a signpost of which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a signpost of which" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific signpost or indicator that is part of a larger context or discussion. Example: "The report included several key findings, a signpost of which was the significant increase in user engagement."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We have a signpost of which way to go.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

I do not believe that it gave a signpost of that which would happen on Sept. 11.

The New York Times

As a prelude to the Symphonic Dances, the wistful Vocalise — which Tovey kept moving along — served as a signpost of the earlier, lusher Rachmaninoff manner.

Los Angeles Times

I.B.M.'s "Jeopardy!"-playing Watson computer, he said, is a signpost of what is possible.

The New York Times

For many people, language is a signpost of geography, class and education.

The New York Times - Magazine

The neighborhood Starbucks has been a signpost of prosperity and gentrification in New York.

The New York Times

This different evolutionary history can be used as a signpost of altered evolutionary pressure in a particular class of genes.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

They're looking for a real discussion of things you can work on, a signpost of insight about yourself.

WikiHow

I do not believe that it gave the signpost of that which would happen on Sept. 11.

The New York Times

Near the pedestrian crossing on the 15th fairway is a signpost with an array of arrows, one of which points to the Clos La Chance winery and another to the "beers for birdies" tent along the 17th hole.

The New York Times - Sports

Such a map is not a complete DNA sequence, which would be unnecessarily detailed, but rather a set of signposts, using which a geneticist can navigate his way around an animal's chromosomes.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a signpost of which" to clearly indicate that a particular sign or indicator is part of a larger set or system, providing context for its meaning or relevance.

Common error

Avoid using "a signpost of which" in simple sentences where a more direct phrase like "a sign" or "an indicator" would suffice. The phrase is most effective when connecting a specific signpost to a broader context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a signpost of which" functions as a relative clause, specifying a particular sign or indicator that belongs to a larger set or system. It adds detail and context to a broader discussion, providing a specific example from a collection of possibilities. Ludwig indicates its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a signpost of which" is a grammatically correct, though rarely used, relative clause that serves to specify a particular sign or indicator within a larger context. Ludwig confirms its usability. Its function is to highlight a specific element within a broader set, providing clarity and emphasis. While versatile across neutral registers, the phrase is most effective when connecting a specific signpost to a broader context, adding depth to complex ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a marker of which

Replaces "signpost" with "marker", emphasizing indication or identification.

an indicator of which

Substitutes "signpost" with "indicator", focusing on something that points out or shows something else.

a feature of which

Uses "feature" instead of "signpost", highlighting a characteristic element.

an element of which

Employs "element" to denote a basic component or aspect.

a component of which

Replaces "signpost" with "component", stressing that it forms part of a larger entity.

a characteristic of which

Uses "characteristic" to emphasize a distinguishing quality or trait.

an aspect of which

Substitutes "signpost" with "aspect", focusing on a particular side or view.

a hallmark of which

Replaces "signpost" with "hallmark", stressing a distinguishing or typical feature.

a clue of which

Uses "clue" to indicate something that serves as a guide or hint.

a symbol of which

Substitutes "signpost" with "symbol", highlighting something that represents something else.

FAQs

How can I use "a signpost of which" in a sentence?

Use "a signpost of which" to specify a particular sign or indicator that is part of a larger group or system, providing context for its significance. For example, "The report included several key findings, "a signpost of which" was the significant increase in user engagement."

What can I say instead of "a signpost of which"?

You can use alternatives like "a marker of which", "an indicator of which", or "a feature of which" depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct, "a signpost of which" or "a sign of which"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "A signpost of which" implies that the signpost is one of several indicators within a larger system or context, while "a sign of which" simply indicates that something is a sign or indication of something else.

What’s the difference between "a signpost of which" and "a signpost for which"?

"A signpost of which" indicates that the signpost is part of a larger group. "A signpost for which" implies the signpost directs you to something. The first indicates belonging while the second one purpose or direction.