Synonyms for

Indicative

Verb / ˌɪˈndɪkʌtɪv / Another word for indicative — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

serving as a sign or indication of something

Synonyms & similar words

revelatory indicativemood factmood declarative indicatory significative suggestive commonmood declarativemood suggestive evocative symbolic representative typical characteristic diagnostic identifying denotative designative exemplary illustrative meaningful significant telling expressive declarative assertive confirmatory positive

Synonyms by register

Formal

suggestive symbolic representative indicatory

Informal

showing pointing to a sign of

Literary

portentous augural

Antonyms

contradictory denying negative opposing refuting disproving

Common collocations

  • indicative of
  • indicative mood
  • indicative of a problem
  • indicative of change
  • indicative of trends
  • indicative of success

Word family

noun indication
adverb indicatively

Usage note

Often used with 'of' to show that something suggests or points to something else. Be careful not to confuse with 'indicator', which is a noun referring to a device or a person.

Example sentences

  1. The thermometer's reading was indicative of a high fever.
  2. The loud noise was indicative of a problem with the car engine.
  3. The teacher's tone of voice was indicative of her frustration with the students.
  4. The company's financial reports were indicative of a decline in profits.
  5. The long wait was indicative of a busy day at the restaurant.

Quotes

  • The signs of outstanding leadership appear primarily among the followers. Are the followers reaching their potential? Are they learning? Serving? Do they achieve the required results? Do they change with grace? Manage conflict?
  • The greatest thing in this world is not so much where we are, but in what direction we are moving.
  • The most important thing in life is not to capitalize on your gains. Any fool can do that. The really important thing is to profit from your losses. That requires intelligence; and makes the difference between a man of sense and a fool.

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