a telling indicator that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a telling indicator that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to highlight a significant sign or piece of evidence that suggests a particular conclusion or insight. Example: "The increase in sales figures is a telling indicator that the new marketing strategy is working effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The Iranian regime's refusal to submit to intrusive inspections would be a telling indicator that it intends to continue its deception.

The Washington Post

In 2010, Hispanics were offered the option to select more than one race, but 37 percent opted for "some other race" — a telling indicator that the term itself is the problem.

The New York Times

In 2010, Hispanics were offered the option to select more than one race, but 37percentt opted for "some other race" -- a telling indicator that the term itself is the problem.

Huffington Post

Particularly tortured is the Census Bureau's designation, since 1970, of "Hispanic" as an ethnicity or origin, thereby compelling Hispanics to also choose a "race". In 2010, Hispanics were offered the option to select more than one race, but 37percentt opted for "some other race" -- a telling indicator that the term itself is the problem.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

One telling indicator that might not immediately come to mind is whether most of its citizens identify themselves as Democrats.

Forbes

The fact that he came to this program to play quarterback and never outwardly faltered in his belief that he was the best on the roster is a telling indicator of his confidence and that's a good indication that he'll handle the trials that lie ahead for him in the N.F.L. with poise, determination and a strong work ethic.

The New York Times

Linebacker Sam Cowart, who has just 44 tackles in five games, said he was still trying to find his comfort zone with the Jets' defense, a telling indicator of the unfamiliarity that has hindered the unit so far.

The New York Times - Sports

The idea that a boy from east London thought he could not travel to west London without a knife would be laughable if it were not a telling indicator of the impact that the sensationalising of violent crime is having on young people, males in particular.

The Guardian - Opinion

People say that culture is a telling indicator of the health of a community.

Huffington Post

The pattern — a rapid uptick in the number of children placed with foreign families, followed by an even more severe falloff after the Chinese government cracked down on traffickers — was "a very telling indicator that the orphanage was involved in trafficking," Mr. Stuy said.

The New York Times

Body language alone might prove a telling indicator.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a telling indicator that", ensure the indicator directly supports the claim you are making. It should provide clear and convincing evidence for your argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a telling indicator that" as absolute proof. It's an indicator, not irrefutable evidence. Acknowledge other potential factors or interpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a telling indicator that" functions as an introductory phrase. It introduces a piece of evidence or information that strongly suggests a particular conclusion. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a telling indicator that" is a grammatically sound phrase used to highlight significant evidence supporting a claim. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's most frequently found in news and media, with a neutral register suitable for analytical writing. While less common overall, the phrase effectively introduces insightful information. Remember to use it when the indicator truly supports your argument, avoiding overstatement of its significance. Alternatives like "a significant indication that" and "a clear sign that" offer similar meanings in varying contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a telling sign that

Removes the word "indicator" while retaining the core meaning.

a significant indication that

Replaces "telling" with "significant", emphasizing the importance of the indicator.

a key indicator that

Highlights the indicator's importance as a "key" factor.

a clear sign that

Uses "clear sign" instead of "telling indicator", focusing on the obviousness of the evidence.

a strong indication that

Replaces "telling" with "strong", highlighting the strength of the evidence.

an important signal that

Uses "important signal" instead of "telling indicator", stressing the significance of the message.

a revealing symptom that

Employs "revealing symptom" to suggest that the indicator uncovers something hidden.

a suggestive clue that

Substitutes "telling indicator" with "suggestive clue", implying a hint towards a conclusion.

a crucial piece of evidence that

Substitutes the term to underline indicator's evidentiary aspect.

a noteworthy manifestation that

Replaces "telling indicator" with "noteworthy manifestation", suggesting a visible display of something.

FAQs

How can I use "a telling indicator that" in a sentence?

Use "a telling indicator that" to introduce a piece of evidence that strongly suggests a particular conclusion. For example, "The company's increased investment in research and development is "a telling indicator that" they are committed to innovation".

What can I say instead of "a telling indicator that"?

You can use alternatives like "a significant indication that", "a clear sign that", or "a strong indication that", depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "a telling indicator that"?

While grammatically correct, "a telling indicator that" is best used when the indicator is genuinely noteworthy and supports a significant conclusion. Avoid using it for trivial or weak evidence.

What makes an indicator "telling"?

A "telling" indicator is one that provides significant insight or reveals something important about a situation. It's an indicator that speaks volumes about the underlying circumstances.