What does indicate mean?
To indicate means to show, point out, or make something known. The word is highly versatile and can describe a simple sign, such as an arrow indicating a direction, as well as evidence or information that suggests a broader conclusion. In formal contexts, “the findings indicate” commonly introduces what research, analysis, or investigation has shown. It can also mean “to signify” or “to denote” when identifying a meaning or characteristic. Although “indicate” often implies that information points toward a conclusion rather than proving it outright, the distinction varies with context: a clear sign may indicate a fact effectively, while statistical findings generally support an inference. The verb is common in academic, governmental, commercial, and everyday English. It is useful because it conveys the act of drawing attention to information without necessarily claiming that the information is conclusive.
verbTo show, point out, or make something known. It can also mean to suggest that something is the case, often as the result of an inference from evidence.
- To show or make something known, especially by pointing to it or presenting information.
- To signify, denote, or mark a particular meaning, direction, or condition.
- To suggest or provide evidence for a conclusion or state of affairs.
"The survey results indicate a growing demand for sustainable products."
"A signpost near the junction indicates the route to the old town."
"The investigators indicated that the findings would be published later."
To indicate is to make the unseen visible: a gesture, a result, or a piece of evidence can point toward a conclusion.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indicate come from?
The verb comes from Latin indicare, “to point out, declare, or show,” formed from indīcere, “to state or declare,” with the prefix in- and dīcere, “to say or speak.” English borrowed the word in the early 17th century. Its relatives include indication, indicative, indicator, and indictment, although their meanings and grammatical forms have developed differently over time.
Related word forms
How indicate is actually used
Formal and widely used in British and American English. In its evidential sense, it commonly appears with that, these findings, the data, or a similar subject. The phrase 'I would indicate' is especially common in formal correspondence and professional reports.
Easily confused with indicate
To indicate is to point out or make something known, whereas to indict is to formally accuse someone of a crime.