a clear indication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear indication" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to express that something is obvious and understood. For example, "His facial expression was a clear indication that he was not happy with the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a clear indication of interfacial saturation.

Polymer

"This is a clear indication of racial profiling.

The New York Times

Ms. Hunter's presence was a clear indication of that.

The New York Times

And that is a clear indication of what's happening".

The Guardian - Sport

This is a clear indication that the rules have changed.

Harvard Business Review

The result is a clear indication that the differences are from additional eggs.

Princeton University

That is a clear indication of talent scarcity driving wage premiums for foreigners up.

Harvard University

These results give a clear indication of grain boundary kinetic roughening.

Acta Materialia

The catalytic probing showed the presence of synergistic effect, a clear indication of Pd-Pt mixing.

Catalysis Today

This is a clear indication that this material is potentially interesting for microwave device applications.

Acta Materialia

A clear indication of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) is observed in optical studies.

Electrochimica Acta

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clear indication" to introduce evidence or signs that strongly suggest a particular conclusion or outcome. For instance, "The rising crime rates are a clear indication that the current policies are ineffective."

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid relying too heavily on "a clear indication" in highly formal contexts. Opt for more precise and nuanced language, such as "demonstrates conclusively" or "provides irrefutable evidence", to enhance the sophistication and impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a clear indication" is to act as a noun phrase, serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies something that serves as evidence or a sign of something else. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

41%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clear indication" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that effectively serves to point out signs and evidence that support a particular conclusion. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts. While suitable for most writing styles, consider opting for more precise or formal synonyms in highly academic or scientific papers. The phrase is commonly found in news, scientific, and academic sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a definite sign

Replaces "indication" with "sign", emphasizing the visual or perceptible nature of the evidence.

a telling sign

Uses "telling" to highlight that the sign is revealing or significant.

an obvious signal

Substitutes "indication" with "signal", suggesting a deliberate or unintentional communication.

a distinct marker

Employs "distinct marker" to emphasize the clarity and uniqueness of the identifying factor.

a conspicuous clue

Replaces "indication" with "clue", implying that the sign aids in solving a puzzle or understanding a situation.

a strong signal

Uses "strong" to emphasize the potency and obviousness of the signal.

a palpable demonstration

Replaces "indication" with "demonstration", emphasizing the evidential character of something.

a manifest token

Employs "manifest token" to highlight the readily perceived or obvious character of the sign.

a transparent message

Substitutes "indication" with "message", emphasizing the clear and easily understood nature of the communication.

a plain demonstration

Uses "plain demonstration" to emphasize the straightforward and uncomplicated nature of the evidence.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear indication" in a sentence?

"A clear indication" introduces evidence or signs that strongly suggest a particular conclusion. For example, "The company's increased profits are "a clear indication" of successful strategies".

What are some alternatives to "a clear indication"?

You can use alternatives like "a definite sign", "a telling sign", or "an obvious signal" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "very clear indication"?

While not strictly incorrect, using "very clear indication" can be redundant because "clear" already implies a high degree of certainty. Consider using stronger synonyms or rephrasing the sentence for greater impact.

Can "a clear indication" be used in both formal and informal writing?

"A clear indication" is versatile and suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, in highly formal or academic contexts, consider using stronger or more precise alternatives to convey greater authority.