Diese Seite in deiner Sprache
English فارسی العربية Español Français 日本語 한국어 Português 中文 हिन्दी
B1 verb #2,500 am häufigsten 14 Min. Lesezeit

indiquer

At the A1 beginner level, the verb 'indiquer' is primarily encountered in the context of basic navigation and simple instructions. As a learner just starting to explore the French language, your main goal is survival communication: asking for directions, understanding simple signs, and filling out basic forms. 'Indiquer' is crucial for these tasks. You will frequently hear and use the phrase 'indiquer le chemin' (to point out the way). For example, if you are lost in Paris, a highly useful phrase to memorize is 'Pouvez-vous m'indiquer la gare ?' (Can you point out the train station to me?). At this stage, the focus is on recognizing the verb in its infinitive form or in polite requests using 'pouvez-vous' or 'pourriez-vous'. You do not need to master complex conjugations yet; understanding the core meaning of 'pointing something out' is sufficient. Additionally, you will encounter 'indiquer' on basic administrative documents, such as hotel registration forms, where it means 'to fill in' or 'to write down'. The instructions might say 'Indiquez votre nom' (Indicate/write your name). The grammatical structure is usually simple: 'indiquer' followed directly by a noun (the direct object). While you might briefly encounter indirect object pronouns (like the 'm'' in 'm'indiquer'), the primary focus is on comprehension rather than perfect production. You should also associate 'indiquer' with physical gestures, as native speakers will often point while using this verb. By mastering these basic, concrete uses of 'indiquer', A1 learners build a solid foundation for navigating everyday situations in a French-speaking environment, ensuring they can find their way and provide essential personal information when required.
As you progress to the A2 elementary level, your interaction with the verb 'indiquer' expands beyond simple physical directions to include more varied everyday contexts, such as scheduling, basic medical conversations, and slightly more complex instructions. At this stage, you are expected to start using 'indiquer' in different tenses, particularly the present, passé composé, and futur proche. You might say, 'Il m'a indiqué l'heure du rendez-vous' (He indicated the time of the appointment to me) or 'Je vais vous indiquer la procédure' (I am going to indicate the procedure to you). The concept of indirect object pronouns becomes more important here. You need to practice structures like 'indiquer à quelqu'un' (to indicate to someone) and begin replacing 'à quelqu'un' with pronouns like 'lui' or 'leur'. For instance, 'Je lui indique la sortie' (I point out the exit to him/her). Furthermore, 'indiquer' starts to appear in basic health contexts. If you visit a pharmacy or a doctor, you might be asked to 'indiquer où vous avez mal' (indicate where you have pain). You will also see it more frequently in written instructions, such as recipes or manuals, where it directs the user on what to do next. The transition from A1 to A2 involves moving from purely survival phrases to constructing your own simple sentences using 'indiquer' to share information or ask for clarification in a broader range of daily activities. You are building the grammatical scaffolding that allows you to use the verb actively rather than just recognizing it passively.
At the B1 intermediate level, 'indiquer' becomes a powerful tool for expressing facts, reporting information, and discussing more abstract concepts. This is the level where the verb truly shines as a versatile communicative device. You are no longer just asking for directions; you are analyzing situations and reporting what you see or read. A major grammatical milestone at B1 is mastering the structure 'indiquer que' (to indicate that) followed by a subordinate clause. You will use this to report data, survey results, or general observations. For example, 'Les statistiques indiquent que le chômage baisse' (Statistics indicate that unemployment is decreasing). It is crucial at this stage to solidify the rule that 'indiquer que' takes the indicative mood, not the subjunctive, as it expresses a certainty or a fact. You will also encounter 'indiquer' frequently in news articles, opinion pieces, and formal emails. It serves as a more sophisticated alternative to 'dire' (to say) or 'montrer' (to show). In professional or academic contexts, you might write, 'Ce document indique les étapes à suivre' (This document indicates the steps to follow). Additionally, you should become comfortable with the passive voice or impersonal structures, such as 'Il est indiqué de...' (It is advisable to...), which is very common in formal advice or medical recommendations. By the end of B1, 'indiquer' should be a natural part of your vocabulary, allowing you to speak and write with greater objectivity, clarity, and grammatical precision across a wide variety of topics.
Reaching the B2 upper-intermediate level means you are refining your use of 'indiquer' to achieve a high degree of nuance and sophistication. At this stage, you are expected to understand and produce complex arguments, detailed reports, and formal correspondence, all of which heavily rely on verbs like 'indiquer'. You will use it to synthesize information from multiple sources, drawing conclusions and highlighting trends. For example, 'Plusieurs études récentes indiquent une corrélation directe entre le stress et cette maladie' (Several recent studies indicate a direct correlation between stress and this illness). Your grasp of syntax must be impeccable, seamlessly integrating indirect object pronouns, relative clauses, and appropriate tenses. You should also be highly aware of register, choosing 'indiquer' over simpler verbs to elevate the tone of your French in professional or academic settings. Furthermore, B2 learners should master the adjectival use of the past participle, 'indiqué'. Understanding phrases like 'C'est la solution toute indiquée' (It's the perfectly suited solution) or 'Ce traitement est contre-indiqué' (This treatment is contraindicated) demonstrates a deep, idiomatic understanding of the language. You will also encounter reflexive usages, though less frequently, such as 'Une révision de la loi s'indique' (A revision of the law is advisable/necessary). At the B2 level, 'indiquer' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a structural pillar that supports your ability to articulate complex thoughts, analyze data, and communicate with authority and precision in a French-speaking professional or academic environment.
At the C1 advanced level, your command of 'indiquer' is expected to be near-native, characterized by an effortless ability to navigate its most subtle nuances and idiomatic expressions. You are dealing with complex, abstract texts—literature, legal documents, advanced scientific papers—where 'indiquer' is used to convey precise, sometimes implicit, information. You understand that 'indiquer' can sometimes border on 'suggérer' (to suggest) or 'laisser entendre' (to imply) depending on the context. For instance, in literary analysis, you might write, 'Le choix des mots de l'auteur indique une profonde mélancolie' (The author's choice of words indicates a profound melancholy). You are completely comfortable with the impersonal and reflexive forms, using them to depersonalize arguments and present objective necessities: 'Il s'indique de procéder avec la plus grande prudence' (It is advisable to proceed with the utmost caution). At C1, you also possess a comprehensive understanding of the verb's synonyms—such as signaler, désigner, préciser, stipuler, and dénoter—and you can select the exact right word to fit the micro-context of your sentence. You recognize when 'indiquer' is too weak and a stronger verb is needed, or when it is perfectly suited for a diplomatic, objective statement. Your use of 'indiquer' at this level demonstrates a mastery of French stylistics, allowing you to manipulate the language to achieve specific rhetorical effects, whether you are drafting a formal legal contract, writing a persuasive essay, or engaging in a high-level intellectual debate.
At the C2 mastery level, the verb 'indiquer' is fully integrated into your linguistic repertoire, used with the intuitive grace and precision of a highly educated native speaker. You are not merely applying rules; you are playing with the language. At this pinnacle of proficiency, you encounter and utilize 'indiquer' in its most literary, archaic, or highly specialized forms. You appreciate the etymological weight of the word and how it functions in complex philosophical or legal discourse. For example, in a legal context, you understand the precise difference between what a clause 'indique' versus what it 'stipule' or 'ordonne'. You effortlessly employ highly idiomatic structures, such as 'tout indique que' (everything points to the fact that) to build compelling, sophisticated arguments. Your writing and speech exhibit a flawless command of register, seamlessly transitioning from the concrete 'indiquer le chemin' in a casual anecdote to the highly abstract 'ces paradigmes indiquent une mutation sociétale' in an academic dissertation. You are also attuned to the subtle rhythmic and phonetic qualities of the word within a sentence, using it to balance clauses and enhance the flow of your prose. At the C2 level, 'indiquer' is a testament to your absolute fluency; it is a tool you wield unconsciously to articulate the most complex, nuanced, and profound ideas, demonstrating a mastery of French that transcends mere communication and enters the realm of eloquence and artistry.
Jetzt üben Beispiele Notizen & Tipps

indiquer in 30 Sekunden

  • To point out a physical direction or location (e.g., indicating the way to the station).
  • To provide specific information, such as filling out a form or stating a fact.
  • To show a sign or symptom that leads to a conclusion (e.g., a fever indicates illness).
  • To recommend or advise a course of action, especially in medical or formal contexts.
The French verb 'indiquer' is a highly versatile and frequently used word that translates primarily to 'to indicate' or 'to point out' in English. Understanding its full scope requires looking at both its physical and abstract applications. At its core, 'indiquer' is about directing attention to something, providing information, or making a fact known to someone else. When you are walking down the street in Paris and you are lost, you might ask a local to 'indiquer' the way to the nearest metro station. This physical act of pointing out a direction or a location is one of the most fundamental uses of the word.
Physical Direction
Pointing out a location, a path, or a specific object in space.

Pouvez-vous m'indiquer la gare s'il vous plaît ?

However, its utility extends far beyond mere physical directions. In a more abstract sense, 'indiquer' is used to express that a certain sign, symptom, or piece of data points to a specific conclusion. For instance, a high fever might 'indiquer' an infection, or a rising stock market might 'indiquer' economic recovery. The word is deeply embedded in both everyday conversation and formal discourse. Let us explore the various dimensions of this word through practical examples and structured breakdowns. Furthermore, the etymology of 'indiquer' traces back to the Latin 'indicare', which means to point out, show, or make known. This historical root is still very much alive in modern French usage. The prefix 'in-' and the root 'dicare' (to proclaim) combine to form a word that is inherently communicative. Whenever you use 'indiquer', you are essentially acting as a conduit of information, transferring knowledge from your own awareness to someone else's.

Ces symptômes peuvent indiquer une grippe sévère.

Abstract Indication
Showing a sign, symptom, or piece of evidence that leads to a conclusion.
In academic and professional settings, 'indiquer' is often preferred over simpler verbs like 'dire' (to say) or 'montrer' (to show) because it carries a connotation of precision and objectivity. When a report 'indique' a trend, it sounds more authoritative than if it merely 'montre' it.

Le rapport indique une hausse des ventes ce trimestre.

It is also worth noting that 'indiquer' can be used reflexively, though this is less common. 'S'indiquer' can mean to be indicated or to be advisable in a given situation. For example, a certain course of action might 's'indiquer' when faced with a specific problem.

Une pause s'indique après tant d'heures de travail acharné.

Reflexive Usage
To be advisable, necessary, or naturally required by the circumstances.
To fully master 'indiquer', one must practice recognizing these subtle shifts in meaning based on context. Whether you are reading a medical journal, asking for directions, or analyzing a piece of literature, 'indiquer' will frequently appear, serving as a vital signpost guiding your comprehension.

La boussole indique toujours le nord magnétique.

By paying close attention to the nouns that typically accompany this verb—such as 'le chemin' (the way), 'la direction' (the direction), 'une tendance' (a trend), or 'un symptôme' (a symptom)—you can build a robust mental map of its semantic range. This comprehensive understanding will not only improve your reading and listening comprehension but also elevate the sophistication of your spoken and written French. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the mechanics of using 'indiquer' in various grammatical structures, explore common pitfalls, and examine its synonyms and related terms to enrich your vocabulary even further. The journey to mastering 'indiquer' is a microcosm of mastering the French language itself: it requires attention to detail, an appreciation for context, and a willingness to explore beyond the literal translations.
Using the verb 'indiquer' correctly involves understanding its grammatical structure, particularly its interaction with direct and indirect objects. As a regular -er verb, its conjugation follows the standard pattern, making it relatively straightforward to form in various tenses. However, the complexity arises in how it connects to the rest of the sentence. The most common structure is 'indiquer quelque chose à quelqu'un' (to indicate something to someone). Here, 'quelque chose' is the direct object, and 'à quelqu'un' is the indirect object.
Direct Object Structure
Using indiquer with a noun directly following it, without a preposition.

Il faut indiquer votre nom sur le formulaire.

When you want to specify the person receiving the information, you must use an indirect object pronoun. In French, these pronouns (me, te, lui, nous, vous, leur) precede the conjugated verb. This is a crucial rule that learners often forget, leading to awkward phrasing. For example, instead of saying 'indiquer le chemin à moi', you must say 'm'indiquer le chemin'. This structure is pervasive in everyday requests and instructions.

Le policier lui a indiqué la mauvaise direction.

Indirect Object Pronouns
Placing the pronoun before the verb to show who is receiving the indication.
Another critical usage of 'indiquer' is in complex sentences where it introduces a subordinate clause. The structure 'indiquer que' (to indicate that) is widely used in reporting facts, sharing data, or expressing conclusions. A common question among learners is whether 'indiquer que' requires the subjunctive mood. The answer is generally no. Because 'indiquer' expresses a fact, a certainty, or a strong probability, it is followed by the indicative mood.

Les thermomètres indiquent qu'il fait très froid dehors.

However, if 'indiquer' is used in a negative sentence (il n'indique pas que...) or a question (indique-t-il que...?), and it introduces an element of doubt, the subjunctive might be used, though the indicative remains common in modern spoken French. Beyond these standard structures, 'indiquer' is frequently used in the passive voice, especially in formal or technical writing. 'Il est indiqué de...' means 'it is advisable to...' or 'it is recommended to...'. This impersonal structure is very useful for giving polite instructions or medical advice.

Il est indiqué de boire beaucoup d'eau pendant la canicule.

Impersonal Passive
Using 'il est indiqué de' to give formal advice or recommendations.
Furthermore, the past participle 'indiqué' functions as an adjective. When something is 'tout indiqué', it means it is perfectly suited or exactly what is needed for a particular situation. This idiomatic usage adds a layer of sophistication to your French.

Ce restaurant est tout indiqué pour un dîner romantique.

Mastering these various syntactic structures—direct objects, indirect pronouns, subordinate clauses, passive voice, and adjectival use—will allow you to deploy 'indiquer' with confidence and precision in any context. It is a verb that bridges the gap between simple communication and nuanced expression, making it a cornerstone of intermediate and advanced French proficiency.
The verb 'indiquer' is ubiquitous in the French-speaking world, appearing in a wide array of contexts ranging from casual street encounters to highly formal legal documents. Understanding where and how you are likely to encounter this word will help you anticipate its meaning and respond appropriately. One of the most common everyday contexts is navigation and travel. Whether you are asking a pedestrian for directions, listening to a GPS navigation system, or reading a map, 'indiquer' is the verb of choice.
Travel and Navigation
Used extensively when asking for or giving directions in a city or on the road.

Le panneau indique la sortie pour l'aéroport à deux kilomètres.

In the realm of public transportation, announcements frequently use 'indiquer' to inform passengers about train platforms, delays, or safety procedures. For instance, a voice over the loudspeaker at a train station might say, 'Les écrans vous indiqueront la voie de votre train.' Moving away from physical travel, 'indiquer' is heavily utilized in the medical field. Doctors, nurses, and medical literature use it to discuss symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments. A specific symptom 'indique' a potential illness, and a specific medication is 'indiqué' (recommended) for a particular condition.

Ce médicament est indiqué pour le traitement des migraines.

Medical Context
Used to describe what symptoms point to, or what treatments are recommended.
In professional and academic environments, 'indiquer' is a staple of reports, presentations, and analyses. When presenting data, a speaker will often say that the numbers 'indiquent' a certain trend. It is a formal, objective way of drawing conclusions from evidence without injecting personal opinion.

Les résultats de l'enquête indiquent une insatisfaction croissante des clients.

Furthermore, 'indiquer' is commonly found in administrative forms and official documents. When you are asked to fill out a form, the instructions will often tell you to 'indiquer votre nom, prénom et adresse'. Here, it functions as a formal synonym for 'écrire' or 'mentionner'.

Veuillez indiquer votre numéro de téléphone dans la case ci-dessous.

Administrative Forms
Used as an instruction to fill in specific personal details or information.
Finally, in literature and journalism, 'indiquer' is used to describe gestures, expressions, or subtle signs that reveal a character's emotions or a situation's underlying truth. An author might write that a character's trembling hands 'indiquaient' their fear.

Son silence indiquait clairement son désaccord avec la décision.

By recognizing these diverse contexts—from the streets of Paris to the pages of a medical journal—you can appreciate the profound versatility of 'indiquer'. It is a verb that adapts to its surroundings, providing clear, precise communication whether you are lost in a new city, analyzing complex data, or simply filling out a form. This contextual awareness is key to achieving fluency and sounding natural in French.
While 'indiquer' is a regular -er verb and relatively easy to conjugate, learners frequently make mistakes regarding its syntax, prepositional usage, and nuanced differences from similar verbs. One of the most prevalent errors involves the omission or incorrect use of indirect object pronouns. Because the English translation 'to indicate' often takes a direct object (e.g., 'He indicated the door'), English speakers tend to translate this directly into French without accounting for the recipient of the indication.
Pronoun Omission
Forgetting to use an indirect object pronoun when indicating something to someone.

Incorrect: Il a indiqué le chemin à moi. Correct: Il m'a indiqué le chemin.

Another common pitfall is confusing 'indiquer' with 'montrer' (to show). While they can sometimes be used interchangeably, they have distinct nuances. 'Montrer' is generally more visual and direct; it involves physically displaying something so it can be seen. 'Indiquer', on the other hand, is more about providing information, pointing out a direction, or signifying a fact. You 'montrez' a picture to a friend, but you 'indiquez' the way to the museum.

Je vais te montrer ma nouvelle voiture, et je t'indiquerai comment fonctionne le GPS.

Indiquer vs. Montrer
Using 'montrer' for visual display and 'indiquer' for informational direction.
Learners also frequently struggle with the mood that follows 'indiquer que'. Because 'que' often triggers the subjunctive in French (e.g., after verbs of emotion, doubt, or necessity), many students mistakenly apply the subjunctive after 'indiquer que'. However, 'indiquer' expresses a statement of fact, a certainty, or a strong probability. Therefore, it must be followed by the indicative mood.

Incorrect: L'étude indique qu'il soit malade. Correct: L'étude indique qu'il est malade.

A more subtle mistake occurs in formal writing when learners overuse 'dire' (to say) instead of elevating their vocabulary with 'indiquer'. In a professional report or an academic essay, writing 'Le graphique dit que...' (The graph says that...) sounds colloquial and slightly childish. The appropriate, professional phrasing is 'Le graphique indique que...' (The graph indicates that...).

Les chiffres de vente indiquent une forte croissance annuelle.

Register Errors
Using casual verbs like 'dire' instead of 'indiquer' in formal or academic contexts.
Finally, there is the misuse of the past participle 'indiqué' as an adjective. Learners sometimes use it to mean 'indicated' in a literal sense, missing its idiomatic meaning of 'advisable' or 'recommended'. If a doctor says 'Le repos est indiqué', they mean rest is recommended, not just that it was pointed out.

Dans votre situation, la prudence est tout indiquée.

By being aware of these common mistakes—pronoun placement, the distinction from 'montrer', the use of the indicative mood, register appropriateness, and idiomatic adjectival use—you can refine your French and use 'indiquer' with the accuracy and elegance of a native speaker.
To truly enrich your French vocabulary, it is essential to understand not just 'indiquer', but also its synonyms and related terms. The French language offers a rich tapestry of verbs that share similar meanings but carry subtle nuances that dictate their appropriate usage. By mastering these distinctions, you can express yourself with greater precision and sophistication. The most common synonym for 'indiquer' is 'montrer' (to show). While they overlap, 'montrer' is inherently more visual. It implies bringing something into someone's field of vision. You 'montrez' your passport to the customs officer, but you 'indiquez' your address on the customs form.
Montrer (To show)
Focuses on visual display or physical demonstration.

Il m'a montré ses photos de vacances après m'avoir indiqué où il était allé.

Another closely related verb is 'signaler' (to point out, to flag, to report). 'Signaler' carries a sense of drawing attention to something specific, often because it is noteworthy, unusual, or potentially problematic. You might 'indiquer' a restaurant on a map, but you would 'signaler' a dangerous pothole on the road. It implies an alert or a notification.

Le témoin a signalé un comportement suspect à la police, ce qui a indiqué une piste.

Signaler (To flag/report)
Used to draw attention to something important, unusual, or dangerous.
'Désigner' (to designate, to point to) is another valuable synonym. It is often used when selecting or pointing out a specific person or object from a group. If a teacher points to a student to answer a question, they 'désignent' the student. It has a stronger sense of selection or specific identification than 'indiquer'.

Le directeur a désigné le nouveau chef de projet, comme l'avait indiqué la rumeur.

When 'indiquer' is used in the sense of providing details, 'préciser' (to specify, to clarify) is an excellent alternative. 'Préciser' implies adding exactness or detail to something that might already be known in general terms. You might 'indiquer' that you are arriving tomorrow, but you 'précisez' that you will arrive exactly at 3:00 PM.

Veuillez indiquer votre disponibilité et préciser les heures exactes.

Préciser (To specify)
Used to add detail, exactness, or clarity to a statement.
Finally, in formal or academic contexts where 'indiquer' means to suggest or imply, verbs like 'suggérer' (to suggest) or 'révéler' (to reveal) can be used to add stylistic variety. A scientific study might 'indiquer' a correlation, 'suggérer' a new theory, or 'révéler' a hidden mechanism. By incorporating 'montrer', 'signaler', 'désigner', 'préciser', and others into your active vocabulary, you avoid repetition and ensure that your French is not only correct but also rich, nuanced, and highly expressive. Understanding these subtle differences is a hallmark of advanced language proficiency.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

""

Informell

""

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Wichtige Grammatik

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Pouvez-vous m'indiquer la gare ?

Can you point out the train station to me?

Uses the indirect object pronoun 'm'' (to me) before the infinitive verb.

2

Il faut indiquer votre nom ici.

You must indicate/write your name here.

'Indiquer' is used directly with the noun 'votre nom'.

3

Le panneau indique le nord.

The sign indicates north.

Simple present tense with a direct object.

4

Je vais vous indiquer le chemin.

I am going to show you the way.

Futur proche (aller + infinitive) with the formal indirect pronoun 'vous'.

5

Indiquez votre âge, s'il vous plaît.

Indicate your age, please.

Imperative form (command) in the 'vous' form.

6

La flèche indique la sortie.

The arrow indicates the exit.

Subject 'La flèche' with the 3rd person singular verb 'indique'.

7

Elle m'indique où est le pain.

She points out to me where the bread is.

Present tense with a subordinate clause 'où est le pain'.

8

Tu peux m'indiquer ton adresse ?

Can you give me your address?

Informal request using 'pouvoir' + infinitive.

1

Le médecin m'a indiqué le traitement à suivre.

The doctor indicated the treatment to follow to me.

Passé composé with an indirect object pronoun 'm''.

2

Le GPS indique qu'il faut tourner à droite.

The GPS indicates that we must turn right.

'Indiquer que' followed by the indicative 'il faut'.

3

Veuillez indiquer votre numéro de téléphone.

Please indicate your phone number.

Polite imperative using 'Veuillez' + infinitive.

4

L'horloge indique midi.

The clock indicates noon.

Used to tell time or what a measuring device shows.

5

Il nous a indiqué un bon restaurant.

He pointed out a good restaurant to us.

Passé composé with the indirect object pronoun 'nous'.

6

Ces nuages indiquent qu'il va pleuvoir.

These clouds indicate that it is going to rain.

Using physical signs to predict an event, followed by 'que'.

7

Indique-moi ce que tu veux manger.

Tell/indicate to me what you want to eat.

Imperative with a pronoun attached by a hyphen 'Indique-moi'.

8

Le thermomètre indique 38 degrés.

The thermometer indicates 38 degrees.

Used for readings on scientific or medical instruments.

1

Les statistiques indiquent une baisse du chômage.

The statistics indicate a decrease in unemployment.

Using 'indiquer' to report data or trends.

2

Ce symptôme indique une infection virale.

This symptom indicates a viral infection.

Medical context: a sign pointing to a specific condition.

3

Le mode d'emploi indique comment monter le meuble.

The instruction manual indicates how to assemble the furniture.

Followed by an interrogative word 'comment' + infinitive.

4

Rien n'indique qu'il soit coupable.

Nothing indicates that he is guilty.

Negative structure 'Rien n'indique que' triggering the subjunctive 'soit'.

5

Il est indiqué de réserver à l'avance.

It is advisable/indicated to book in advance.

Impersonal passive construction 'Il est indiqué de'.

6

La carte indique tous les sentiers de randonnée.

The map indicates all the hiking trails.

Direct object showing comprehensive information provided by an object.

7

Son sourire indiquait qu'elle était d'accord.

Her smile indicated that she agreed.

Imparfait tense used for description in the past.

8

Les sondages indiquent que le candidat va gagner.

The polls indicate that the candidate is going to win.

'Indiquer que' with the futur proche expressing a strong probability.

1

Les données empiriques indiquent une corrélation significative.

The empirical data indicate a significant correlation.

Formal academic vocabulary pairing with 'indiquer'.

2

Ce comportement indique un manque de professionnalisme.

This behavior indicates a lack of professionalism.

Abstract noun 'comportement' acting as the subject indicating a quality.

3

Il m'a clairement indiqué ses intentions.

He clearly indicated his intentions to me.

Adverb 'clairement' modifying the verb in the passé composé.

4

C'est la personne toute indiquée pour ce poste.

He/She is the perfect/most suitable person for this job.

Idiomatic adjectival use 'tout indiqué(e)' meaning perfectly suited.

5

L'enquête n'a pas permis d'indiquer la cause de l'incendie.

The investigation did not make it possible to indicate the cause of the fire.

Infinitive used after the preposition 'de' in a complex sentence.

6

Tout indique que la crise économique est derrière nous.

Everything indicates that the economic crisis is behind us.

Common phrase 'Tout indique que' followed by the indicative.

7

Ce médicament est formellement contre-indiqué en cas de grossesse.

This medication is strictly contraindicated in case of pregnancy.

Use of the related term 'contre-indiqué' in a medical context.

8

Les experts ont indiqué les failles du système de sécurité.

The experts pointed out the flaws in the security system.

Using 'indiquer' to mean highlighting specific errors or issues.

1

Les fluctuations du marché indiquent une volatilité sous-jacente.

Market fluctuations indicate underlying volatility.

Advanced financial terminology used with 'indiquer'.

2

L'auteur utilise cette métaphore pour indiquer la fragilité humaine.

The author uses this metaphor to indicate human fragility.

Literary analysis context, showing intention behind a text.

3

Il s'indique de procéder à une révision complète du protocole.

It is advisable to proceed with a complete review of the protocol.

Highly formal reflexive impersonal structure 'Il s'indique de'.

4

Rien dans son attitude n'indiquait qu'il fût au courant du complot.

Nothing in his attitude indicated that he was aware of the plot.

Literary use of the imperfect subjunctive 'fût' after a negative 'indiquer que'.

5

Les vestiges archéologiques indiquent la présence d'une civilisation avancée.

The archaeological remains indicate the presence of an advanced civilization.

Scientific/historical context deducing facts from evidence.

6

La jurisprudence indique clairement la marche à suivre dans ce cas précis.

Case law clearly indicates the procedure to follow in this specific case.

Legal context where 'indiquer' means to provide authoritative guidance.

7

Son silence prolongé m'a indiqué son refus catégorique.

His prolonged silence indicated his categorical refusal to me.

Abstract subject 'silence' performing the action of indicating.

8

Les directives européennes indiquent les normes environnementales à respecter.

European directives indicate the environmental standards to be respected.

Administrative context referring to official rules and regulations.

1

Tout porte à croire, comme l'indiquent ces prémisses, que la théorie est fallacieuse.

Everything leads one to believe, as these premises indicate, that the theory is fallacious.

Complex sentence structure with an inverted subject 'l'indiquent ces prémisses'.

2

Cette nuance sémantique indique une évolution subtile de la pensée de l'auteur.

This semantic nuance indicates a subtle evolution in the author's thinking.

Highly academic vocabulary analyzing linguistic subtleties.

3

Il ne s'indiquait nullement d'intervenir de manière aussi abrupte.

It was in no way advisable to intervene in such an abrupt manner.

Reflexive impersonal in the imperfect tense with the strong negative 'nullement'.

4

Les stigmates sur la toile indiquent les repentirs successifs du peintre.

The marks on the canvas indicate the successive alterations (pentimenti) of the painter.

Specialized art history vocabulary ('repentirs') paired with 'indiquer'.

5

L'arrêt de la Cour de cassation indique la primauté du droit international.

The ruling of the Court of Cassation indicates the primacy of international law.

High-level legal discourse.

6

Ces anomalies géologiques indiquent des bouleversements tectoniques antédiluviens.

These geological anomalies indicate antediluvian tectonic upheavals.

Advanced scientific and historical vocabulary.

7

Son ton péremptoire indiquait qu'aucune tergiversation ne serait tolérée.

His peremptory tone indicated that no procrastination/equivocation would be tolerated.

Sophisticated vocabulary ('péremptoire', 'tergiversation') surrounding the verb.

8

La recrudescence de ces phénomènes indique une rupture d'équilibre systémique.

The resurgence of these phenomena indicates a systemic balance rupture.

Academic terminology used to describe complex systemic failures.

Häufige Kollokationen

indiquer le chemin
indiquer la direction
indiquer une tendance
indiquer l'heure
indiquer la sortie
indiquer clairement
tout indique que
il est indiqué de
contre-indiqué
indiquer sur le formulaire

Häufige Phrasen

Pouvez-vous m'indiquer... ?

Tout indique que...

Il est indiqué de...

Comme indiqué ci-dessus

Sauf indication contraire

Rien n'indique que...

Indiquer la marche à suivre

Être tout indiqué pour

Wird oft verwechselt mit

indiquer vs montrer (to show visually)

indiquer vs dire (to say verbally)

indiquer vs signaler (to flag/report a problem)

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

Leicht verwechselbar

indiquer vs

indiquer vs

indiquer vs

indiquer vs

indiquer vs

Satzmuster

So verwendest du es

historical

The usage has remained remarkably stable over centuries, maintaining its Latin roots of pointing out or making known.

geographical

Used universally across all French-speaking regions without significant variation in meaning.

domain specific

Highly frequent in medicine (indications vs. contre-indications), law (ce que la loi indique), and data analysis (les indicateurs).

Häufige Fehler
  • Omitting the indirect object pronoun (e.g., saying 'indiquer le chemin' instead of 'm'indiquer le chemin').
  • Using the subjunctive mood after 'indiquer que' in affirmative sentences.
  • Confusing 'indiquer' (to provide information/direction) with 'montrer' (to physically display).
  • Using 'dire' in formal writing when 'indiquer' would be much more appropriate and professional.
  • Mispronouncing the 'qu' as /kw/ instead of the correct hard /k/ sound.

Tipps

Don't forget the pronoun!

English speakers often say 'He indicated the way to me' and translate it directly. In French, you must use the indirect object pronoun before the verb: 'Il M'a indiqué le chemin'. Never say 'Il a indiqué le chemin à moi' unless you are adding extreme emphasis.

Elevate your writing

When writing essays or professional emails, replace the basic verb 'dire' (to say) with 'indiquer' when presenting facts or data. Writing 'Le rapport indique que...' sounds much more professional than 'Le rapport dit que...'.

Mind the 'qu' sound

The 'qu' in 'indiquer' is pronounced as a hard 'k' (/k/), not as 'kw'. It sounds like 'in-di-KAY', not 'in-di-KWAY'. This is a common pronunciation error for native English speakers.

The art of asking directions

In France, politeness is key before asking for anything. Never just walk up and say 'Indiquez-moi la gare'. Always start with 'Bonjour, excusez-moi de vous déranger...' and then use the conditional 'pourriez-vous m'indiquer...'.

Indicative, not subjunctive

Because 'indiquer que' expresses a fact or a strong probability, it is followed by the indicative mood. Do not let the 'que' trick you into using the subjunctive. Say 'Il indique qu'elle EST là', not 'qu'elle SOIT là'.

Medical contexts

If you visit a doctor in France, listen for the word 'indiqué'. If a treatment is 'indiqué', it means it is recommended. If it is 'contre-indiqué', do not take it! It means it is strongly advised against.

Synonym variation

To avoid repeating 'indiquer', learn its synonyms. Use 'montrer' for visual things, 'signaler' to flag a problem, and 'préciser' to add specific details. This will make your French sound much richer.

Forms and paperwork

If you move to France, you will deal with a lot of administration. When a form says 'Veuillez indiquer...', it simply means 'Please write/fill in'. Don't look for a deeper meaning; just provide the requested information.

Use 'tout indiqué'

Impress native speakers by using the phrase 'tout indiqué'. If someone asks for a good place to study, say 'La bibliothèque est toute indiquée' (The library is perfectly suited). It sounds very natural and advanced.

The impersonal passive

Get comfortable with the structure 'Il est indiqué de + infinitive'. It is a very polite, formal way to give an instruction without sounding bossy. 'Il est indiqué de se taire' (It is advisable to be quiet).

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Imagine IN-DI-CATING a direction to a CAT. You point your finger to show the cat where the food is. 'Indiquer' is to point out or indicate.

Wortherkunft

Kultureller Kontext

In French pharmacies, the pharmacist will 'indiquer' the dosage, a highly respected role in the French healthcare system.

Always use 'Pouvez-vous m'indiquer...' (formal) rather than 'Tu peux m'indiquer...' when speaking to strangers.

The word is heavily associated with French administration (la paperasse), where forms constantly demand that you 'indiquez' your information.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Gesprächseinstiege

"Excusez-moi, pourriez-vous m'indiquer la station de métro la plus proche ?"

"Qu'est-ce que ce panneau indique exactement ?"

"Les chiffres de ce mois-ci indiquent-ils une amélioration ?"

"Pouvez-vous m'indiquer la marche à suivre pour cette procédure ?"

"Quels symptômes vous ont indiqué qu'il fallait consulter un médecin ?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Décrivez une fois où quelqu'un vous a mal indiqué le chemin. Que s'est-il passé ?

Regardez les statistiques de votre application préférée. Qu'est-ce que ces données indiquent sur vos habitudes ?

Écrivez un court mode d'emploi pour une tâche simple, en utilisant le verbe 'indiquer' plusieurs fois.

Pensez-vous que les notes à l'école indiquent vraiment l'intelligence d'un élève ? Pourquoi ?

Quels signes indiquent qu'une personne est un véritable ami ?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Generally, no. 'Indiquer que' expresses a fact, a certainty, or a strong probability. Therefore, it is followed by the indicative mood. For example, 'L'étude indique qu'il est malade'. You only use the subjunctive if the sentence is negative ('Rien n'indique qu'il soit malade') or strongly interrogative, expressing doubt. In most standard declarative sentences, stick to the indicative.

While both can translate to 'to show', they have different nuances. 'Montrer' is highly visual; it means to physically display something to someone's eyes (e.g., 'montrer une photo'). 'Indiquer' is more about providing information, pointing out a direction, or stating a fact (e.g., 'indiquer le chemin'). You can 'montrer' a map, but the map 'indique' the route.

The most polite and common way to ask for directions is to use the conditional mood with an indirect object pronoun. You should say, 'Bonjour, excusez-moi, pourriez-vous m'indiquer la gare s'il vous plaît ?' (Hello, excuse me, could you point out the train station to me, please?). This is much better than simply asking 'Où est la gare ?'.

Yes, absolutely. In administrative contexts, 'indiquer' is the standard verb used to instruct someone to fill in their details. You will frequently see phrases like 'Veuillez indiquer votre nom et prénom' (Please indicate your last and first name). It functions as a formal synonym for 'écrire' (to write) or 'mentionner' (to mention).

This is an impersonal, formal structure that translates to 'it is advisable to' or 'it is recommended to'. It is very common in medical advice or official guidelines. For example, 'Il est indiqué de boire beaucoup d'eau' means 'It is advisable to drink a lot of water'. It is a polite but firm way of giving instructions.

Yes, 'indiquer' is a completely regular -er verb. It follows the standard conjugation patterns for verbs ending in -er in all tenses. For example, in the present tense: j'indique, tu indiques, il indique, nous indiquons, vous indiquez, ils indiquent. Its past participle is 'indiqué'.

The primary noun form is 'une indication', which means an indication, a sign, or a piece of advice/instruction. Another related noun is 'un indicateur', which refers to an indicator (like an economic metric) or a turn signal on a car (though 'clignotant' is more common for cars).

The French translation for contraindicated is 'contre-indiqué'. This is heavily used in the medical field. For example, 'Ce médicament est contre-indiqué pour les femmes enceintes' (This medication is contraindicated for pregnant women). The verb form is 'contre-indiquer'.

Yes, in certain contexts, especially academic or analytical ones, 'indiquer' can mean to suggest or to point towards a conclusion. For example, 'Ces résultats indiquent une nouvelle tendance' (These results suggest/indicate a new trend). However, if you mean 'suggest' in the sense of proposing an idea to a friend, use 'suggérer' or 'proposer'.

The phrase 'être tout indiqué' (or 'toute indiquée' for feminine subjects) means to be perfectly suited, ideal, or exactly what is needed for a specific situation. For example, 'Ce restaurant est tout indiqué pour un rendez-vous romantique' means 'This restaurant is perfectly suited for a romantic date'.

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

Verwandte Inhalte

War das hilfreich?

Kommentare (0)

Zum Kommentieren Anmelden
Noch keine Kommentare. Sei der Erste, der seine Gedanken teilt!