1
Signal a condition
Act as an observable sign of something underlying.
Example
Uneven wear may be indicative of an alignment problem.
be indicative of
/bi ɪnˈdɪkətɪv əv/ · bee in-DIK-uh-tiv uvevidence phrase
Serve as a sign or suggestion of a condition or conclusion.
Use be indicative of to signal this exact relationship between ideas: serve as a sign or suggestion of a condition or conclusion.
What be indicative of Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Suggest a trend
Provide evidence consistent with a developing pattern.
Example
Rising deposits could be indicative of increased trade.
3
Support an interpretation
Point toward a conclusion without proving it alone.
Example
The repeated motif may be indicative of shared authorship.
Use be indicative of Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Uneven wear may be indicative of an alignment problem.
Rising deposits could be indicative of increased trade.
The repeated motif may be indicative of shared authorship.
Precision Matters
Be indicative of overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
be indicative of
vs.Signals serve as a sign or suggestion of a condition or conclusion.
as evidenced by
Means as shown or supported by the evidence that follows.
be indicative of
vs.Signals serve as a sign or suggestion of a condition or conclusion.
manifestation
Means an observable sign, expression, or form of something underlying.
be indicative of
vs.Signals serve as a sign or suggestion of a condition or conclusion.
be representative of
Means be typical of, or fairly reflect, a larger group or category.
be indicative of
vs.Signals serve as a sign or suggestion of a condition or conclusion.
prove
Means establish as true with sufficient evidence.
Test be indicative of in Context
The marks serve as a possible sign of increased use.
1
A sudden increase in repair marks may ___ heavier use of the building during its final decades.