indicate
IHN-dih-kayt
Indicate (verb) means to point out or show; to make something known. Example: “The arrow indicates which way to go.”
verb
1
To point out or show; to make something known.
"The arrow indicates which way to go."
"Her test results indicate a mild infection."
"Dark clouds often indicate that rain is on the way."
2
(UK) To signal a turn while driving.
"Remember to indicate before changing lanes."
"He forgot to indicate left at the roundabout and confused the other drivers."
"You should always indicate in good time so cyclists know what you plan to do."
How to use indicate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo point to, show, or suggest something.
UK vs US
In British English, "indicate" is the everyday word for using a car's turn signal; American English usually says "signal" instead.
Common pairings
indicate a preference
results indicate
indicate left/right
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- indicates
- Past tense
- indicated
- Archaic forms
- indicatest, indicatedst, indicateth
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The arrow _____ which way to go.
Etymology
From Latin indicare, "to point out," from in- ("toward") + dicare ("to proclaim, declare").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
contraindicate
Related words
Rhymes for indicate
See all rhymes for indicate →Frequently asked questions
What does “indicate” mean?
The word “indicate” means to point out or show; to make something known. In plain terms, to point to, show, or suggest something.
How do you pronounce “indicate”?
“Indicate” is pronounced IHN-dih-kayt (/ˈɪndɪˌkeɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “indicate” in a sentence?
Here is “indicate” used in a sentence: “The arrow indicates which way to go.”
What part of speech is “indicate”?
“Indicate” is a verb.
Where does the word “indicate” come from?
The word “indicate” comes from Latin. From Latin indicare, "to point out," from in- ("toward") + dicare ("to proclaim, declare").
Is “indicate” a common word?
“Indicate” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “indicate” have?
“Indicate” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to point out or show; to make something known.
What is the difference between "indicate" and "imply"?
"Indicate" means to point out or show something clearly and directly, as in "the sign indicates the exit." "Imply" means to suggest something indirectly without stating it outright. Indication is more explicit, while implication is more subtle.
What is the difference between "indicate" and "signal" when driving?
In British English, "indicate" specifically means using a car's flashing lights to show you intend to turn or change lanes. "Signal" is a broader term that can include indicating, hand gestures, or other warnings. Americans typically say "use your turn signal" rather than "indicate."
Is "indicate" formal or informal?
"Indicate" is fairly formal and common in writing, reports, and technical or academic contexts. In casual speech, people often say "show," "point to," or "suggest" instead. It carries a neutral, factual tone.
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