a straightforward indication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a straightforward indication" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to describe something that clearly shows or points out a particular fact or situation. Example: "The report provided a straightforward indication of the project's success, highlighting key metrics and outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

However, scores on the HAQ and QLQ-C30 do not provide a straightforward indication of the accuracy of the use of a mapping algorithm.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

Although the descriptors provided an overview of the cell sizes, shapes and positions within the sections, they did not provide a straightforward indication of the tissue that individual cells belong to.

eLife

While our results give a straightforward indication that the annotation criteria produced by the group at the Sanger Institute is more reliable than the TIGR, we do not exclude the possibility that this observation may be due to the fact that we performed our validation on a sample that represents only a small portion of the M. tuberculosis proteome.

BMC Genomics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Thus, detecting significant TMS-evoked cortical activations (primary neuronal currents) far away from the site of the initial perturbation provides a coarse, but straightforward, indication of effective connectivity (Paus, 2005).

Brain

The most straightforward indications, conceivably, come from experiments on abiogenic synthesis of organic molecules under supposedly realistic prehistoric atmosphere conditions and external energy sources, a research direction pioneered by Miller and Urey in the 1950s [ 14- 16].

Biology Direct

As Mr. Lelyveld notes, "in an age when the concept of Platonic love gains little credence," the romantic tone of their letters (including pet names) is likely to be read as indication of a straightforward homosexual intimacy.

The New York Times - Books

That came from a straightforward corner and was the first indication that, even with Vincent Kompany back from suspension, City were susceptible.

The Guardian - Sport

A straightforward sandwich cheddar.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A straightforward hold.

The Guardian - Sport

A straightforward win.

The Guardian - Sport

That's a straightforward game.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a straightforward indication", ensure that the context provides sufficient information for the indication to be easily understood. Avoid vague or ambiguous language that could undermine the clarity of the indication.

Common error

Avoid using "a straightforward indication" when the evidence is already overwhelmingly clear. Using the phrase in such cases can come across as redundant or condescending.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a straightforward indication" functions as a noun phrase that identifies something serving as clear and easily understood evidence or signal. Ludwig examples show this phrase used to describe readily apparent signs or results.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a straightforward indication" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe something that clearly and easily points to a particular fact or situation. Ludwig shows that it is most often found in scientific and news contexts. While it's relatively uncommon, according to Ludwig, the phrase is best used when aiming for clarity and avoiding ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "a clear sign" or "an unambiguous signal" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear sign

Emphasizes the visibility and ease of understanding of the indication.

an unambiguous signal

Highlights the lack of ambiguity or doubt in the indication.

a direct indication

Focuses on the straight line connection between the indication and what it signifies.

an explicit demonstration

Stresses the overt and clear nature of the indication, presenting it as a form of proof.

a plain indicator

Underlines the simplicity and ease of interpretation of the indication.

a telling symptom

Implies that the indication reveals something significant or underlying.

a revealing fact

Highlights that the indication uncovers or discloses important information.

a straightforward clue

Suggests the indication helps solve a puzzle or mystery.

an easy-to-read metric

Focuses on the indication being a quantifiable measurement that is simple to understand.

a readily apparent manifestation

Emphasizes how the indication is easily visible and understood as a result.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a straightforward indication" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "a clear sign", "an unambiguous signal", or "a direct indication" to maintain a professional tone.

What are some less formal alternatives to "a straightforward indication"?

For less formal situations, you might use "a clear sign" or "a plain indicator" to convey the same meaning in a more relaxed manner.

Is there a difference between "a straightforward indication" and "a clear indication"?

While both phrases are similar, "a straightforward indication" emphasizes the ease and simplicity of understanding the indication, whereas "a clear indication" simply highlights the clarity of the indication without necessarily implying ease of understanding.

When is it best to use "a straightforward indication" in writing?

Use "a straightforward indication" when you want to emphasize that something clearly and easily points to a particular fact or situation, leaving little room for misinterpretation.