Cool MateIndicator
UK /["/ˈɪndɪkeɪtə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈɪndɪkeɪtər/"]/
Definition
a sign that shows you what something is like or how a situation is changing
In simple words: Something that shows or points out a condition or situation.
Examples
- The economic indicators are better than expected.
- These atmospheric waves are a reliable indicator of weather changes.
- Gold prices are often seen as an indicator of inflation.
- Level of education is actually a poor indicator of ability to run a business well.
- The stock market is seen as a leading indicator of economic growth.
- These warts can serve as an indicator of other infections.
- a depth indicator
- Her right-hand indicator was flashing.
- He flicked on his indicator light and passed the lorry.
Usage notes
Used in both formal and informal contexts to refer to signs or signals of something. Avoid using in overly casual speech.
Grammar pattern
indicator + of + noun
Memory hint
Think of an 'indicator' as a 'sign' that tells you where to go — like a road sign.
Collocations
- accurate
- good
- reliable
- be
- serve as
- provide (somebody with)
- point to something
- show something
- suggest something
- indicator for
Synonyms
- sign
- signal
- gauge
- pointer
- marker
Antonyms
- misleading sign
- confusion
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'indicator' with 'indicator light' which is a more specific term.
- Using 'indicate' as a noun instead of 'indicator'.
- Mistaking it for a verb and using it incorrectly in sentences.