a positive indication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a positive indication" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a sign or signal that suggests something favorable or beneficial is likely to happen. Example: "The increase in sales this quarter is a positive indication of our marketing strategy's effectiveness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

"Or the strong broadcast upfront could be a positive indication for the entire media economy.

The New York Times

While a positive indication, the second quarter G.D.P. showed just how much the economy contracted last winter.

The New York Times

But Gandhi's philosophy makes me optimistic that this is a positive indication that we are closing in on the changes we are campaigning for.

The Guardian

"These figures, along with our continuing progress towards our access agreement targets for disadvantaged groups of students, are a positive indication that all our work is bearing fruit.

The Guardian

However, a recent commitment by the Somali government at the first ever national forum is a positive indication that things may finally be changing.

The Guardian

The case was sparked by an incident in which Release's executive director, Sebastian Saville was searched last year by the BTP at Camden Town underground station following a positive indication by a sniffer dog.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

A more positive indication of Tennyson's later beliefs appears in "The Ancient Sage," published in Tiresias and Other Poems (1885).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Speaking to the Guardian, Emmerson, who has also questioned the legality of US drone strikes, said: "President Obama's announcement that he will renew and redouble his efforts to close Guantánamo as soon as possible is a highly positive indication.

The Guardian

It is not the quick, acerbic win in the gladiatorial clashes of prime minister's questions that matters, but the maintenance of a constant, constructive engagement in the process of making laws, one that provides a clear, positive indication of what the Tories stand for.

The Economist

However, they represent a first positive indication.

European Transport Research Review

From the height vs time plot, there is a false positive indication of increase height right after landing.

ROBOMECH Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a positive indication", ensure that the indication is clearly linked to the outcome you are suggesting. Providing context strengthens the validity of the claim.

Common error

Avoid treating "a positive indication" as conclusive evidence. It's a sign, not a guarantee. Be cautious about drawing definitive conclusions based solely on this phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a positive indication" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI shows, it identifies a sign or signal suggesting a favorable outcome or development. The phrase acts to denote evidence that something is progressing well or is likely to succeed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

26%

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a positive indication" is a commonly used noun phrase that signals a favorable sign or development. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, including news, science, and business. While "a positive indication" suggests a good likelihood, it should not be mistaken for a guarantee, and its significance should be assessed within the broader context. Be aware of the potential for overstatement and maintain a balanced perspective when employing this phrase in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a promising sign

Emphasizes the potential for a favorable outcome; focuses on promise.

a good sign

A more general term indicating something favorable; lacks the formality of "indication".

an encouraging signal

Highlights the encouraging nature of the sign; more about motivation.

an optimistic outlook

Focuses on the overall perspective; more about expectation than direct evidence.

a hopeful sign

Implies a sense of hopefulness; less definitive than "indication".

a favorable development

Specifically refers to a change or event that is positive.

a bright prospect

Similar to optimistic outlook, focusing on the future potential.

a silver lining

Refers to a positive aspect in a negative situation.

grounds for optimism

Provides reasons for a positive outlook.

reason to be hopeful

Highlights the justification for hope, implying potential rather than certainty.

FAQs

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

Use "a positive indication" to suggest something favorable or beneficial is likely to happen. For instance, "The increase in sales this quarter is "a positive indication" of our marketing strategy's effectiveness".

What phrases can I use instead of "a positive indication"?

You can use alternatives like "a promising sign", "a good sign", or "an encouraging signal" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a positive indication" in formal writing?

Yes, "a positive indication" is appropriate for formal writing. It is often used in business, academic, and news contexts to describe a favorable sign or trend.

What's the difference between ""a positive indication"" and "a guarantee"?

"A positive indication" suggests a likelihood of something favorable, while "a guarantee" is a promise that something will definitely happen. The former is less definitive than the latter.