B1noun 1K

Signal

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈsɪɡnəl/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈsɪɡnəl/"]/

Meaning of Signal

a movement or sound that you make to give somebody information, instructions, a warning, etc.

In simple words: A sign or message that tells someone something.

Signal in a sentence

• The radio signal was weak, making it difficult to hear the news.
• He used a hand signal to direct the cars at the intersection.
• The scientist noticed a signal indicating a possible earthquake.
• When you see the green light, it’s a signal to go ahead.
• The team's victory was a signal of their hard work and dedication.
• Crows often signal danger to each other with loud caws.
• She received a signal from her friends to join them.
• In this context, the signal refers to an important message.
• He knew it was time to leave when he saw the signal from the boss.

How to use Signal

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. In technical settings, it may refer to electromagnetic signals or communication. Avoid in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

signal + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'sign' in a game, like a coach signaling for a play.

Related words

Collocations with Signal

• clear
• unmistakable
• agreed
• give (somebody)
• make
• send
• come from something
• indicate something
• at a signal
• on a signal
• signal for
• railroad
• railway
• traffic
• operate
• be on red/​green
• be red/​green
• fail
• box
• failure
• faint
• weak
• strong
• carry
• pass
• relay
• travel
• fade
• intensity
• strength
• signal from
• signal to
• clear
• unmistakable
• agreed
• give (somebody)
• make
• send
• come from something
• indicate something
• at a signal
• on a signal
• signal for

Synonyms for Signal

• sign

Opposites of Signal

• noise
• silence

Common mistakes with Signal

• Confused with 'sign' — remember 'signal' is an act of sending a message.
• Using the wrong preposition, e.g., 'signal to' instead of 'signal for'.
• Mispronunciation, often saying 'sig-nal' instead of 'sig-nuhl'.

Frequently asked questions about Signal

What does Signal mean?

A sign or message that tells someone something.

What is the definition of Signal?

a movement or sound that you make to give somebody information, instructions, a warning, etc.

How do you use Signal in a sentence?

The radio signal was weak, making it difficult to hear the news.

Can you give another example of Signal?

He used a hand signal to direct the cars at the intersection.

What are synonyms for Signal?

Common alternatives include sign.

What is the opposite of Signal?

Opposite meanings include noise, silence.

What words go with Signal?

It commonly pairs with clear, unmistakable, agreed, give (somebody), make, send, come from something, indicate something, at a signal, on a signal, signal for, railroad, railway, traffic, operate, be on red/​green, be red/​green, fail, box, failure, faint, weak, strong, carry, pass, relay, travel, fade, intensity, strength, signal from, signal to, clear, unmistakable, agreed, give (somebody), make, send, come from something, indicate something, at a signal, on a signal, signal for.

What are common mistakes when using Signal?

Confused with 'sign' — remember 'signal' is an act of sending a message. Using the wrong preposition, e.g., 'signal to' instead of 'signal for'. Mispronunciation, often saying 'sig-nal' instead of 'sig-nuhl'.

How do you pronounce Signal?

US: /["/ˈsɪɡnəl/"]/, UK: /["/ˈsɪɡnəl/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Signal?

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. In technical settings, it may refer to electromagnetic signals or communication. Avoid in very casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Signal?

"Signal" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.