a faint indication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a faint indication" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a subtle or weak sign of something, often in contexts where evidence or clarity is limited. Example: "The scientist noted a faint indication of a reaction occurring in the test tube, but further analysis was needed to confirm it."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In the SAED pattern of Figure 2d, only two diffraction planes, namely (100) and (101), are explicitly visible along with a faint indication of the (102) plane; other planes are not explicitly observed.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In contrast to a comparison of two prokaryote species (here there is a large literature on thermotolerant proteins), one a thermophile, and the other not, the authors find only a relatively faint indication of thermotolerance for these two eukaryotes.

Biology Direct

A faint linear indication of the smallest wire (0.1 mm) can be seen in the CNR + case and the second smallest wire (0.125 mm) in the CNR - case.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

While this round, which ended on August 7th after 13 hard-slogging days, produced some faint indication that small steps forward may be possible, the core issues seem as intractable as ever.A draft statement circulated by China, the host, inspired the most substantial discussions to date.

The Economist

He had noticed three tourists in bathing suits above us on the faint indications of a trail.

The New Yorker

There were faint indications this weekend that Syrian officials may still be interested.

The New York Times

The data were mixed, but investors were content with even faint indications of progress.

The New York Times

Not the faintest indication of a solitary hair has made its appearance on one or other of them and, as a consequence, his heart was sad".

The Guardian

The movie shows adults and children on a trip to a zoo; look closely and you'll see a faint shiver of pixels beneath a bobbing balloon, a haunting indication that someone has gone missing.

The New York Times - Arts

It rang a faint bell.

The New Yorker

I heard a faint voice.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a faint indication" when you want to express that something is only subtly suggested or weakly evident. It's ideal for situations where more concrete proof is lacking.

Common error

Avoid using "a faint indication" when the evidence is strong or clear. Overstating the subtlety can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a faint indication" functions as a noun phrase that includes an adjective ("faint") modifying the noun ("indication"). It describes something perceptible but not strong or clear. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

45%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a faint indication" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a subtle or weak sign of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts, especially in Science and News & Media. When using this phrase, be mindful not to overstate the significance of the indication. Consider alternatives like "a slight sign" or "a subtle clue" depending on the context. This phrase is a useful way to introduce uncertainty or preliminary observations in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight sign

This alternative uses 'sign' instead of 'indication', keeping the emphasis on a minimal observable cue.

a subtle clue

This alternative replaces 'indication' with 'clue', emphasizing the subtlety of the sign.

a hint of

Using 'hint' instead of 'indication' suggests a subtle and indirect suggestion.

a trace suggestion

This alternative highlights the minimal and suggestive nature of the indication.

a whisper of

Metaphorically describes the indication as something barely audible or noticeable.

a glimmer of evidence

This alternative offers the idea of faint evidence in more explicit way.

a tenuous signal

Highlights the fragility and potential unreliability of the indication.

a mild symptom

This alternative presents the phrase in more medical related context, where indication means symptom.

a distant echo

Presents the indication as a remnant or weak reflection of something else.

a veiled implication

Suggests the indication is present but not openly stated or obvious.

FAQs

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

You can use "a faint indication" to describe something subtle or weak. For example, "The experiment showed a faint indication of the reaction occurring."

What are some alternatives to "a faint indication"?

Alternatives include "a slight sign", "a subtle clue", or "a hint of". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "faint indication" or "weak indication"?

"Faint indication" and "weak indication" are quite similar, but "faint" often suggests something harder to perceive, while "weak" implies a lack of strength or power. Use the one that best fits the nuance you intend.

What does "a faint indication" imply about the evidence?

It suggests the evidence is not strong or definitive. Further investigation or evidence may be needed to confirm the initial observation.