indicative
What does "indicative" mean?
The word "indicative" describes something that acts as a sign, symptom, or pointer toward a particular state or fact. Think of a weather vane spinning to show the direction of the wind; it is "indicative" of the wind's current path. It is used to suggest that a hidden truth or future outcome is likely based on current evidence. In usage, it is most commonly followed by the preposition "of." It carries a formal, analytical tone, often appearing in professional reports, academic discussions, or serious conversation. It implies a logical connection between an observed action and a deeper meaning, such as saying a person's silence is indicative of their disagreement.
"indicative" in conversation
Work performance review
Your recent project results are indicative of your growth in leadership.
Your recent project results are indicative of your growth in leadership.
Thank you, I've been working hard to improve my communication.
Thank you, I've been working hard to improve my communication.
Used to link a specific observation to a broader positive trend.
Discussing a sudden market shift
This drop in sales is indicative of a cooling economy.
This drop in sales is indicative of a cooling economy.
Should we be worried about our investments?
Should we be worried about our investments?
Commonly used in professional contexts to interpret data or symptoms.
"indicative" in a sentence
The red sky is indicative of a clear day tomorrow.
The red sky is indicative of a clear day tomorrow.
His nervous behavior was indicative of his underlying anxiety about the presentation.
His nervous behavior was indicative of his underlying anxiety about the presentation.
The widespread decline in biodiversity is indicative of a much larger, systemic failure in our environmental policy.
The widespread decline in biodiversity is indicative of a much larger, systemic failure in our environmental policy.
