What does indication mean?
Indication is a noun meaning a sign, clue, or piece of evidence that something is present, has happened, or is likely to happen. It is commonly used with phrases such as “an indication of” and “an indication that,” as in “There was no indication that the storm would reach the coast.” The word can also mean a suggestion or implication drawn from available information rather than a proven fact. In medicine, an indication is a condition or circumstance for which a treatment is considered appropriate; saying that a drug is indicated for a disorder means that the disorder falls within its recommended uses. Because an indication may point toward a conclusion without proving it, the word often conveys cautious inference. It is useful when describing evidence, tentative signs, practical recommendations, or reasons suggesting that something is happening.
nounA sign, clue, or piece of evidence that suggests the presence, existence, or likely direction of something. In medicine, an indication is a condition or circumstance for which a particular treatment is considered appropriate.
- A sign or piece of evidence suggesting that something is present, has happened, or is likely to occur.
- A suggestion or implication conveyed by an observation, circumstance, or piece of information.
- In medicine, the condition or circumstance for which a drug, procedure, or other treatment is considered appropriate.
"The faint discoloration was the first indication that the fruit had begun to spoil."
"There was no indication that the negotiations were close to agreement."
"The specialist reviewed the patient's symptoms and identified several indications for further testing."
The plural is used for separate signs or pieces of evidence, or collectively for signs that point toward a particular conclusion.
"Early indications suggest that the policy will have a significant effect on small businesses."
An indication is literally a pointer: the word comes from Latin indicare, meaning “to point out” or “show.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indication come from?
Indication comes from Latin indicatio, a noun derived from indicare, meaning “to point out” or “show.” The English word developed through the language's use of Latinate derivations and has long conveyed the senses of a sign, a pointing out, or a suggestion. Its relatives include indicate, index, and indicative, all associated with the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How indication is actually used
“Indication” is used in both formal and neutral contexts. In general use, the singular often denotes a single sign, while the plural can suggest accumulating evidence or a pattern. The medical sense is more specialized and should not be confused with a possible side effect.