What does indicated mean?
“Indicated” is an adjective and a verb form meaning that something has been shown, marked, or made known. As an adjective, it describes information that is signalled or suggested by evidence: an indicated direction may be marked on a map, while research findings may be indicated by a measurable trend. It can also describe something selected or stated in an official context, as in “the indicated time” or “the person indicated by the committee.” As a verb, “indicated” is the simple past tense and past participle of “indicate,” meaning “show,” “point out,” or “make known.” The form is especially frequent in formal and technical writing, where it reports findings, instructions, or preferences. Its connotations are generally neutral, although it can suggest that something has been established by a sign or communicated indirectly. The word is useful because it can describe both concrete markers and conclusions inferred from evidence.
Marked, shown, or suggested by signs, evidence, or other information; sometimes selected or stated in a formal or official way.
"Follow the indicated route and report any unusual symptoms."
Common in formal, instructional, scientific, and official contexts.
The simple past tense and past participle of “indicate,” meaning to show, point out, or make something known.
"The survey indicated a clear preference for the later appointment."
The past form is particularly common in reports, academic writing, and formal announcements.
The word “indicate” comes from the same Latin root as “index,” originally a pointer whose extended finger showed the way.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indicated come from?
The word derives from Latin indicare, “to point out” or “indicate,” formed from indicium, “a sign or pointer,” and ultimately from the root in- and dicere, “to say.” The same development produced English “index,” Latin for “pointer” and originally “forefinger.” English “indication,” “indicative,” and “indicia” belong to the same Latin-derived family.
Related word forms
How indicated is actually used
“Indicated” is formal in many contexts, especially when referring to information, preferences, or instructions. As the past tense and past participle of “indicate,” it is especially common in reports, academic writing, presentations, and official notices.
Easily confused with indicated
“Indicated” is the past participle of “indicate,” whereas “indicative” is an adjective meaning suggestive or a grammatical mood.