Cool MateSign
UK /["/saɪn/"]/US /["/saɪn/"]/
Definition
an event, an action, a fact, etc. that shows that something exists, is happening or may happen in the future
In simple words: A symbol or action that shows something or gives information.
Examples
- Please follow the sign to reach the train station.
- He made a big sign to protest the policy.
- That was a clear sign that they were not interested.
- She will sign the contract tomorrow.
- Can you sign your name at the bottom of the page?
- The sign on the door said it was closed.
- Look for the sign indicating where to turn left.
- He decided to sign up for the cooking class.
Usage notes
Used in various contexts like directing people, indicating information, or marking something. More formal in legal contexts, and informal in everyday signage.
Grammar pattern
sign + object
Memory hint
Think of a 'sign' as a signal, like a road sign pointing you in the right direction.
Collocations
- classic
- clear
- definite
- bear
- have
- betray
- appear
- come
- indicate something
- at a/the sign
- sign from
- sign of
- sign of life
- a sign of the times
- a sign of things to come
- flashing
- illuminated
- neon
- erect
- hang
- hang out
- read something
- announce something
- proclaim something
- sign for
- sign to
- rude
- peace
- thumbs-up
- give (somebody)
- make
- communicate through
- language
- system
- sign for
- make the sign of the cross
- dollar
- euro
- pound
- draw
- use
- mean something
- sign for
- birth
- star
- astrological
- be born under
- sign of
- the signs of the Zodiac
Synonyms
- signal
- indication
- mark
- banner
- notice
Antonyms
- ignore
- disregard
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'sine' in mathematical contexts.
- Using 'sign' as a verb incorrectly, e.g., 'I will sign that paper' without indicating what or who to sign.
- Misusing 'sign' for 'symbol' when differentiating context.