Indicate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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indicate

[ˈɪndɪkeɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

communication

To point out or show something, to make something known or apparent

Synonyms

demonstrate, reveal, show.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
indicate	Used to point out or show a piece of information, often in a formal or technical setting. The report indicates a significant rise in sales this quarter. Studies indicate that regular exercise improves health.
show	Used in a general sense to display or present something to others, applicable in both informal and formal settings. He showed me his new car. The results of the test show a positive trend.
reveal	Used to uncover or make known something that was previously hidden or unknown. The investigation will reveal the truth behind the incident. She decided to reveal her secret to her best friend.
demonstrate	Used to show something clearly and deliberately, often requiring physical proof or an example. The teacher used a diagram to demonstrate how the water cycle works. She can demonstrate her skills during the presentation.

Examples of usage

Please indicate your preferences on the form
The map will indicate the location of the nearest hospital

^{Context #2 | Verb}

sign

To serve as a sign or symbol of something

Synonyms

denote, imply, suggest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
indicate	Used to show or point out something clearly and usually objectively. Often used in scientific, medical, and technical contexts. The results indicate a strong correlation between the two variables The sign indicates the right direction
suggest	Used to present an idea or proposal in a gentle or indirect way, often used in everyday conversation and writing. I suggest we take a break and continue later The weather forecast suggests it might rain today
imply	Used to suggest something indirectly without explicitly stating it. It often leaves room for interpretation or assumption. Her tone implied that she was not satisfied with the outcome The article implied a close connection between the two incidents
denote	Used to signify or mean something specific, often in a formal, academic, or technical setting. The red color denotes danger In phonetics, a symbol denotes a particular sound

Examples of usage

Dark clouds often indicate an incoming storm
His silence indicated his disapproval

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'indicate'

The word 'indicate' originates from the Latin word 'indicare', which means to point out or show. It has been used in English since the 16th century. Over time, 'indicate' has become a commonly used word in various contexts, especially in communication and signs. The verb form of 'indicate' has evolved to represent the action of pointing out or showing something, while also implying or suggesting meanings through signs or symbols.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,164, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

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1161 greatest
1162 smaller
1163 ought
1164 indicate
1165 impossible
1166 characteristics
1167 create
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