Encouraging sign

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Encouraging sign" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a positive indication or signal about a situation or outcome. Example: "The recent increase in sales is an encouraging sign for the company's future growth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

(Encouraging) Sign Of The Times.

Forbes

SOME RAYS OF HOPE APPEAR Supporters See Encouraging Sign of Veteran Leader's Diplomatic Skill.

The New York Times

It's a very encouraging sign".

The New York Times - Sports

That was an encouraging sign.

The New York Times

It's not an encouraging sign.

The New York Times

That is not an encouraging sign.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

There have been encouraging signs.

The Economist

Still encouraging signs.

The Guardian - Sport

But there have been encouraging signs.

The Economist

There are already encouraging signs.

The Guardian

The UN talks opened amid encouraging signs.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "encouraging sign", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being encouraged. For example, "The increase in renewable energy investments is an "encouraging sign" for climate change mitigation".

Common error

Avoid overstating the significance of an "encouraging sign". Recognize that it's just one piece of evidence and does not guarantee a particular outcome. Don't confuse a possibility with a certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "encouraging sign" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "encouraging" modifies the noun "sign". It describes something that indicates potential for a favorable outcome, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

10%

Sports

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Encouraging sign" is a common phrase used to express optimism about a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct and it’s applicable in diverse contexts, ranging from news and media to sports and scientific discussions. While it's a versatile phrase, it's important to consider alternative expressions like "positive indication" or "promising development" to fine-tune your writing. Remember not to overstate the significance of an "encouraging sign"; it's just one factor among many.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Positive indication

Focuses on the indication being positive, rather than the element of encouragement.

Promising development

Highlights the development as promising or hopeful.

Hopeful sign

Emphasizes the aspect of hope associated with the sign.

Auspicious signal

Uses a more formal term to describe the favorable nature of the signal.

Favorable indicator

Indicates a positive trend or direction.

Good omen

Conveys the idea of a sign predicting a positive future.

Welcome signal

Highlights the positive reception of the signal.

Uplifting trend

Shifts the focus to the trend being positive and inspiring.

Reassuring indication

Emphasizes the comforting nature of the indication.

Bright spot

Highlights the positive aspect within a potentially negative situation.

FAQs

How can I use "encouraging sign" in a sentence?

You can use "encouraging sign" to describe something that indicates a positive development or improvement. For example, "The company's increased sales figures are an "encouraging sign" for its future growth".

What's a good alternative to "encouraging sign"?

Alternatives include "positive indication", "promising development", or "hopeful sign", depending on the specific context.

Is "encouraging sign" formal or informal?

"Encouraging sign" is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. Its suitability depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and tone than the phrase itself.

What does it mean when someone says something is an "encouraging sign"?

It means that there's a reason to be optimistic about a particular situation because there are factors that suggest a positive outcome. It doesn't guarantee success, but it offers hope and motivation. It is similar to but subtly distinct from a "positive omen".