This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
English
Vocabulary
indication

C1 noun #3,500 most common 12 min read

indication

Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips indication in 30 Seconds

Explanation indication in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'indication' is quite advanced. Instead of using this big word, you might use the word 'sign'. A 'sign' is something you see that tells you something. For example, if you see a red light, it is a sign to stop. 'Indication' means the same thing, but it is a word used by adults in serious situations. If you are just starting to learn English, you don't need to use 'indication' yet. You can say 'He gave me a sign' or 'It shows that...'. However, if you see the word 'indication', just remember it means 'a sign' or 'a hint'. It is like a little message that tells you what is happening. For example, 'The clouds are an indication of rain' just means 'The clouds show it will rain'. At A1, we focus on simple words like 'show', 'tell', and 'sign'. But knowing that 'indication' is a fancy way to say 'sign' will help you when you read more difficult books later. It's a good word to recognize even if you don't speak it yet.

At the A2 level, you are beginning to use more descriptive language. While 'sign' is still your best friend, you might start to see 'indication' in short news articles or simple health instructions. An 'indication' is a sign that something exists or is happening. For example, if a baby is crying, it is an indication that they are hungry or tired. It is a more formal way of saying 'a way to know'. You might use it in a sentence like, 'There was no indication that the shop was closed.' This sounds a bit more professional than 'I didn't see a sign'. A2 learners should start to notice how 'indication' is often followed by the word 'of'. For example: 'an indication of success' or 'an indication of trouble'. It helps you describe things more clearly. You can think of it as a 'clue'. If you find a clue in a game, that clue is an indication of where the treasure is. It's a useful word for moving from basic English to more natural-sounding English.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable recognizing 'indication' and starting to use it in your writing. This word is very common in workplace English and intermediate academic texts. It is used to describe evidence that isn't 100% certain but suggests something is true. For instance, 'The low test scores are an indication that the students need more help.' Here, it's more precise than 'sign' because it suggests a logical conclusion based on facts. B1 learners should also learn the verb form 'indicate'. If you say 'The map indicates the way', then 'the map gives an indication of the way'. Using the noun form 'indication' makes your sentences sound more objective and formal. You will often hear it in phrases like 'give an indication' or 'there is no indication'. For example, 'The manager gave no indication of when the project would end.' This level of English requires you to start distinguishing between casual words ('hint', 'clue') and more formal ones like 'indication'. It shows you can handle more complex topics like business and health.

At the B2 level, 'indication' should be a regular part of your vocabulary, especially in formal essays and professional communication. You should understand the nuances of how it's used to provide a balanced view. For example, using 'indication' instead of 'proof' shows that you understand that some things are suggested rather than proven. This is a key part of critical thinking in English. You should be able to use various adjectives with it, such as 'clear indication', 'strong indication', or 'slight indication'. You should also be familiar with the structure 'indication that...', such as 'There is every indication that the market will improve.' This shows a high level of grammatical control. B2 learners also encounter the word in medical contexts ('indications for use') and technical manuals. You are expected to use 'indication' to make your arguments more sophisticated. Instead of saying 'This shows that...', you might write 'This serves as a clear indication that...'. This transition is vital for achieving a higher score in exams like IELTS or TOEFL.

At the C1 level, you are expected to use 'indication' with precision and stylistic flair. You understand that 'indication' is not just a sign, but often a subtle manifestation of a complex phenomenon. You use it to navigate the space between observation and inference. At this level, you should be comfortable with more complex collocations like 'preliminary indication', 'reliable indication', and 'contrary indication'. You also understand the difference between 'indication' and 'indicator' (the latter being the tool or metric used to find the indication). C1 speakers use 'indication' to maintain a professional, analytical tone in their writing and speech. For example, you might say, 'The shift in consumer sentiment is a subtle indication of a broader cultural change.' You also use the negative form effectively: 'Despite the rumors, there was no tangible indication of a merger.' Your use of the word reflects an ability to discuss abstract concepts with clarity and authority. You are also aware of its use in specialized fields like law, medicine, and economics, and can adapt your usage accordingly.

At the C2 level, 'indication' is a word you use with total mastery, often employing it in highly nuanced or even idiomatic ways. You are aware of its rhythmic value in a sentence and its ability to convey a specific degree of professional detachment or academic caution. A C2 user might use 'indication' to discuss the semiotics of a text or the subtle precursors of a geopolitical shift. You understand the historical weight of the word and its relationship to other Latinate terms in the English lexicon. You might use it in complex structures like 'In the absence of any indication to the contrary...' or 'The findings are indicative of, though not an absolute indication of, the underlying cause.' You can play with the word's formality, using it to add weight to a statement or to provide a precise, clinical description of a phenomenon. For a C2 learner, 'indication' is not just a vocabulary item; it is a tool for fine-tuning the exact meaning and tone of your communication, allowing for the highest level of expression in both creative and technical writing.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

indication in 30 Seconds

A formal noun meaning a sign, hint, or piece of evidence suggesting a specific state or event.
Commonly used in medical, economic, and legal contexts to describe observed patterns or symptoms.
Often pairs with 'of' (indication of) or 'that' (indication that) to provide more detail.
Distinguished from 'proof' by being a suggestion rather than a definitive, absolute certainty.

The term indication is a sophisticated noun that serves as a cornerstone of analytical and descriptive English, particularly at the C1 level. At its core, an indication is a sign, a suggestion, or a piece of evidence that points toward a specific conclusion, state of being, or future event. Unlike a 'proof' which is definitive, an indication suggests a high probability or a visible trend. It is the linguistic tool we use when we observe something that hints at a deeper reality.

The Diagnostic Context: In medical or technical fields, an indication refers to a symptom or a reading that suggests a specific condition or the need for a particular treatment. For instance, a high fever is an indication of an underlying infection. Here, the word carries a weight of professional observation and data-driven reasoning.

The sudden drop in barometric pressure was a clear indication that a severe storm was approaching the coastline.

In social and interpersonal dynamics, indications are often non-verbal. A slight frown might be an indication of disagreement, or a quick glance at a watch could be an indication of boredom or time constraints. In these settings, the word helps us describe the subtle cues that govern human interaction without necessarily being explicit or overt.

The Economic and Statistical Realm: Economists look for indications of growth or recession. These are not just guesses; they are based on leading indicators like consumer spending or manufacturing output. In this context, 'indication' implies a pattern derived from complex data sets.

The CEO’s optimistic tone gave every indication that the quarterly results would exceed expectations.

Furthermore, 'indication' is frequently used in formal writing to avoid the bluntness of words like 'show' or 'tell'. It provides a layer of professional distance. Instead of saying 'He showed he was angry', one might write 'He gave an indication of his displeasure'. This nuance is vital for achieving a C1 level of fluency, where precision and register are paramount.

Is there any indication as to when the project will be completed?

Legal and Forensic Usage: In legal proceedings, an indication might be a piece of circumstantial evidence. It is not a smoking gun, but it points the investigation in a certain direction. It suggests a motive or a presence without providing absolute proof.

The preliminary findings provide a strong indication of the drug's efficacy.

Finally, the concept of 'indication' is linked to the verb 'indicate'. While the verb describes the action of pointing out, the noun describes the result of that action—the sign itself. Understanding this relationship allows learners to swap between parts of speech to vary their sentence structure effectively. In essence, an indication is the tangible or observable shadow cast by a larger, perhaps hidden, truth. It is the signal that allows us to infer what is not immediately obvious.

Mastering the use of indication requires an understanding of its typical grammatical environments and the adjectives that commonly modify it. Because it is an abstract noun, it often functions as the object of a verb or the head of a prepositional phrase.

Common Verb Pairings: The most frequent verbs used with 'indication' are 'give', 'provide', 'show', and 'find'. For example, 'The data gives a clear indication of the trend.' You can also 'seek' an indication or 'ignore' an indication. These pairings help establish the flow of information from the source to the observer.

The researchers were unable to find any indication of contamination in the water supply.

Adjectives play a crucial role in qualifying the strength or clarity of the sign. You will often see 'clear', 'strong', 'slight', 'vague', 'positive', or 'early' used to describe an indication. A 'clear indication' leaves little room for doubt, while a 'vague indication' suggests something is happening but doesn't provide enough detail to be certain.

Prepositional Usage: Beyond the standard 'indication of', we also see 'indication as to'. For example, 'They gave no indication as to their future plans.' This specific construction is used when discussing a range of possibilities or a specific question that needs answering.

There was no indication as to why the meeting had been abruptly cancelled.

In negative sentences, 'indication' is often used with 'no' or 'little' to express a lack of evidence. 'There is no indication of foul play' is a classic phrase in crime reporting. This negative usage is powerful because it helps to rule out possibilities during an investigation or a logical argument.

His silence was taken as an indication of his consent, though he never actually spoke.

Formal Reporting: In professional emails, you might say, 'Please give us an indication of your availability.' This is more polite and less demanding than asking 'When are you free?'. It implies that a general idea is sufficient for now.

The initial symptoms were the first indication that the patient was suffering from a rare autoimmune disorder.

Finally, consider the phrase 'every indication'. This is an idiomatic way of saying that everything points to a certain conclusion. 'There is every indication that the project will be a success.' It conveys a high level of confidence without making an absolute guarantee. By using these varied structures, you can integrate 'indication' into your vocabulary as a flexible tool for nuanced communication.

The word indication is a staple in the lexicon of professional and intellectual discourse. While you might not hear it shouted across a playground, you will encounter it frequently in environments where analysis, reporting, and careful observation are required.

In the News and Media: Journalists use 'indication' to report on developing stories where facts are still coming to light. You'll hear phrases like, 'There are early indications that the ceasefire might hold,' or 'Market indicators give us a strong indication of investor sentiment.' It allows reporters to discuss possibilities without making premature claims of certainty.

The polls provide a reliable indication of the public's current mood regarding the new legislation.

In the corporate world, 'indication' is the language of strategy and forecasting. During quarterly earnings calls or board meetings, executives use it to describe trends in consumer behavior or operational efficiency. A manager might say, 'We need an indication of the resources required for the next phase.' Here, it acts as a formal request for an estimate or a sign of what is to come.

Science and Medicine: In a clinical setting, doctors look for 'indications' for surgery or specific medications. If a patient shows certain symptoms, those are indications that a specific intervention is necessary. Conversely, a 'contraindication' is a sign that a treatment should *not* be used. This precision is literally a matter of life and death.

The presence of specific antibodies is a clear indication that the body is fighting the virus.

Legal dramas and real-life courtrooms also feature this word heavily. Lawyers might argue that the defendant's actions gave a clear indication of intent. In this context, 'indication' is used to build a narrative based on observed behaviors and evidence. It is about connecting the dots for a jury or a judge.

The witness's hesitation was a subtle indication that they were not entirely sure of their statement.

Weather and Environment: Meteorologists use indications to predict weather patterns. Satellites and sensors provide indications of moisture levels, wind speeds, and temperature shifts. Similarly, environmentalists look for indications of climate change, such as melting glaciers or shifting animal migration patterns.

The rising sea levels are a terrifying indication of the planet's warming climate.

In summary, 'indication' is a word of observation and inference. It is used whenever someone is looking at a part of a puzzle and trying to describe what the whole picture might look like. Whether in a lab, a boardroom, or a news studio, it is the language of professional deduction.

While indication is a powerful word, it is often misused by learners who confuse it with similar-sounding words or fail to use the correct prepositional structures. Avoiding these pitfalls is essential for maintaining a high level of academic or professional credibility.

Confusing 'Indication' with 'Indicator': An 'indicator' is the thing that shows the sign (like a gauge, a light, or a specific metric), whereas an 'indication' is the sign itself. For example, 'The thermometer (indicator) gave an indication of the high temperature.' Using 'indicator' when you mean the abstract sign is a common error.

Incorrect: The high sales are a good indicator that people like the product. (Better: indication). Correct: Economic indicators suggest growth.

Another frequent mistake is using the wrong preposition. Learners often try to use 'indication to' or 'indication for' when 'indication of' is the standard. While 'indication as to' is acceptable in certain contexts (usually regarding a question), 'indication of' is the safe and most common choice.

Overstating Certainty: Learners sometimes use 'indication' as if it means 'absolute proof'. Remember, an indication is a sign or a suggestion. If you have 100% proof, use the word 'proof' or 'evidence'. Using 'indication' in a context of absolute certainty can make your writing seem hesitant or imprecise.

Correct: The DNA results provided proof of his innocence. (Indication would be too weak here).

A subtle mistake involves the use of 'every indication'. While idiomatic, it should not be used in very informal settings where 'it looks like' or 'probably' is more natural. Conversely, in very formal scientific papers, 'every indication' might be seen as slightly too rhetorical; scientists prefer 'strong indication'.

Incorrect: I have every indication that I will eat pizza for dinner. (Too formal; use 'I'm probably having pizza').

Pluralization Issues: Sometimes learners use the singular 'indication' when referring to multiple signs. If there are several different signs pointing to a conclusion, use the plural 'indications'. For example, 'There are several indications that the market is shifting.'

Finally, be careful with the phrase 'give an indication'. It is often followed by a 'that' clause or an 'of' phrase. Mixing these up—like saying 'give an indication for that...'—is a sign of lower-level grammar. Stick to the patterns: 'give an indication of [noun]' or 'give an indication that [clause]'.

To truly master indication, you must understand how it relates to its synonyms and which word is best suited for a specific context. Choosing the right alternative can change the tone of your sentence from casual to clinical to academic.

Indication vs. Sign: 'Sign' is the most common and versatile synonym. It can be physical (a road sign) or abstract (a sign of the times). 'Indication' is more formal and often implies a process of deduction or a more subtle suggestion. You see a 'sign' of rain; you find an 'indication' of a trend.

The dark clouds are a sign of rain. The economic data provides an indication of a recession.

'Evidence' is much stronger than 'indication'. If you have evidence, you have facts that help prove something is true. An indication is just a pointer. If a detective finds a fingerprint, that's evidence. If they notice the suspect is acting nervous, that's an indication of guilt.

Indication vs. Suggestion: 'Suggestion' is often used when the sign is very subtle or when someone is indirectly hinting at something. 'He gave no suggestion that he was unhappy' is similar to 'He gave no indication,' but 'suggestion' feels a bit more personal or subjective.

There was a suggestion of a smile on her face. There was a clear indication that she was pleased.

In academic writing, you might use 'manifestation'. This refers to a very clear or physical showing of an abstract idea. 'The protests were a manifestation of public anger.' This is much stronger and more formal than 'indication'.

Other Alternatives: 'Clue' and 'hint' are more informal. A 'clue' is used when solving a mystery. A 'hint' is a very small piece of information. 'Signal' is used when there is a deliberate attempt to communicate something or a very clear change in a state.

The bird's behavior was taken as an omen of disaster. The thermometer gave an indication of the heat.

By understanding these differences, you can tailor your language to the exact degree of certainty and formality required. 'Indication' remains the most balanced choice for professional, analytical, and descriptive English.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The root 'dic' in indication is the same as in 'dictionary' and 'dictate', meaning 'to say' or 'to tell'. So, an indication is literally something that 'tells' you something.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˌɪndɪˈkeɪʃn/

US /ˌɪndəˈkeɪʃn/

in-di-CA-tion

Rhymes With

education application location vacation foundation medication creation relation

Common Errors

Placing stress on the first syllable (IN-di-ca-tion).
Mispronouncing the 'tion' as 'tee-on'.
Confusing it with 'indication' (the act) vs 'indicator' (the tool).
Dropping the 'n' at the end.
Over-emphasizing the second syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in news and academic texts, but requires context to fully grasp the nuance.

Writing 5/5

Requires knowledge of specific collocations like 'of' and 'that'.

Speaking 5/5

Formal word that might sound out of place in very casual conversation.

Listening 4/5

Easily confused with 'indicator' or 'indicate' when spoken quickly.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

sign hint show point suggest

Learn Next

manifestation inference deduction implication precursor

Advanced

semiotics diagnostic prognosis empirical circumstantial

Grammar to Know

Noun + 'that' clause

There is an indication that the plan will work.

Noun + 'of' + noun phrase

He gave an indication of his future plans.

Countable vs Uncountable

You can have 'an indication' (singular) or 'many indications' (plural).

Adjective placement

Always place the qualifying adjective before the noun: 'clear indication'.

Negative 'no' usage

Use 'no' for total absence: 'There was no indication'.

Examples by Level

The red light is a stop indication.

The red light is a sign to stop.

Simple noun usage as a subject complement.

Is there an indication for the bus?

Is there a sign for the bus?

Asking a simple question with 'is there'.

His smile was a good indication.

His smile was a good sign.

Using an adjective ('good') to modify the noun.

She gave no indication of help.

She didn't show she needed help.

Negative construction with 'no'.

The map has an indication of the park.

The map shows where the park is.

Using 'of' to show what the indication is about.

Clouds are an indication of rain.

Clouds show that rain is coming.

Plural noun 'clouds' with singular 'indication'.

The bell is an indication to start.

The bell means it is time to start.

Using 'to' + infinitive after the noun.

There is no indication of food here.

There is no sign of food here.

Standard 'there is no' pattern.

There was no indication that the store was closed.

I didn't see anything that said the store was closed.

Using a 'that' clause to explain the indication.

The doctor looked for an indication of the flu.

The doctor looked for signs of the flu.

Verb 'look for' paired with the noun.

Give me an indication of when you will arrive.

Tell me roughly when you will be here.

Imperative sentence using 'give'.

His silence was an indication of his anger.

His not speaking showed he was angry.

Abstract noun as an indication.

The wet ground is an indication of recent rain.

The wet ground shows it rained recently.

Linking a physical state to a cause.

Is there any indication of how much it costs?

Is there anything that shows the price?

Using 'any' in a question.

The bright sun is an indication of a hot day.

The sun shows it will be a hot day.

Predictive use of the word.

She gave a clear indication of her choice.

She showed clearly what she chose.

Using the adjective 'clear'.

The preliminary results give a strong indication of success.

The first results suggest we will succeed.

Using 'preliminary' and 'strong' for nuance.

There is every indication that the economy is recovering.

Everything shows the economy is getting better.

The idiom 'every indication' with a 'that' clause.

The witness provided an indication of the suspect's height.

The witness gave a hint about how tall the suspect was.

Formal verb 'provide'.

He showed no indication of wanting to leave the party.

He didn't seem like he wanted to go home.

Using a gerund phrase after 'of'.

The sudden noise was the first indication of a problem.

The noise was the first sign that something was wrong.

Ordinal number 'first' modifying the noun.

We need some indication of the total cost before we start.

We need to know roughly how much it will cost.

Using 'some' for an indefinite amount.

The poll gives an indication of the public's opinion.

The survey shows what people think.

Possessive 'public's' modifying the object of 'of'.

Her frequent absences were an indication of her unhappiness.

Her being away so much showed she was unhappy.

Plural subject with a singular complement.

The study provides a clear indication of the drug's long-term effects.

The research shows what the drug does over time.

Using 'long-term effects' as a complex object.

There was no indication as to why the flight had been delayed.

No one said why the plane was late.

The 'indication as to why' construction.

The CEO's speech gave little indication of future layoffs.

The boss didn't say much about people losing jobs.

Using 'little' to express a small amount.

Initial indications suggest that the fire was started accidentally.

The first signs show the fire was an accident.

Plural 'indications' as the subject of the verb 'suggest'.

His body language gave a subtle indication of his discomfort.

The way he moved showed slightly that he was uneasy.

Using the sophisticated adjective 'subtle'.

The team's performance is a strong indication of their hard work.

How they played shows they worked very hard.

Linking performance to an abstract cause.

Is there any indication of a change in the company's policy?

Is there any sign that the rules are changing?

Questioning a formal change.

The archaeological finds are an indication of a sophisticated ancient culture.

The old objects show the people were very advanced.

Academic context with complex adjectives.

The prevailing economic indicators provide a clear indication of a looming recession.

The current data shows a recession is coming soon.

Differentiating between 'indicators' and 'indication'.

The author gives no indication of her own political leanings in the book.

The writer doesn't show what she thinks about politics.

Discussing authorial intent and bias.

There is every indication that the diplomatic talks will reach a stalemate.

It looks very likely that the talks will fail to progress.

Using 'every indication' for high-level forecasting.

The patient showed no contraindication to the proposed surgical procedure.

There were no signs that the surgery would be dangerous.

Using the technical term 'contraindication'.

The sudden shift in the bird's migration pattern is a troubling indication of climate change.

The birds moving differently is a worrying sign of global warming.

Evaluating environmental signs.

He gave a vague indication of his whereabouts, but nothing specific.

He said roughly where he was, but not exactly.

Using 'vague' to describe imprecise information.

The findings serve as an indication of the deep-seated tensions within the community.

The results show that there is a lot of hidden anger in the group.

Using 'serve as' to describe the function of the indication.

The lack of response was taken as a clear indication of their refusal to cooperate.

Since they didn't answer, we knew they wouldn't help.

Passive voice 'was taken as' to show interpretation.

The intricate nuances of the prose offer a subtle indication of the protagonist's deteriorating mental state.

The small details in the writing hint that the character is losing their mind.

Literary analysis using 'subtle indication'.

In the absence of any indication to the contrary, we must assume the hypothesis is correct.

Unless we see a sign that it's wrong, we think it's right.

The formal conditional phrase 'in the absence of... to the contrary'.

The aesthetic shift in the late works of the artist is an indication of a profound existential crisis.

The change in the art shows the artist was questioning life deeply.

Art historical analysis with abstract nouns.

The geopolitical maneuvering gave a clear indication of the state's long-term territorial ambitions.

The political moves showed what land the country wanted to take.

Political science context with strategic vocabulary.

There was no tangible indication of the impending catastrophe until it was far too late.

There was no physical sign the disaster was coming until the end.

Using 'tangible' to emphasize physical evidence.

The linguistic data provides a compelling indication of the language's Proto-Indo-European roots.

The word data strongly shows where the language came from.

Scientific/Linguistic context with 'compelling'.

Her carefully curated public persona gave little indication of the turmoil in her private life.

The way she acted in public didn't show the problems at home.

Contrasting public appearance with private reality.

The volatility of the markets is an indication of the profound uncertainty surrounding the election.

The markets jumping up and down shows people are worried about the vote.

Economic analysis of sentiment.

Synonyms

sign signal evidence symptom manifestation clue

Antonyms

concealment denial contradiction

Common Collocations

clear indication

strong indication

give an indication

no indication of

every indication that

early indication

vague indication

preliminary indication

reliable indication

slight indication

Common Phrases

give some indication

— To provide a general idea or a hint about something.

Can you give some indication of when you'll be finished?

as an indication of

— Using something as a representative sign of a larger state.

He used his high score as an indication of his readiness.

show no indication

— To not display any signs of a particular feeling or state.

The suspect showed no indication of guilt during the interview.

the first indication

— The very first sign that something is starting to happen.

The smoke was the first indication of the fire.

every indication

— A phrase meaning all signs point to a certain conclusion.

There is every indication that the project will succeed.

indication of interest

— A formal expression showing that one is interested in something (often business).

We have received several indications of interest from buyers.

no indication as to

— Lack of information regarding a specific question or reason.

There is no indication as to why he resigned.

clear indication that

— An obvious sign that a specific situation is true.

The broken window was a clear indication that someone had entered.

contrary indication

— A sign that suggests the opposite of what is expected.

Despite the good news, there were some contrary indications.

tangible indication

— A physical or concrete sign that can be seen or touched.

The receipt is a tangible indication of the purchase.

Often Confused With

indication vs indicator

An indicator is the tool or metric; an indication is the sign itself.

indication vs indicate

Indicate is the verb (to show); indication is the noun (the show).

indication vs index

An index is a list or a mathematical power, while an indication is a sign.

Idioms & Expressions

"give every indication of"

— To behave in a way that makes something seem very likely.

He gives every indication of being a very honest man.

formal

"no indication whatsoever"

— Absolutely no sign at all.

There was no indication whatsoever that he was planning to quit.

emphatic

"an indication of things to come"

— A sign that suggests what will happen in the future.

The small argument was an indication of things to come in their marriage.

neutral

"take something as an indication"

— To interpret an event or remark as a sign of something.

I took her silence as an indication that she was angry.

neutral

"give a clear indication"

— To be very explicit or obvious about something without saying it directly.

The report gave a clear indication of where the money went.

formal

"beyond any indication"

— Something that is so obvious it doesn't need a sign (less common, usually 'beyond any doubt').

The truth was beyond any simple indication.

literary

"scant indication"

— Very little or insufficient sign of something.

There was scant indication of any survivors.

formal

"positive indication"

— A sign that confirms a desired or expected result.

The test gave a positive indication of the presence of oil.

technical

"serve as an indication"

— To function as a sign or example.

Let this award serve as an indication of our gratitude.

formal

"without indication"

— Happening suddenly or without warning signs.

The storm arrived without indication.

neutral

Easily Confused

indication vs Indicator

They sound very similar and share the same root.

An indicator is a physical object or a specific statistical metric (like the GDP). An indication is the abstract message or sign that something is true.

The gas gauge is the indicator; the needle on 'E' is the indication that you need fuel.

indication vs Evidence

Both refer to things that show something else is true.

Evidence is much stronger and usually implies proof or factual support. Indication is weaker and suggests a possibility or a hint.

The bloody knife is evidence; his nervous behavior is an indication of guilt.

indication vs Symptom

Both are signs of an underlying condition.

Symptom is almost always used for illness or negative problems. Indication is neutral and can be used for positive, negative, or technical signs.

A cough is a symptom; a rising stock price is an indication of growth.

indication vs Signal

Both involve communicating information through signs.

A signal is often a deliberate act intended to communicate (like a hand signal). An indication can be unintentional (like a slip of the tongue).

He signaled for a taxi; his stutter was an indication of his nerves.

indication vs Suggestion

Both imply something without stating it directly.

Suggestion is often more subjective or related to human ideas. Indication is often more objective or based on observed data.

There was a suggestion of spice in the soup; there was an indication of a chemical leak.

Sentence Patterns

It is an indication of [noun].

It is an indication of rain.

There was no indication of [noun].

There was no indication of the price.

Give an indication of [noun].

Please give an indication of the time.

There is every indication that [clause].

There is every indication that she will pass.

[Noun] serves as a clear indication of [noun].

The data serves as a clear indication of market trends.

No indication as to [question word]...

No indication as to why he left.

In the absence of any indication to the contrary...

In the absence of any indication to the contrary, we proceed.

A subtle indication of [abstract noun].

A subtle indication of his growing resentment.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in professional and academic English.

Common Mistakes

Using 'indication' for a physical road sign. → I saw a sign for London.
'Indication' is for abstract signs or evidence, not physical road signs or advertisements.
Confusing 'indicator' and 'indication'. → The high temperature is an indication of fever.
The thermometer is the indicator; the high reading is the indication.
Saying 'indication for' instead of 'indication of' in general English. → This is an indication of success.
'Indication for' is mostly used in medical contexts (e.g., indication for treatment).
Using 'indication' as a verb. → The results indicate a problem.
'Indication' is a noun. Use 'indicate' for the verb form.
Using 'indication' where 'proof' is needed. → The DNA is proof of his identity.
An indication is just a hint or suggestion; proof is definitive. Don't use 'indication' if you are 100% sure.

Tips

Using the 'That' Clause

Always remember that 'indication' can be followed by a full sentence starting with 'that'. This is perfect for formal writing. Example: 'The evidence gave an indication that the suspect was lying.' This structure allows you to explain complex ideas clearly.

Vary Your Adjectives

Don't just say 'an indication'. Use descriptive adjectives like 'clear', 'strong', 'subtle', 'vague', or 'preliminary'. This adds precision to your English and shows you have a high-level vocabulary. A 'subtle indication' is very different from a 'clear indication'.

Business Politeness

In professional emails, use 'indication' to ask for information without being too pushy. Instead of 'Tell me the price,' try 'Could you give me an indication of the price?' This sounds much more professional and gives the other person some flexibility.

Hedging Your Claims

In academic writing, it's important not to sound too certain if you don't have absolute proof. Use 'indication' to 'hedge' your claims. Instead of saying 'This proves X,' say 'This provides an indication of X.' This makes your writing sound more scientific and careful.

Medical Accuracy

If you are in the medical field, learn the difference between 'indication' (reason to do something) and 'contraindication' (reason NOT to do something). This distinction is vital for patient safety and professional communication with other healthcare providers.

Avoiding Redundancy

Avoid saying 'a sign that gives an indication'. This is redundant because a sign IS an indication. Just say 'The sign is an indication of...' or 'The sign indicates...'. Keeping your sentences lean and meaningful is a key skill for C1 learners.

Catching the Preposition

When listening to native speakers, pay close attention to the word after 'indication'. If it's 'of', a noun is coming. If it's 'that', a full thought or action is coming. If it's 'as to', a question is being addressed. This helps you predict the rest of the sentence.

The 'Every Indication' Phrase

Practice the phrase 'There is every indication that...'. It's a great 'sentence starter' for giving your opinion on a future event. It sounds very natural and confident. 'There is every indication that the team will win the championship this year.'

Formal Summaries

When summarizing data or a story, use 'indication' to wrap up your thoughts. 'All these factors provide a strong indication that the market is changing.' This helps you synthesize information and provide a clear conclusion for your reader.

Context is King

Remember that 'indication' is about signs and hints. If you are talking about a physical object like a poster or a billboard, use 'sign'. If you are talking about an abstract trend or a subtle feeling, 'indication' is the better choice.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of an 'indicator' on a car. It gives an 'indication' of which way you are turning. Indicator = Tool, Indication = The Sign.

Visual Association

Imagine a detective looking through a magnifying glass at a single footprint. The footprint is the 'indication' that someone was there.

Word Web

Sign Hint Evidence Symptom Signal Clue Suggestion Pointer

Challenge

Try to use 'indication' instead of 'sign' three times today in your writing or speech. Notice how it changes the tone.

Word Origin

From the Latin word 'indicatio', which comes from 'indicare'.

Original meaning: The act of pointing out or showing.

Italic (Latin) -> Romance -> Middle English.

Cultural Context

Generally a neutral word, but in medicine, 'indications' must be followed strictly to avoid malpractice.

Common in formal business, law, and news reporting.

Medical 'indications and contraindications' in drug manuals. Economic 'leading indicators' in financial news. Sherlock Holmes often looking for a 'slight indication' of a crime.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Medical Diagnosis

indication for surgery
clinical indication
no contraindication
diagnostic indication

Economic Forecasting

market indication
leading indicator
indication of growth
price indication

Legal Proceedings

indication of intent
no indication of foul play
circumstantial indication
indication of guilt

Weather Reporting

indication of a storm
early indications of spring
indication of rising levels
atmospheric indication

Social Interaction

give an indication of mood
no indication of interest
subtle indication of boredom
indication of agreement

Conversation Starters

"Do you think the current weather is a good indication of what the rest of the summer will be like?"

"In your job, what is the most important indication that a project is going to be successful?"

"Can you give me an indication of how much time you usually spend on social media?"

"Have you ever ignored a clear indication that something was going wrong? What happened?"

"Do you believe that first impressions are a reliable indication of a person's character?"

Journal Prompts

Reflect on a time when you missed a clear indication of someone's feelings. How did it affect your relationship?

What are the indications in your personal life that you are becoming more stressed or more relaxed?

Describe a situation where a small indication led to a major discovery or realization.

Write about the indications of change you see in your neighborhood or city over the last five years.

How do you give an indication to others that you are listening carefully during a conversation?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'indication' is considered a formal or semi-formal word. It is commonly found in academic writing, professional reports, and news broadcasts. In casual conversation, people are more likely to use 'sign' or 'hint'. Using 'indication' in the right context can make your English sound more sophisticated and precise.

While they are synonyms, 'sign' is much broader. A 'sign' can be a physical object (like a stop sign) or an abstract hint. 'Indication' is almost always abstract and suggests a process of reasoning or observation. You would say 'I saw a sign for the exit,' but 'The data gives an indication of future trends.'

Usually, we say 'an indication of'. However, in medical contexts, you can say 'an indication for surgery,' which means a reason why surgery should be done. In most general English, 'of' is the correct preposition to use when describing what the sign points to.

The phrase 'every indication' is an idiom that means all the signs point to one conclusion. It is usually followed by a 'that' clause. For example, 'There is every indication that the weather will improve.' It is a strong way to make a prediction based on current evidence.

Yes, 'indication' is a countable noun. You can say 'one indication,' 'two indications,' or 'several indications.' For example, 'There were many indications that the company was in financial trouble.' Using the plural form is common when multiple signs lead to the same conclusion.

This phrase is used when there is no information or sign regarding a specific question. It is usually followed by words like 'why', 'where', 'who', or 'how'. For example, 'There is no indication as to why he left the party so early.' It’s a very formal way to express a lack of clues.

No, 'indication' is a neutral word. It can be used for positive signs ('an indication of success'), negative signs ('an indication of failure'), or neutral observations ('an indication of the temperature'). The context and the adjectives used with it determine the tone.

A 'contraindication' is a specific medical term. It refers to a sign or condition that makes a particular treatment or drug dangerous for a patient. For example, pregnancy is a contraindication for certain types of medication. It is essentially the opposite of an indication for treatment.

No, 'indication' is only a noun. The verb form is 'indicate'. For example, 'The thermometer indicates (verb) the temperature, which gives us an indication (noun) of how hot it is.' It is important not to confuse the two parts of speech in your writing.

Yes, it is very common to use it for non-verbal cues. 'She gave no indication of her disappointment' means she didn't show she was disappointed. It is a more formal and objective way to describe someone's behavior than saying 'She didn't look sad.'