Cool MateIndication vs That was the signal
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Indication
Top 1,000 (very common)B2noun
That was the signal
Top 2,000 (common)
Most common: Indication
| Indication | That was the signal | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ˌɪndɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˌɪndɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/ | 🇬🇧 //ðæt wəz ðə ˈsɪɡnəl//🇺🇸 //ðæt wəz ðə ˈsɪɡnəl// |
| Meaning | A sign or suggestion that something is true or might happen. | A signal is a sign to do something. |
| Example | The sudden drop in temperature is an indication that a storm is approaching. | When the bell rang, that was the signal for everyone to start the exam. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | B2 | - |
| Part of speech | noun | |
| Collocations | firm, good, strong, be, serve as, have, point to something, show something, suggest something, amid indications of, amid indications that…, indication as to, (all) the indications are that…, early indications are that…, preliminary indications are that… | give a signal, receive a signal, clear signal, signal to start, signal for help |
| Antonyms | confusion, ambiguity | - |
| Common mistakes | Confused with 'indicate' as a verb., Using 'indication' without a clear object or context., Mixing up 'indication' with similar-sounding words like 'indecision'. | Confused with 'sign'. 'Signal' is more specific., Using it in unrelated contexts, like referring to mere events., Overusing in casual conversations, it fits better in descriptive contexts. |
| Usage notes | Used in both spoken and written contexts. It's more common in formal discussions, such as reports or presentations. Avoid using it in very casual conversations. | Used in contexts where a cue is given. It is appropriate in both informal and formal settings. |
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Frequently asked questions: Indication vs That was the signal
What's the difference between Indication and That was the signal?
Indication: A sign or suggestion that something is true or might happen. That was the signal: A signal is a sign to do something.
Which is more common: Indication and That was the signal?
Indication is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Indication: The sudden drop in temperature is an indication that a storm is approaching. That was the signal: When the bell rang, that was the signal for everyone to start the exam.
Can I use Indication and That was the signal interchangeably?
Not always. Indication and That was the signal are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.