indicate

To show a fact, amount, or condition through signs, evidence, or a measurement.

• The gauge indicates the fuel level.
• Dark clouds indicate that rain may be coming.
• The test results indicated a problem with the engine.

How to use it: indicate that… (The results indicate that water quality is improving.)

Similar words: show, suggest, signal

Common phrases: indicate the temperature, indicate a problem, indicate a change, indicate the direction

To make your thoughts, wishes, or plans known, often without giving many details.

• Please indicate your preferred date.
• She indicated that she wanted to leave.
• Several students have indicated an interest in joining the club.

How to use it: indicate that… (She indicated that she would accept the offer.); indicate something to someone (He indicated his concerns to the manager.)

Similar words: express, signal, communicate

Common phrases: indicate your preference, indicate an intention, indicate interest

To draw someone's attention to something by pointing at it or showing where it is.

• She indicated the door with her hand.
• The guide indicated our position on the map.
• Can you indicate which seat is yours?

How to use it: indicate something to someone (She indicated the correct door to the visitor.); indicate something with something (He indicated the path with a wave of his hand.)

Similar words: point out, show

Common phrases: indicate the direction, indicate the location, indicate with something

To use a vehicle's flashing lights to show that you are going to turn or change lanes.

• Remember to indicate before you turn.
• The driver indicated left and slowed down.
• Did you indicate before changing lanes?

Similar words: signal

Common phrases: indicate left, indicate right, indicate before turning

To show that a particular medical treatment is needed or suitable.

• These symptoms indicate further tests.
• The severity of the injury indicated surgery.
• Antibiotic treatment is indicated for this bacterial infection.

How to use it: be indicated for something (This treatment is indicated for severe cases.)

Similar words: warrant, justify

Opposites: contraindicate

Common phrases: indicate surgery, indicate treatment, indicate further tests