonstration.

signify · often points to a deeper or more symbolic meaning.

point to · is more literal, often used for evidence leading to a conclusion.

Opposites: conceal, hide, obscure, contradict

🌱 Where it comes from

The word comes directly from the Latin 'indicare', meaning 'to point out' or 'make known'. This itself is formed from 'in-' (toward) and 'dicare' (to proclaim or make known), which is related to 'dicere' (to say). Its core meaning of pointing something out has remained remarkably stable for centuries.

🧩 How it's used

Common patterns:

studies indicatethe results indicateevidence indicatesclearly indicatefail to indicateindicate a preference

'Indicate' is a versatile word that works well in both formal and neutral contexts. In academic or professional writing, it is often preferred over 'show' as it can sound more objective and analytical. While similar to 'suggest', 'indicate' implies a stronger basis in evidence; 'suggest' leaves more room for interpretation or doubt.

Word family: indication, indicative, indicator

💬 Quick answers

What does 'indicate' mean in simple terms?

It means to show, point to, or be a sign of something. For example, a fever can indicate an illness.

What is the difference between 'indicate' and 'suggest'?

'Indicate' implies a stronger link based on evidence, while 'suggest' is more tentative. Smoke indicates fire, but a few clouds might only suggest the possibility of rain.

Is 'indicate' a formal word?

It is a neutral to formal word. It's common in professional and academic writing but is also perfectly fine in everyday conversation.

What is the noun for 'indicate'?

The most common noun is 'indication,' meaning a sign. Another is 'indicator,' which is a device or measurement that shows a particular state, like a car's fuel indicator.

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