a sign of something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sign of something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is an indication or evidence of a particular situation, condition, or phenomenon. Example: "The sudden drop in temperature is a sign of the approaching winter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is surely a sign of something.

The Guardian

"Which may be a sign of something".

The New York Times - Arts

Is that mood change a sign of something more serious?

Harvard University

Although frightening, palpitations usually aren't a sign of something serious.

Harvard University

But recognition can be a sign of something more significant.

The New York Times

When is thumb-sucking a sign of something more?

The New York Times

But it's also a sign of something more momentous.

Independent

He uses food as a sign of something else.

The New Yorker

But it may be a sign of something more troubling.

The Economist

The drinking was a sign of something more.

The New York Times - Sports

"It could be a sign of something wrong".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sign of something" to introduce an interpretation or inference based on observed facts. For example, "The increasing demand for renewable energy is "a sign of something": a growing awareness of environmental issues."

Common error

Avoid using "a sign of something" when the connection is weak or speculative. Ensure there's a clear and logical link between the sign and what it indicates. Don't say something like, "My neighbor bought a new car, it's "a sign of something": the end of the world."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sign of something" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an appositive. Ludwig AI confirms its role in indicating that an observed event or phenomenon points to a larger or more significant underlying condition or development. Examples show that it is frequently followed by an explanation or interpretation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

12%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sign of something" serves as a versatile linguistic tool, predominantly functioning as a noun phrase to suggest that an event indicates a larger underlying issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and professional settings, with a neutral register. When employing this phrase, ensure there is a clear and logical connection between what is considered a sign and what it implies, avoiding overly speculative claims. Alternatives such as "an indication of something" or "a symptom of something" can be used to fine-tune the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an indication of something

Focuses on the act of pointing out or suggesting something without necessarily being a direct signal.

a symptom of something

Implies that the phrase is a manifestation of an underlying problem or condition.

a manifestation of something

Highlights the appearance or demonstration of something, often an abstract quality or condition.

a hint of something

Suggests a subtle or indirect indication, often requiring interpretation.

a signal of something

Emphasizes that it serves as a clear, intentional communication.

a mark of something

Indicates that phrase leaves an impression or evidence that is notable.

an emblem of something

It is symbolic representing something else.

a harbinger of something

Signifies a precursor or indicator of a future event or development.

a token of something

Implies that phrase is a symbolic representation.

a portent of something

Conveys that the phrase is a sign of a significant event.

FAQs

How can I use "a sign of something" in a sentence?

Use "a sign of something" to indicate that a particular event, object, or feeling suggests a larger trend, problem, or change. For example, "The decrease in student enrollment could be "a sign of something": a decline in the quality of education".

What are some alternatives to "a sign of something"?

You can use alternatives such as "an indication of something", "a symptom of something", or "a manifestation of something" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a sign of something"?

It's appropriate to use "a sign of something" when you want to suggest a deeper or more significant meaning behind a specific observation. Ensure that there is a logical connection between the observation and your interpretation.

What's the difference between "a sign of something" and "a cause of something"?

"A sign of something" indicates evidence or indication, while "a cause of something" means the direct reason or origin. For example, "The smoke was "a sign of something": a fire", while "The lightning was a cause of the fire".