a better sign

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a better sign" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing signs or indicators, suggesting that one is more favorable or positive than another. Example: "The increase in community engagement is a better sign of progress than the previous year's statistics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

But it would be a better sign if convictions had kept pace with allegations.

The Economist

"It's a better sign for the team, especially that it's not the end of the season.

The New York Times - Sports

Is there a better sign of periods finally going mainstream than a documentary about menstruation winning at the Oscars?

Columbia University

If your LDL is low, your C-reactive protein may be a better sign of impending heart trouble.

Harvard University

But it would have been a better sign of economic health if the unemployment rate had increased.

The New York Times

A better sign: These Knicks could tie the team record by winning their final six games — a distinct possibility, given the schedule.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

He held out for a better signing bonus, however, and did not enter the minor leagues until the 2000 season.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A better sign-up flow.

TechCrunch

Hodges said: "Dave Newton, my assistant, says I'll never make a better signing and he's probably right".

BBC

"Earlier the evergreen Richardson picked up another "five for", has there been a better signing for Worcestershire in the last five years?

BBC

"Tommy said 'you'll never make a better signing in the history of the club'," New Zealand Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah said.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a better sign", ensure you clearly define what the original or previous sign was for context and comparison.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a better sign" automatically guarantees a specific outcome; it merely suggests an increased likelihood or improvement, not a certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a better sign" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying an implied noun (e.g., situation, outcome). It expresses a comparative assessment, indicating that one sign or indicator is more favorable or promising than another. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a better sign" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate a more positive or promising indicator compared to a previous one. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across a range of contexts, including news, academia, and science. When using this phrase, it's essential to provide context by specifying what the original sign was. While it suggests improvement, avoid assuming it guarantees a specific outcome. Consider alternatives such as "a more promising indication" or "a more favorable signal" for slight variations in emphasis. Always be specific about what makes it a better sign.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a more positive indicator

Directly states the improved positivity of the indicator.

an improved indicator

Simply states that the indicator is better.

a more promising indication

Emphasizes the hopeful aspect of the sign.

a clearer indication

Highlights the improved clarity of the sign.

a more favorable signal

Highlights the positive nature of the signal.

a stronger signal

Indicates that the sign is more noticeable or impactful.

a more telling sign

Stresses that the sign is more revealing or significant.

a more encouraging development

Focuses on the positive progression suggested by the sign.

a more reliable gauge

Highlights the increased trustworthiness of the sign as a measure.

a more auspicious omen

Implies that the sign is a fortunate prediction.

FAQs

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

You can use "a better sign" to indicate an improved or more positive indicator of something. For example, "Increased sales are "a better sign" of economic recovery than consumer confidence surveys."

What's the difference between "a good sign" and "a better sign"?

"A good sign" indicates something positive, while "a better sign" implies a comparison, suggesting that one indicator is more favorable than another. For example, improved test scores might be "a better sign" of progress than simply maintaining the previous level.

Which is correct, "a good sign" or "a better sign"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but their usage depends on the context. Use "a good sign" when you want to say something is generally positive. Use "a better sign" when you are comparing two signs, and one is more positive than the other.

What can I say instead of "a better sign"?

Alternatives include "a more positive indicator", "a more promising indication", or "a more favorable signal", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.