a pointed sign

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pointed sign" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sign that is sharp, direct, or clear in its message or indication. Example: "The hiker followed a pointed sign that directed him towards the nearest campsite."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

There were those who refrained from applauding - a pointed sign of the resentment that remains from his testimony to the House Un-American Affains Committee in 1952.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

On Sunday, fans unfurled a sign with a pointed message: "Andy Quit.

The New York Times - Sports

In a pointed rebuke to John Hammond, who had signed Dylan to Columbia Records, some within the company referred to the singer as "Hammond's Folly" and suggested dropping his contract.

Wikipedia

Ruled by tigers (the outgoing zodiac sign) who promise to "build a harmonious forest" — a pointed jab at Hu Jintao's catchphrase — the rabbits suffer an endless series of abuses.

The New York Times - Magazine

In a pointed commentary segment on "GameDay" on Saturday, ESPN's Samantha Ponder referenced signs like this one while reporting that patience with Winston is wearing thin among Florida State's female fans.

Huffington Post

BAGHDAD — The Kurdish regional government released a pointed rebuttal on Monday to Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki's recent criticism of its policies, in a sign of growing fault lines between the Kurds and Iraq's central government.

The New York Times

A pointed scene in "L.I.E".

The New York Times

Maybe a pointed joke would help?

The New York Times

The remark was a pointed one.

The Guardian - Sport

W.T.: It's like a pointed bay.

The New Yorker

Then came a pointed follow-up.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a pointed sign" when you want to emphasize that a sign or indication is not subtle, but rather direct and easily understood. For greater clarity, specify what the sign is pointing to.

Common error

Avoid using "a pointed sign" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise and technical language may be preferred. Instead, opt for alternatives such as "significant indicator" or "clear signal".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pointed sign" functions as a noun phrase, where "pointed" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "sign". It describes a sign or indication that is direct, clear, and easily noticeable. Ludwig AI confirms this with examples where the phrase highlights obvious indications or messages.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

31%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a pointed sign" is a grammatically sound and relatively infrequent phrase used to describe a clear and direct indication. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase functions as a noun phrase emphasizing clarity and directness, suitable for neutral registers like news and general writing. While alternatives such as ""a clear indicator"" or ""an obvious signal"" might be more common, "a pointed sign" effectively communicates an unambiguous message or warning. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context aligns with its intended emphasis on directness and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a direct signal

Emphasizes the straightforwardness of the signal.

a clear indicator

Focuses on the clarity of the sign.

an obvious signal

Emphasizes the overt nature of the signal.

a distinct indication

Highlights the clear distinction of the indication.

an explicit clue

Highlights how the clue is fully and clearly expressed or demonstrated.

an unmistakable clue

Stresses the lack of ambiguity in the clue.

a telling symptom

Implies the symptom reveals significant information.

a suggestive symbol

Highlights the symbolic and hinting nature of the sign.

a conspicuous marker

Focuses on the sign's visibility and prominence.

a revealing gesture

Highlights that the sign is a movement expressing meaning.

FAQs

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

You can use "a pointed sign" to describe something that clearly indicates a particular situation or outcome. For example, "The drop in sales was "a pointed sign" that the company needed to change its marketing strategy".

What are some alternatives to "a pointed sign"?

Alternatives to "a pointed sign" include "a clear indicator", "an obvious signal", or "a distinct indication". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "a pointed sign" too informal for academic writing?

While "a pointed sign" is generally acceptable, it may be perceived as less formal. In academic writing, consider using more precise and technical terms such as "significant indicator" or "clear evidence".

What's the difference between "a pointed sign" and "a subtle sign"?

"A pointed sign" indicates a clear and direct indication, while "a subtle sign" implies an indication that is not immediately obvious and requires closer observation. The choice depends on whether the indication is overt or understated.